Sinhalese in Denmark

People Name:	Sinhalese
Country:	Denmark
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	7,200
World Population:	401,700
Primary Language:	Sinhala
Primary Religion:	Buddhism
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Buddhist
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

Sinhalese culture goes back about 2600 years when migrants from what is now northern India went to Sri Lanka. Eventually these new settlers developed a language which we now call Sinhala, and the people were Sinhalese. Around 250 B.C. they embraced Buddhism, which became part of their identity as a people.

Where Are they Located?

By far the most Sinhalese people live in their country of origin, Sri Lanka, but some have migrated elsewhere, including Denmark.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In Denmark, about two-third of the Sri Lankans are immigrants who plan to stay in the new country. The Sinhalese in Denmark are not refugees, but people who are looking for business or educational opportunities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Sinhalese people are Buddhists, though there are enough Christians among them that one might wonder if they are actually still an unreached people group. Those who live in Denmark are likely to become more secular like the Danish majority.

What Are Their Needs?

Resources in the Sinhala language include a complete Sinhalese Bible, an audio New Testament online, JESUS Film, and gospel recordings. The Sinhalese need to have the spiritual hunger it will take to find and use these resources.

Prayer Points

Pray that gospel radio, television, and Christian websites might penetrate the homes and hearts of Sinhalese people living in Denmark.
Pray that greater unity, effective discipling of believers, and sensitive sharing of faith will occur among the Sinhalese in Denmark.
Pray for a mighty disciple making movement among the Sinhalese, both in Sri Lanka, and in Denmark.