Angolar in São Tomé and Príncipe

Introduction / History

São Tomé is an equatorial island off the west coast of Africa in the country of São Tomé and Príncipe. The climate is humid and hot, just a mile north of the equator. Most Angolares live in their traditional homeland. Others move to the capital in search of a new life.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The recent discovery of petroleum has opened up new economic opportunities. Agriculture and fishing continue to be main sources of income. Speakers of the related Forro language look down on the Angolares, often discouraging them from using their native tongue in the city.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Angolars follow traditional religious beliefs that came from a variety of worldviews brought to the island by settlers. Worship of ancestral spirits characterizes a deep and widely held animism. Individuals can seek out a ritual specialist to obtain protection from enemies, restore their health or even gain the attention of a potential lover.

About 80 percent of the people claim to be Catholic. The annual church calendar features festivals organized around patron saints of towns. People may travel from distant parts of the island to attend. Much of Christianity is in-name-only. It is not based on a genuine birth-from-above experience rooted in a sound faith in Jesus.

What Are Their Needs?

Angolars need a fresh touch by the Holy Spirit.

Prayer Points

Pray for a powerful Holy Spirit revival to permeate their families and churches, drawing them into greater love for God and for their neighbors.
Pray for hundreds to be raised up with a defiant faith in Christ, one that will not be shaken no matter what comes their way.
Pray for God to bring about his purpose for the Angolars.
Pray for Christians to have love, joy, peace, and patience as they tell others about the King of kings.

Text Source:   Joshua Project