Introduction / History

The Tumbalala live in Bahia on the banks of the São Francisco River. Bahia is on the eastern edge of Brazil.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Tumbalala are trying to remain free and independent. They want their culture to survive, but almost all now speak Portuguese, Brazil’s trade language. They are in a constant battle to keep their land free from squatters and cattle ranchers. Some think they should be integrated into Brazilian society rather than restore their culture.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Tumbalala people have ritual dances and chants where they invoke mother nature as a part of their ethnic identity. They make offerings of necklaces, plants and fruit. They also have a Roman Catholic influence, but their traditional religion is what captures their hearts.

What Are Their Needs?

The Tumbalala need to put all their faith in Jesus Christ. He needs to be their everything.

Prayer Points

Pray for justice and mercy for the Tumbalala people of Brazil.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move in Tumbalala communities leading them to put Jesus Christ first in their lives.
Pray for the Tumbalala people who love and honor Jesus Christ to disciple others in his ways.

Scripture Prayers for the Tumbalala in Brazil.

References

https://pib.socioambiental.org/en/Povo:Tumbalal%C3%A1
https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/democraciaabierta/pataxo-brazil-indigenous-women/
https://www.brazzil.com/6681-brazils-potiguara-and-tumbalala-indians-protest-against-demarcation-delay/