People
Who they are
The Réunion Creoles live mainly on the island of Réunion, a French territory in the Indian Ocean, and there is also a community in Madagascar. They speak a French-based creole that developed on the island with contributions from French, Malagasy, African and Indian people.
Creole is the everyday language used with family and friends. French is important at school and at work, and Creole is also taught in schools and studied at the island’s university.
Where they live
2
Countries
659K
World population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Réunion Partially reached
|
79.8%
|
521.000 |
Madagascar Partially reached
|
20.2%
|
132.000 |
How they live
Creole cuisine blends French influences, curries and African flavors. Cari is a stew made with meat, fish or vegetables, and rougail is a spicy preparation served with meals. Maloya is music, singing and dance brought by enslaved people from East Africa and Madagascar. On the sugar plantations, it expressed their pain and resistance and was linked to ceremonies honoring deceased family members. Since the 1970s, it has become part of public life and is now sung and danced on stage.
What they believe
The vast majority are Christians, mostly Catholics, with an Evangelical presence. Churches are full on Sundays and Catholic feast days. Along the roads, small altars painted red are dedicated to Saint Expeditus, who is believed to have the power to resolve difficult situations quickly. Many households also maintain what is known as the Malagasy service, which honors deceased family members.
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.
Reunion Creole French
Portions translated
- Translation started Done
- Portions Current stage
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)95%
Evangelicals7.6%
Needs
Some adults who grew up speaking only Creole have difficulty writing in French. Those who struggle with this have fewer job opportunities and need help with everyday paperwork. Bible teaching needs simple words and the language spoken at home. At present, only portions of the Bible are available in Réunion Creole.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for Creole-speaking adults who need help with reading and writing.
Pray for the Bible in Réunion Creole, currently available only in portions.
Pray for Catholics and Evangelicals in Réunion to know Jesus personally.
Pray for the churches of Réunion and of the community in Madagascar.
Pray for families who maintain the Malagasy service to find peace and hope in Christ.
Pray for Réunion Creole
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar