Carolinian in Northern Mariana Islands

Introduction / History

Carolinian is a Micronesian group that originated on the Caroline Islands. They have their own language, Carolinian, but most also speak English. Most live either in Micronesia or the Northern Mariana Islands, but a small number are in the United States.

What Are Their Lives Like?

When someone dies, they cover the body with sweet-smelling flowers and roll it in a mat. The body is placed at the edge of a reef. They attach weights to the body and allow the current to carry it out to sea. They also have “ancestral villages” near reefs where they burn the belongings of deceased family members. Other families cremate the dead and spill the ashes in the ocean. They might save the skull for spiritual reasons and put it in a sacred place.

The Carolina people have two special dances, one for men and the other for women. The woman’s dance is slow and graceful. The men have a stick dance that has its roots in warfare, but it has changed its meaning, especially when it spread to the Mariana Islands. Men might wear large leaves around their necks and a traditional bead. Sometimes they wear coconut leaves shaped like a crown.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most are Christian, mainly Roman Catholic. Catholicism was brought to them by the Spanish. Their traditional religion emphasized the importance of their ancestral spirits and how they relate to people today. The ocean was more than a body of water; it has spiritual significance.

However, the gospel is strong in Carolinian communities. They have the opportunity to become Christ’s ambassadors.

What Are Their Needs?

The Carolinians are at risk for two kinds of cancer: breast cancer and cervical cancer. Other health issues include obesity and high cholesterol, which go with that.

They also face problems with alcoholism and meth addiction. This is possibly related to their high unemployment rate.

Prayer Points

Pray for a Holy Spirit revival in Carolinian churches, drawing them into the loving arms of Christ.
Pray that soon Carolinians will become a significant force in taking Christ to various parts of the Pacific Island nations and East Asia.
Pray for the Lord to show them the way out of drug addiction into the hope that only Christ offers.
Pray for Carolinian Christians to find innovative ways to strengthen their economy and create more job opportunities.

Text Source:   Joshua Project