Pitcairner, Norfolk in French Polynesia

Introduction / History

Norfolk Pitcairner refers to the language of descendants of mutineers and local Polynesians. This language is a blend of English and a Tahitian language.

Their history dates back to the Mutiny on the Bounty. This was a 1789 mutiny of British sailors in the South Pacific. They kidnapped Tahitians, mostly women, and settled with them on Pitcairn Island. Eventually they re-settled on Norfolk Island. Today they live in five countries, including French Polynesia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Norfolk Pitcairner is a dying language, being replaced by English and other larger languages.

Public moral behavior, once strictly regulated, has been relaxed somewhat in recent years. Pitcairners practice subsistence agriculture, with barter, and sustain their economy with the sale of collector stamps, exported honey, and handicrafts to cargo and cruise ships. One of the more isolated populations in the world, there is no airport.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Norfolk Pitcairner speakers are usually Seventh-Day Adventists, though only a few are regular worshippers. Many are secularized.

What Are Their Needs?

In recent years there have been notorious cases of sexual abuse and rape allegations. Isolation and a small population most likely have created a situation in which community healing is needed. True discipleship to Jesus Christ is necessary to heal Norfol

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to heal the Norfolk Pitcairner community in every way.
Pray for a powerful work of the Holy Spirit to revive their churches, bringing forth good fruit.
Pray that soon Norfolk Pitcairner speakers disciples will disciple others.
Pray that those who venture far from home will become Christ bearers to the lost.

Text Source:   Joshua Project