Mordvin-Moksha (Mordvin)
The Mordvins are one of the largest ethnic minorities in Russia today. Mordvins have traditionally been farmers, but during the Soviet period many of them moved into urban areas for industrial work. They are skilled at woodcarving and weaving, both of which are important elements of their folk art. Alcoholism is a severe problem, especially in rural areas, where drinking is essentially the main form of recreation. As a whole, Mordvins were converted to Russian Orthodox Christianity in the first half of the eighteenth century, but they have retained many of their native religious traditions, including group prayers and animal sacrifices for various spirits, nature worship ancestor worship and mystical beekeeping.
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The chief gods of the Mordvin are called Paas and Shkai. Pray Russian believes find ways to share the truth of the Gospel with the Mordvin. Pray the Mordvin will come to know the one and only Living God.
Mordvins dwell in wooden houses without plumbing and using communal wells. Wages are typically low and healthcare is inadequate. No known evangelical work is targeting them. Pray that their physical and spiritual needs will be met.
Many Mordvins worship the elements; especially water, as it gives special blessings to marriage. Pray that they will have opportunities to hear the Truth and accept the Living Water that is offered to them.