The Berbers of North Africa
The Berbers of North Africa are the original inhabitants of the land. They call themselves the Amazigh, which means ‘free men’. Many were once Christian. St.Augustine of Hippo was Berber.
Pray that Augustine’s prayer would be prayed by many Berbers: “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in Thee.” (Psalm 62:5 “Yes, my soul, find rest in God”)
Population: 25-36 million
Location and Background: Berbers are found throughout North Africa with large populations in the mountain and rural areas of Morocco and Algeria. There are also 2 million residing in France. Berbers are the indigenous people of North Africa, dating back thousands of years.
Culture: The Berbers are traditionally farmers and herders, nomads and traders. They make the famous Berber carpets. The nomadic Tuaregs of the Sahara Desert are Berbers.
Religion: Islam, with traces of former religious practices.
Latest Prayer Updates:
Baptism!
One new sister invited a friend to come hear the gospel. He believed last Tuesday and both were baptized Saturday (and an Arab believer too)! Pray for courage to be a witness and for unity among the believers. The Berbers love the Berber songs from Algeria…the Arabs love the songs from Egypt… May they encourage each other and sing together!
