Arab, Lebanese in France
Photo Source:
DFID - UK - Flickr
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Arab, Lebanese |
| Country: | France |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 24,000 |
| World Population: | 6,274,600 |
| Primary Language: | Arabic, Levantine |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 34.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.50 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Arab, Levant |
| Affinity Bloc: | Arab World |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Some Lebanese consider themselves Arabs while others associate themselves with the ancient Phoenicians. Both groups have made their mark on world history through trade and power. Others consider the Lebanese to be Levantine Arabs, referring to those who originated in Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine or Syria. Some also include Arabs from Egypt, Iraq and Turkey. Like their ancient ancestors, today's Lebanese Arabs live all over the world. One can find them in most parts of the world including France.
Lebanon was a French protectorate between WWI and WWII. For this reason, the Lebanese have more French influence than most Arab groups. The French had a close relationship with the Maronites, eastern Catholics. They set up many French-based schools in Lebanon during their brief tenure, and the French still have influence among the Lebanese elite. Surprisingly, this has not led to many Lebanese living in France compared with other European countries. The vast majority of Lebanese who live in France came during or after the Lebanese Civil War which began in 1975.
What Are Their Lives Like?
As one might expect from their shared history, the Lebanese who live in France are from among the elite. The Lebanese population includes prominent businessmen, writers, novelists, journalists, politicians, film directors, musicians, and actors.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most of the Lebanese in France are either from the traditional Maronite (eastern Catholic) church or they are Shia Muslims.
What Are Their Needs?
Whether they are Muslim or traditional Christian, the Lebanese Arabs in France need to put their hope and trust in Jesus Christ. They need the infilling of the Holy Spirit and the willingness to obey Christ so they can experience abundant life.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Holy Spirit to revive the Lebanese church, leading them to make disciples who make more disciples.
Pray for their fellowships to be Christ centered rather than tradition centered.
Pray there will soon come a day when the Lebanese people will send loving workers to unreached people groups in the Middle East and Europe.
Pray for spiritual hunger and a discernment that will keep them away from spiritual counterfeits.