People
Who they are
The Makasai are one of the main ethnolinguistic groups of eastern Timor. Unlike most neighboring peoples, who speak languages of Austronesian origin, the Makasai preserve a language with Papuan roots that continues to be passed down vigorously through the generations. Deeply rooted in their homeland, they maintain a strong attachment to their mountains, hills and coastal villages, where oral tradition and loyalty to the community remain pillars of their rich cultural heritage.
Where they live
1
Country
148K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Timor-Leste Partially reached
|
100%
|
146.000 |
How they live
Daily life in Makasai villages revolves around subsistence farming, growing corn, cassava, rice and vegetables, as well as raising pigs and buffalo. Work on the land follows the rhythm of the rains and depends on mutual assistance among relatives. Elders are involved in community decisions, and family honor is expressed through participation in wedding ceremonies and rites of passage that bring entire villages together.
What they believe
Although the overwhelming majority profess Christianity, ancestral religious practices still exert a strong influence on daily life. Reverence for sacred houses and fear of the anger of ancestral spirits often coexist with church rituals. The central challenge is the transition from nominal faith to a personal, transforming relationship with Christ.
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.
Makasae
Translation started
- Translation started Current stage
- 2 Portions Still ahead
- 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)92%
Evangelicals2.5%
Needs
Many rural communities face geographical isolation, shortages of drinking water during the dry season and limited access to basic health and education services. Spiritually, there is a lack of authentic discipleship and trained pastoral leadership to help the people place their hope exclusively in Jesus Christ.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo aprofundamento bíblico das famílias makasai, para que conheçam a graça libertadora do evangelho.
Por recursos e porções bíblicas claras e acessíveis na língua makasae.
Pelo fortalecimento e maturidade dos cristãos evangélicos locais no testemunho de sua fé.
Pela libertação espiritual do medo associado aos rituais tradicionais e aos espíritos ancestrais.
Pelo desenvolvimento de oportunidades de estudo e saúde para as comunidades rurais do interior.
Pray for Makasai
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar