Saami, Northern in Finland

People Name:	Saami, Northern
Country:	Finland
10/40 Window:	No
Population:	3,900
World Population:	43,900
Primary Language:	Saami, North
Primary Religion:	Christianity
Christian Adherents:	97.00 %
Evangelicals:	12.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	No
Jesus Film:	No
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	Finno-Ugric, Saami
Affinity Bloc:	Eurasian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Northern Saami speak North Saami (Davvisámegiella), the most widely spoken of the Sámi languages, belonging to the Uralic language family. It is used across northern Sweden, Norway, and Finland.Historically, the Northern Saami have lived in Sápmi, a region encompassing the northern parts of Scandinavia and the Kola Peninsula. They were traditionally semi-nomadic reindeer herders, fishers, and hunters. Over centuries, they faced colonization, forced assimilation, and cultural suppression, including bans on their language and spiritual practices. Despite these challenges, the Northern Saami have preserved much of their identity through oral traditions, crafts, and community resilience.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, Northern Saami communities are found in Norrbotten County, including municipalities like Kiruna, Gällivare, Jokkmokk, and Arjeplog. Many still engage in reindeer herding, though others work in tourism, education, and public service. Cultural revitalization efforts include language education, media production, and political advocacy through Sámi parliaments.However, they continue to face land rights disputes, environmental threats, and social discrimination, which impact their ability to maintain traditional livelihoods and cultural practices.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Northern Saami have a complex spiritual history. Traditionally, they practiced animism and shamanism, believing that natural elements like rivers, rocks, and trees possess spirits. Their pantheon included deities such as Radienacca (Father), Radienacce (Mother), Beive (Sun goddess), and Horagalles (Thunder god).During the 1800s, Christianity—particularly Lutheranism—was introduced, often through coercive missionary efforts. Many Northern Saami today identify as Christian, but there has been a resurgence of interest in Sámi spirituality, including shamanic practices and ancestral veneration.

What Are Their Needs?

While many identify as Christian, there is a need for deeper discipleship, biblical engagement, and culturally sensitive ministry. North Saami is endangered in Sweden, and younger generations often lack fluency.Historical trauma from forced assimilation and discrimination continues to affect identity and community cohesion.Reindeer herding and traditional livelihoods are threatened by climate change, industrial development, and legal restrictions.

Prayer Points

Pray for strong discipleship programs that help Northern Saami believers grow in faith and lead others with cultural sensitivity.Pray for healing from historical trauma, that the Northern Saami would experience restoration and dignity.Intercede for spiritual renewal, that the gospel would be understood and embraced in ways that honor Sámi identity.Pray for the protection of traditional livelihoods, especially reindeer herding, from environmental and legal threats.