People
Who they are
The Yela live in forested areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, mainly in Bokungu Territory in Équateur Province, and also in the Kasai-Oriental region. They are a Bantu people, and their language, Yela, is very close to Kela, spoken in Kasai. They live in independent villages, each led by a member of the oldest family. Most tend small plots or grow crops for sale, and many are leaving farming to look for work in towns and cities.
Where they live
1
Country
151K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Congo - Kinshasa Partially reached
|
100%
|
146.000 |
How they live
Yela families make a living from small plots or crops grown for sale, but many people are leaving farming to look for work in cities and towns. The Yela are known for carving elaborate masks used in a secret society called Ekanga.
What they believe
Most Yela say they follow Catholicism but still practice animist rituals, that is, rituals linked to belief in spirits that inhabit nature and particular places. Christian identity and these rituals coexist among the same people.
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.
Yela
Need not assessed
- 1 Translation started Still ahead
- 2 Portions Still ahead
- 3 New Testament Still ahead
- 4 Whole Bible Still ahead
Translation has not started in this language yet.
Audio recordings Not available
Jesus Film Not available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)96%
Evangelicals7%
Needs
The Yela do not appear to have any translation of the Bible in their own language, and most encounter the Christian faith only through Catholicism. Those who leave their villages to work in towns and cities need to find a Christian community that will welcome and teach them.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pray for Bible stories to be translated into Yela so that the people can hear and know the truth.
Pray that the Yela will hear, understand and hold on to the message of the gospel.
Pray for the Yela who leave their villages to work in towns and cities, that they will find churches and Christians who welcome them.
Pray for the Yela who say they follow Catholicism but still practice animist rituals, that they will come to know Jesus personally.
Pray for Yela
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar