Introduction / History

The area settled by Croats has a large diversity of historical and cultural influences, as well as diversity of terrain and geography. The coastland areas of Dalmatia and Istria were subject to Roman Empire, Venetian and Italian rule; central regions like Lika and western Herzegovina were a scene of battles against the Ottoman Empire and have strong epic traditions. In the northern plains, Austro-Hungarian rule has left its marks.

The post-war (1995) government's policy of easing the immigration of ethnic Croats from abroad encouraged a number of Croatian descendants to return to Croatia. After the war's end in 1995, most Croatian refugees returned to their previous homes, while some (mostly Croat refugees from Bosnia-Herzegovina and Janjevci from Kosovo) moved into the formerly held Serb apartments. Some of them remain in foreign countries like France. There still is a notable Croat diaspora in the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Western Europe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In France the Croats have maintained a strong, distinctive culture and sense of national identity. The most distinctive features of Croatian folklore include klapa ensembles of Dalmatia, and tamburitza orchestras of Slavonia. Folk arts are performed at special events and festivals, perhaps the most distinctive being Alka of Sinj, a traditional knights' competition celebrating the victory against Ottoman Turks. The epic tradition is also preserved in epic songs sung with gusle. Various types of kolo circular dance are also encountered throughout Croatia.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The vast majority of Croats are Roman Catholic, and the church has had a significant role in fostering of the national identity. The confession played a significant role in the Croatian ethnogenesis.

What Are Their Needs?

The Croats need to put their faith in Jesus Christ rather than anything else.

Prayer Points

Pray the Croats in France will put their faith in the person of Jesus Christ rather than any religious institution.

Pray for Croat disciples to make more disciples.

Pray for a spiritual revival among the Croats that will bless them in every way.

Pray for spiritual hunger.

Scripture Prayers for the Croat in France.