Irish, Gaelic-speaking in Ireland
Photo Source:
The Irish Labour Party - Flickr
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Irish, Gaelic-speaking |
| Country: | Ireland |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 181,000 |
| World Population: | 256,200 |
| Primary Language: | Irish |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 96.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.80 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Anglo-Celt |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Gaelic stems from the language of the ancient Celts who dominated much of the British Isles two thousand years ago.
It is pre-dates Middle English. It was spoken mainly by the Scots and the Irish, and each of which has their own dialects. In Ireland, Gaelic is an official language while in Scotland and England it is considered secondary to English.
What Are Their Lives Like?
In the British Isles those who speak Gaelic must also be fluent in English. Those who only speak Gaelic usually live in rural communities with little contact with outsiders. In the UK and Ireland, Gaelic speakers face an unusual situation. Their preference for an ancient language puts them at a disadvantage with those who speak English … or even an introduced language like Punjabi.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Almost all Gaelic speakers are either Roman Catholic (especially the Irish) or Protestant like the English or Scottish. They often allow unbiblical beliefs and religious traditions to get in the way of their relationship with Jesus Christ.
What Are Their Needs?
Like all peoples of the world, Gaelic speakers need to put Jesus Christ first in their lives.
Prayer Points
Pray for a spiritual revival throughout the UK and Ireland that will put Christ first in the hearts and minds of Gaelic speakers.
Pray for disciples to make more disciples who make even more disciples.