People
Who they are
The Forest Bira live in the Ituri region of the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. They are also known as the Bila and are among the Bantu-speaking peoples. Their language, Bila, is also spoken by Mbuti communities living in the same area. These peoples have a long history of living alongside one another, linked to farming and food from the forest.
Where they live
1
Country
111K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Congo - Kinshasa Partially reached
|
100%
|
108.000 |
How they live
The Bira are farmers, and their villages are close to Mbuti communities who hunt in the forest. According to a study published in 2003 on the Mbuti and their farming neighbors, the Mbuti usually receive crops in exchange for meat or work in the fields. In this way, farming and hunting complement each other in the life of the region.
What they believe
Most Forest Bira follow their own traditional religions. A significant proportion also identify as Christians, and there is a small Muslim minority. This diversity calls for care in Christian teaching and respect in relationships between families of different faiths.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Bila
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)41%
Evangelicals6%
Needs
Teaching the Scriptures in Bila and caring for Christians among their own people are priorities for prayer. Churches need people trained to explain the gospel clearly and support families who want to follow Jesus. Most books of the Bible still need to be translated into Bila, and this work deserves support and prayer.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the work of translating the Scriptures into Bila, so that more books reach Bira families.
Pray for the faith of Bira Christians, that they will grow in their knowledge of Jesus and in love for their neighbors.
Pray for people in Bira churches to be trained to teach the Bible in their own language.
Pray for the gospel to be communicated clearly to Bira families who follow traditional religions.
Pray for Forest Bira
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar