Saami, Skolt in Finland
Photo Source:
Ninara - Flickr
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Saami, Skolt |
| Country: | Finland |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 500 |
| World Population: | 900 |
| Primary Language: | Saami, Skolt |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 97.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 10.00 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Finno-Ugric, Saami |
| Affinity Bloc: | Eurasian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Skolt are one of the indigenous far northern Saami peoples. Their homeland was divided between Finland and the USSR in 1920 by the Treaty of Tartu. This treaty curtailed their traditional work of hunting, fishing and keeping herds of reindeer.
None live in Norway, although there are other Saami groups there. The Skolt population is highest in Finland. They speak their own language, although it is a dying language.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Skolt Saami live in the far north where few can survive.
What Are Their Beliefs?
In the 1500s Saint Tryphon of Pechenga converted the Skolt Saami to Christianity. They were among the first indigenous Saami people to become Christian. They are currently members of the Eastern Orthodox Church, though some are Lutheran. There are some who still practice their ancient shamanistic religion.
What Are Their Needs?
The Skolt Saami need to find new ways to earn a living.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Lord to bless the Skolt Saami people in every way, leading them to give him praise and thanks.
Pray for Skolt Saami disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for a Holy Spirit revival in their churches, leading many to put their faith in Jesus.