Sindhi Sumra of PakistanThe Sumra is a Muslim community of Gujarat named after Samara, a place in Iran, where their ancestor Mohamed Haneef Ali had settled. They had migrated to Kutch and then to Saureshtra in Sindh. Stories of their migration are recalled in their folk lore and oral traditions. Traditionally, they were warriors but at present they are involved in business, agriculture, government and private service. Marriages between first cousins are preferred. Widow remarriage is allowed. The marriage rituals start with a betrothal ceremony at the bride's residence as per Islamic traditions. The dead are buried and Ziarat is performed for three days. The Sumra belong to the Sunni sect of Islam.Ministry ObstaclesThe culture and religion of most Muslim groups is tightly bound together. To change religion is like tearing apart your cultural identity.Outreach IdeasThere are a wealth of good resources available in the Sindhi language, including a full Bible. Pray for workers to take these to the people.Pray for the followers of ChristAlthough there are no known followers of Jesus among the Sumra today, please pray for the many who will soon come to saving faith. They will need prayer support. Pray they will be like seed falling onto fertile ground, producing a bountiful crop.Pray for the entire people groupPray the Muslim Sumra will be increasingly drawn to the man Isa (Jesus) as they study the Koran. Pray they will desire to learn more about Him, and that this desire will be satisfied as the Lord reveals Himself to them.Scripture Focus"Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, and the very ends of the earth as Your possession." Psalm 2:8
_________________SI Moderator - Greg Gordon