Introduction / History

The Epera people also go by the names Emberá or Embir. They are part of the larger Embera people who live in the region and also in Panama. Their language is part of the Chocoan family of languages. The Epera live in western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though small in number, the Epera people have their own unique art and dance forms. They have a keep knowledge of their natural environment since their lives depend on it. For example, they know how to use local plants for medicinal purposes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Epera people, especially in Colombia, adhere to their own traditional religion. Those in Ecuador are partly Christianized by Roman Catholics.

What Are Their Needs?

Like many peoples in this region, the Epera tribe has been fighting a constant battle to keep their homeland from being overrun by outsiders who want to use up the resources. Their land is in danger of being destroyed by outsiders. The Epera people are doing all they can to preserve their culture and way of life.

Prayer Points

Pray for Epera culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit and shaped into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among their family and community leaders to seek his face and enjoy his blessings.

Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a disciple making movement among the Epera people.

Pray that soon the Epera people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the savior.

Scripture Prayers for the Epera in Colombia.