Text source: Joshua Project Introduction / History Hindu Gaderia have virtually abandoned their traditional occupation of rearing sheep and goats. They live in northern India, especially Uttar Pradesh. What are their lives like? They are now mainly engaged as laborers in masonry work, while a small number is involved in animal husbandry. The Brahmin are engaged for performing at birth, marriage and death rites and for imparting religious teachings. What are their beliefs? The Gaderia people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.
Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday. What are their needs? Low literacy rates can potentially be an obstacle to the gospel. They can understand the gospel when workers use oral means. Christian workers need to carry the message of Christ to the Gadaria community using stories from scripture, as well as gospel recordings and films. Prayer Points Pray for the Lord to prepare evangelists, teachers and pastors and also provide Scriptures and other study materials for new Gaderia believers.
Pray that Hindus Gadaria will have teachable hearts.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to work powerfully through those ministering to this people group leading to a movement to Christ.
Pray for the Gadaria community to be able to care well for their families, especially the widow and orphans. References https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gadaria View Gadaria (Hindu traditions) in all countries.
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