People
Who they are
The Karelians are a Finno-Ugric people native to the boreal forests and lakes of the Karelia region, in northwestern Russia and eastern Finland. Known for their rich oral traditions and folk songs that inspired the epic Kalevala, they possess an identity strongly tied to rural life, fishing, and woodworking. They face the constant challenge of preserving their mother tongue and cultural heritage amid modernization.
Where they live
5
Countries
45K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Russia Partially reached
|
70.5%
|
32.000 |
Finland Partially reached
|
24.2%
|
11.000 |
Ukraine Superficially reached
|
2.6%
|
1.200 |
Belarus Partially reached
|
2%
|
900 |
Kazakhstan Superficially reached
|
0.7%
|
300 |
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.
Russian
Complete Bible
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Done
- Whole Bible Current stage
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Karelian
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Not available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)63.9%
Evangelicals5.1%
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
For spiritual revitalization and for a living, transformative faith among the Karelians.
For the strengthening and unity of small churches serving in the most isolated villages.
For the availability and use of Christian literature in the Karelian language to reach the younger generations.
For the raising up of local leaders committed to biblical discipleship and service to their people.
Pray for Karelian
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar