British, English in New Zealand

Introduction / History

The ancestors of the British were the Celts who lived in the British Isles. They were also called “Britons.” At that time, the Romans, who controlled their land for 200 years, called it Inglaterra,” which became England. The British sense of nationhood developed later than one might expect. The Union of Crowns in 1603 merged England with Scotland. The Kingdom of Great Britain formed in 1707, but their identity was superimposed over earlier ones.

The English forged a stronger identity through the development of the British Empire, which started in the late 1500s. Their collection of colonial holdings became the largest empire in the world. It became especially powerful when they asserted domination through naval power in the 1800s. By 1913, the English ruled over one-fourth of the world’s population. It was during this time that the English began to settle all over the globe. Today, the English live in 126 countries, including New Zealand, a nation that was settled by the British starting in 1840.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Around the world, including New Zealand, the British are usually urban. They blend in well with the New Zealander population. Both groups enjoy the same sports such as cricket, soccer, and netball.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The British are usually either Roman Catholic or Protestant. Protestants can be from the Church of England (Anglican) or Evangelical. Like most Europeans, the British are largely secularized. They have been and still are an important part of the worldwide mission force.

What Are Their Needs?

The English need the Holy Spirit to send new life to their churches, their homes, and their hearts.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in British churches.
Pray for a renewed mission vision within their churches.
Pray for British disciples to make more disciples in New Zealand.

Text Source:   Joshua Project