People
Who they are
The Lele Bashilele live in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in the Kasai River region, especially in the Ilebo and Tshikapa areas. Also known as the Lele or Usilele, they are a Bantu-speaking people closely related to the Kuba. Many have moved to Kinshasa since the 1950s.
In the 1950s, Mary Douglas studied Lele villages. At that time, farming and the production of raffia cloth, made from palm fiber, were very important. Cloth was also given as gifts among family members.
Where they live
1
Country
143K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Congo - Kinshasa Partially reached
|
100%
|
138.000 |
How they live
In the 1950s, Lele women grew corn and cassava, and men saw themselves above all as hunters. They spent much of their time weaving and sewing cloth made from raffia palm fiber. Gifts of cloth eased relationships: they served as peace offerings after disagreements, farewell gifts and signs of respect from young people to their parents and uncles. Clans, groups of families with a common origin, extended across several villages and traced descent through the mother’s line.
What they believe
Most Lele identify as Christian, particularly Catholic. Some still maintain traditional religious practices and spiritual fears. During a visit in 1987, anthropologist Mary Douglas documented an account of a movement against witchcraft led by two Catholic priests in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
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.
Lele (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
New Testament complete
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Current stage
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)96%
Evangelicals7%
Needs
Many Lele are familiar with church life but need a stronger, personal faith in Jesus that goes beyond being Christian in name. There is a shortage of pastors, evangelists and leaders who teach the Scriptures clearly. Some people still live with fears connected to traditional practices.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for the use of the New Testament in Lele in families and churches.
Pray for the training of Lele pastors who teach the Scriptures clearly.
Pray for Lele Christians to be firm in their faith in Jesus and free from the fear of witchcraft.
Pray for Lele Catholic and evangelical communities, that each person may have a living, personal faith in Jesus.
Pray for Lele Bashilele
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar