People
Who they are
The Kinaray-a are an indigenous people originating on the island of Panay in the central Philippines, living mainly in the province of Antique and neighboring parts of Iloilo. Their mother tongue, Kinaray-a, has rich poetic traditions and is one of the oldest languages of the Visayas archipelago.
They maintain strong ties to their ancestral lands and community life and are known for their traditional music, oral storytelling and cooperative spirit that unites neighbors and families in every village.
Where they live
1
Country
664K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Philippines Significantly reached
|
100%
|
659.000 |
How they live
Most Kinaray-a families depend on agriculture and fishing. Rice grown on terraces and plains, corn and sugarcane support daily life, supplemented by coastal and river fishing. Important decisions and agricultural work often follow the local tradition of neighbors helping one another. Meals bring together fresh fish, rice and root vegetables at family gatherings marked by generous hospitality.
What they believe
The Christian faith has been part of this people’s life for centuries, expressed mainly through religious celebrations and festivals honoring local patron saints. However, ancestral beliefs in the unseen world remain influential: many still fear nature spirits, seek traditional healers and perform rituals to ward off harm, blending formal Christianity with longstanding animist customs.
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.
Kinaray-A
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)99%
Evangelicals13%
Needs
Rural and coastal communities face frequent typhoons and floods that destroy crops and homes, causing economic instability and driving young people to migrate to large cities. Resources for sound theological training are scarce, and there is a need for discipleship that helps families live out an authentic Christian faith free from spiritual fears inherited from the past.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo aprofundamento bíblico das igrejas locais entre os kinaray-a.
Pela libertação do medo dos espíritos e de práticas animistas tradicionais.
Por oportunidades econômicas sustentáveis e proteção contra tufões e desastres naturais.
Pelo treinamento de líderes e pastores para discipular as novas gerações.
Por testemunho vibrante dos crentes kinaray-a junto aos seus vizinhos.
Pray for Kinaray-a
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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