Sama, Southern in Philippines

People Name:	Sama, Southern
Country:	Philippines
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	271,000
World Population:	291,000
Primary Language:	Sama, Southern
Primary Religion:	Islam
Christian Adherents:	0.06 %
Evangelicals:	0.06 %
Scripture:	Portions
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Filipino, Muslim
Affinity Bloc:	Malay Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction

The Southern Sama live on the Tawi-Tawi islands in the Philippines, just to the southwest of Mindanao. A smaller number live in Malaysia. Some have assimilated into the Filipino culture, attending schools and working in small businesses within local cities as vendors. The Southern Sama are known for their traditional dances, songs, percussion and xylophone music, dyed mats and food covers, and wood carvings. The Southern Sama are an Islamic people group, following the Sunni traditions while mixing them with elements of animism. They believe that the spirits of the dead remain in the vicinity of their graves, requiring expressions of continued concern from the living. They have reported that some of these graves are the source of miracle-working power. Christians, primarily Catholics, have reached out to help these people in the areas of health and education.

Ministry Obstacles

The Southern Sama and other Muslim groups in the Philippines often hold animosity towards Filipino Christians. Who will be Christ’s best ambassadors?

Outreach Ideas

Pray for the Followers of Christ

Pray for the Entire People Group

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Southern Sama teachable and understanding hearts.
Pray for Southern Sama families to encounter Jesus and experience his love.
Pray for the Christian believers who work among the Southern Sama to be encouraged and persevere.