Latvian in Belarus

People Name:	Latvian
Country:	Belarus
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	900
World Population:	1,463,500
Primary Language:	Latvian, Standard
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	58.00 %
Evangelicals:	7.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Baltic
Affinity Bloc:	Eurasian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Latvians (also called Letts) have their own language and culture that sets them apart from their neighbors, the Estonians, Lithuanians and Russians. Their ancestors lived in modern Latvia 3,000 years ago. Their language, Latvian, has been a separate language since the 800s. It is part of the Baltic-Finnic sub-branch of the Uralic language family. Genetically, they are similar to the neighboring Lithuanians.

Latvian history is defined by being controlled by Germans from the West and Russians from the East. They had their independence after WWI but lost it when the USSR engulfed and forced them to become one of the Soviet Socialist Republics. They regained their independence in 1991 when the USSR dissolved.

The Latvian diaspora has representatives in 21 countries, mostly former Soviet states and countries in Western Europe and North America. Many left Latvia in the early 1900s; more left after WWII and the Soviet occupation. A small number are in Belarus; their numbers are small enough that there is little information about them.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Latvians have their own cuisine, including pork stew with carrots and potatoes. They also have their own forms of song and dance. Latvian folk costumes feature a Latvian belt and a wide sash with a woven geometric pattern.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Qabiao are animists. They believe a person has eight souls and nine spirits. These souls and spirits govern their existence and guide their activities. These beliefs shape the entire life and worldview of the Qabiao. The most revered place in a Qabiao home is the altar, reserved for three generations of ancestors. Each generation is symbolized by a small sandstone jar. They believe a dried pumpkin and a bundle of oxtail hair attached to a stick enable the ancestors to recognize their descendants.PRGRPHMany Qabiao customs are directed at preserving their unique culture, which makes it difficult for the gospel to reach their minds with the message of the Savior. At funerals the Qabiao offer prayers to the soul of the dead person. They read texts reflecting the Qabiao concept of the universe, of mankind and of their community. Some legends include a great flood in the past; the only survivors were a few who hid in a giant hollowed-out pumpkin. This may be one key to introducing the gospel message to the unreached Qabiao.

What Are Their Needs?

The Qabiao people need to submit to Jesus Christ so they can experience the abundant life he offers in John 10:10.

Prayer Points

Pray for Latvians to draw closer to the Lord, seek his face, and obey his ways.
Pray for a Christ-centered revival in all Latvian church traditions.
Pray that soon, Latvian disciples will make more disciples wherever they live.