Mamasa, Pattae' in Indonesia

Introduction / History

The Mamasa people are an indigenous people group living in the Mamasa Regency in West Sulawesi. Researchers trace the Mamasa origin to the Toraja Sa'dan people who migrated to Sulawesi. As time passed, they developed into a different people group, though their Mamasa language is related to the Toraja.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mamasa people have their own cultural practices, music, dance, weaving, and other art forms which they pass down from generation to generation, despite the effects of globalization.
Their culture and customs are closely related to ancestral beliefs. This is central to their identity as a people.
The Mamasa have a strong community. Hospitality is very important to them.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though the Mamasa are officially Muslim there is a lot of animism and ancestor worship blended in with their worship of Allah. They identify with their own spiritual beliefs and with the tenets of Islam.

What Are Their Needs?

There are Mamasa subgroups and others who can take Christ to this people group. They need the savior's guidance.

Prayer Points

Pray for many from this unreached people group to understand both God's judgment and his majestic glory.
Pray for loving workers to go to the Mamasa people, and for their hearts to be ready to receive their savior.
Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching families that result in thousands of new disciples who share their faith with others.
Pray for grace and truth expanding into their entire society as all believers learn to love others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project