missions atlas project oceania vanuatu

MISSIONS ATLAS PROJECT
OCEANIA
VANUATU
Snapshots Section
Country Name: Vanuatu
Country Founded in:
Population: 218,519 (July 2009 est.)
Government Type: parliamentary republic
Geography/location in the world: Vanuatu is in Oceania and in between Hawaii and Australia.
Number of people groups: 120
Picture of flag:
Religion Snapshot
Major Religion and % of population:
All religions and % for each:
Presbyterian
31.4%
Anglican
13.4%
Roman Catholic
13.1%
Seventh-Day Adventist
10.8%
Other Christian
13.8%
Indigenous beliefs
5.6%
others
9.6%
none
1%
unspecified
1.3%
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
Government interaction with religion: The government has affirmed the Christian faith and
allows the free expression of religion.
Country Profile
Basic Facts
Country Name: Republic of Vanuatu
Demographics:
The estimated population of Vanuatu is 221,552. Children up to fourteen years of age account
for 30.1% of the population. There are 34,103 male children between the ages of newborn to
fourteen years of age. There are 32,683 female children between these same ages. Adults
between the ages of fifteen and sixty-four years of age account for 65.7% of the population.
There are 74,135 males in this age category and 71,462 females. In the last age category, sixtyfive years and above, there are 4,687 males and 4,482 females. The 65 years and over group
account for 4.1% of the population. The median age for males and females is 24.6 years old.
The birth rate is 21.08 births for every 1,000 people. There are an estimated 2.43 children born to
every woman. The infant mortality rate is 48.17 deaths for every 1,000 live births. The death rate
is 7.49 deaths for every 1,000 people. The life expectancy for the total population is 64.33 years.
The life expectancy for males is slightly lower at 62.7 years while the life expectancy for females
is slightly higher at 66.04 years.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
Language:
Approximately 72.6% of the total population uses over 100 local languages. 23.1% of people
speak pidgin known as Bislama or Bichelama. Other languages spoken in Vanuatu are English
and French.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
Society/Culture:
There are about 113 different people groups living in the islands. Each group has their own
cultural norms and expectations. What is written below is a generalization of life across the
islands.
Differences between urban and rural culture differ sharply. People in urban areas may have
office jobs and regular access to television programming. They will not follow traditional
customs. Tennis and golf are popular hobbies.
In rural areas, people continue to fish and grow their own crops of yams and taro roots which are
the two traditional crops. Yams remain a very important food crop as well as serving an
important cultural symbol to some groups.
In rural areas, men often spend the evenings drinking a special fermented drink called kava. The
popularity of this particular beverage has led to a side industry which produces the drink and
sells it at special bars. Women from that village cannot visit the bar. However, women from
outside the village may go in to drink, too.
Some ethnic groups divide their men and women into specific status classes. Men from lower
classes may attain rank by paying those of higher rank with pigs. Sometimes women have such
ranks. The role of women in society will largely be determined by whether the line of descent
passes patrilineally or matrilineally.
Independence Day on July 30th is the most important holiday. In every little town there will be
special competitions held. Other important holidays include Christian ones such as Christmas
and Easter.
Government:
Vanuatu gained independence from England and France on July 30, 1980. The country
established a parliamentary system of government similar to that of England.
Executive Branch
The executive power in Vanuatu consists of a cabinet of council ministers appointed by the
prime minister. The head of government is the prime minister. The current prime minister is
Edward Natapei, and the deputy prime minister (since September 22, 2008) is Ham Lini. The
chief of state is the president. Iolu Johnson Abil has served as president since September 3, 2009.
As all presidents, he will serve a 5 year term. The president is elected by a college consisting of
parliament and the presidents of the regional councils. Following a legislative election, the leader
of the majority party or majority coalition is usually elected prime minister by parliament from
among its members
Legislative Branch
The unicameral Parliament consists of 52 seats elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms.
Judicial Branch
The chief justice of Supreme Court is appointed by the president after consultation with the
prime minister and the leader of the opposition. Three other justices are appointed by the
president on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission.
The major party in Vanuatu is Vanua’ku Pati led by Edward Natapei. Other parties are the
National United Party, Union of Moderate Parties, and Vanuatu Republican Party.
The capital of Vanuatu is Port-Vila. Vanuatu has 6 administrative divisions: Malampa, Penama,
Sanma, Shefa, Tafea, and Torba.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
Economy:
Vanuatu’s gross domestic product was $988.5 million in 2008. The real growth rate of GDP was
6.6%. The GDP per capita was $4,600. The GDP by composition by sectors were: 26% for
agriculture, 12% for industry, and 62% for services in 2000.
The labor force in Vanuatu was 115,900 in 2007. The labor force by occupations was: 65% for
agriculture, 5% for industry, and 30% for services. The unemployment rate was 1.7% in 1999.
Concerning the budget, Vanuatu’ revenues were $78.7 million and expenditures were $72.23
million in 2005. The exports were $40 million in 2006; export commodities included copra, beef,
cocoa, timber, kava, and coffee. Primary export partners were Thailand (75.6%), India (10.4%)
and Japan (5.4%) in 2008. Imports were $156 million in 2006. Primary import commodities
were machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, and fuels. The main import partners were Australia
(18.1%), US (16.4%), Japan (12.3%), and Singapore (11.2) in 2008. The external debt was $81.2
million in 2004.
The Vanuatu currency is the vat (VUV), the exchange rate was 111.93 VUV per US dollar.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
Literacy:
Approximately 74% of population (age 15 and older) can read and write.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
Land/Geography:
Vanuatu is a group of islands in Oceania. It consists of more than 80 islands, 65 of which are
inhabited. The 4 main islands chain “Y” shaped. Vanuatu’s total area is 12,189 sq. km (sq. mi).
Vanuatu is slightly larger than Connecticut. The coastline is 2,528 km (1,571 miles) long.
Vanuatu’s landscape is mostly mountainous from volcanic activity. The coastal plains are
narrow. The highest point on Vanuatu is Mt. Tabwemasana, reaching 1,877 meters (6,158 ft).
Tropical cyclones or typhoons come from January to April. Volcanoes cause minor earthquakes.
A volcanic eruption on Aoba (Ambae) island began on November 27, 2005.
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
History
Approximately 3,500 years ago, the first settlers on Vanuatu were supposed to have come from
New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. These islands were visited by Europeans when a
Portuguese navigator, Fernades de Queir, landed in 1606. This area, including Vanuatu, was
known as the archipelago New Hebrides until many more explorers began to make landings in
the 18th century. Captain James Cook arrived in the area around 1774 and renamed it. British and
French missionaries, planters, and traders later came to Vanuatu.
The Anglo-French Convention in 1887 became the foundation to establish a joint naval
commission. This was followed by an Anglo-French Condominium government established in
1906. This led to the end of conflict between England and France due to clear local jurisdiction.
The large plantations using Vietnamese labors were prosperous until 1920s. During World War
II the islands were used as the base for the Allied army.
After the war, discussions about indigenous government were increased. In 1975, a
representative assembly was established which replaced the advisory council. By the universal
suffrage, 20 members were elected. An independent constitution was agreed on in 1979. During
the discussion of independence and the establishment of the constitution conflict existed between
the group who supported independence and those who were against. However, without violence,
the Islands gained independence and named itself as Vanuatu on July 30, 1980.
Christian History
All information unless otherwise noted is gleaned from World Christian Encyclopedia or Operation World.
Christians began to send emissaries to the islands during the early part of the 19th century. John
Williams landed on the island of Erogmanga and began to witness to the locals islanders. He was
martyred there in 1839.
Canadian Presbyterians tried to establish a church around 1848. They were soon joined by
missionaries from Scotland, Australia, and New Zealand. Through the combined efforts of these
men and women, the Presbyterian Church became a dominant force among many of the
islanders. Today, most Presbyterians reside on the southern islands.
The Anglican church of New Zealand began evangelization efforts around 1848 as well. They
focused their attention on the northern islands. Today, people living on Banks and Torres are
often associated at least nominally with the Anglican Church.
The Catholic Church sent priests as early as 1839, but no permanent work was established until
around 1887. In 1901, a vicariate was established.
Other denominations arrived. Seventh Day Adventist missionaries began work around 1912.
The Apostolic Church came in 1954. An Assemblies of God pastor started work in 1968 and this
church has seen steady growth.
Today there are some strong believers within churches, but there are also people who simply
attend services without really understanding what a true commitment to Jesus Christ really
means. Attending church is expected culturally so many people attend without their hearts ever
really being changed.
Religion
All information unless otherwise noted is gleaned from World Christian Encyclopedia or Operation World.
Non Christian
Buddhism—Approximately .06% of the population are Buddhists.
Baha’i—About 2.6% of the population is members of the Baha’i faith.
Catholic/Orthodox—Catholic priests initially visited around 1839 but a permanent work did not
develop until 1887. In 2005 there were approximately 18 congregations and 17,000 members.
Jehovah’s Witnesses—This group began work around 1933. In 2001 there were two
congregations and a total of 198 attendees.
John Frum Cargo Cults—These groups started around 1935. Members were once part of the
Presbyterian Church, but began to form separatist groups which believed that a mythical figure
named John Frum would come and cause all people of European descent to leave the islands.
Many elements of the old tribal religions have been intertwined with modern practice. The island
of Tanna is a center for this religious movement.
Non-religious/Other—About .5% of the population is not associated with an organized religious
group.
Nagriamel Churches of Christ—This movement started in 1967. Its members are ex-Church of
Christ. The headquarters are in Fanato. In 2001 there was one church with 300 members.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons)—LDS representatives arrived in
1980. In 2005 there were 4 congregations and 420 members.
Voice of Daniel—This group formed in 1932 after a man named Daniel Tambe had a vision.
Tambe had formerly served as a lay reader in the Anglican Church, but branched out to form his
own group. In 2001 there was 1 church with 100 members.
Other Melanesian Indigenous Churches—The Cargo cults have produced syncretized groups
that follow some Christian beliefs without actually believing in the truth of the gospel. In 2001
there were about 20 of these groups and 1,500 members.
Christian/Evangelical
Apostolic Church—This church was founded around 1945. In 2005 there were 31 congregations
and 1,400 members
Assemblies of God—Work began in 1968. In 2005 there were 77 churches and 12,001 members.
Christ Groups—This church was founded around 1980 as a result of a revival led by the home
church movement. In 2001 there were 27 groups and 400 members.
Christian Fellowship of Christian and Missionary Alliance—This organization began church
planting around 1975. In 2001 there were 8 congregations and 45 members.
Church of Melanesia—Work began in 1848. In 2005 there were 205 churches and 21,329
members.
Churches of Christ in Vanautu—Missionaries arrived in 1903. In 2005 there were 63
congregations and 3,150 members.
Free Evangelical Church—In 2005 there were 20 churches and 1,184 members.
Independent Presbytery Mission—The center of this work is the island of Malekule. This group
began in 1968 as the result of a schism with the Presbyterian Church of Australia. In 2001 there
were 3 congregations and 220 members.
New Apostolic Church—This church was founded around 1980. In 2001 there were 15 churches
and 600 members.
Presbyterian Churches of Vanautu—This church started around 1848. In 2005 there were 400
churches and 40,000 members.
Seventh Day Adventist—This denomination started work around 1912. In 2005 there were 47
churches and 13,153 members.
United Pentecostal Churches—This group began work around 1985. In 2001 there were 2
churches and 80 members.
Other Protestant Churches—In 2001 there were 15 other churches and 1,000 members.
People Groups
10959
Ahamb (923)
The primary Language of Ahamb is Axamb. Ninety percent of the people claim to be Christian.
About 19.62 % are evangelicals. They have access to portions of Bible translations. The
accessibility of other resources is available in the primary languages of Vanuatu.
100184
Akei, Tasikiri (1,350)
The primary language of the Akei people is Akei. About 18.77 % are evangelical. They have
access to portions of the Bible. The accessibility of other resources is unknown. It is possible
they can access Christian resources in some of the major languages of Vanuatu.
100260
Ambae, East (6,190)
The primary language of the Ambae people is Ambae (East). Approximately 15.92 % are
evangelical Christian. They have access to translated portions of the Bible. Access to other
Christian resources may be available to them in one of the primary languages of the country.
100261
Ambae, West, Opa (10,800)
The primary language of the Ambae people on West Ambae Island is Ambae (west). About
21.00 % are evangelical. They have access to Bible portions. Access to other Christian resources
may be available to them in one of the primary languages of the country.
http://www.ethnologue.com/show_language.asp?code=nnd
107397
Ambrym, North (6,500)
The primary language of Ambrym Islanders found in the north is Ambrym. Dialects include
Magam and Olal. The people live in the north on Ambrym Island. They are predominantly
Roman Catholic. About 18.71 % are thought to be evangelical. Access to Christian resources in
their language is not known, but many resources are available in the primary languages of the
country. These would include Bible translations, the Jesus film, and Gospel recordings.
http://www.ethnologue.com/show_language.asp?code=alm
10961
Ambrym, Southeast (3,166)
The Ambrym people found in the Southeast on Ambrym Island use the dialects of Taveak
(Taviak), Endu, Toak, and Penapo. Their primary religious practice is Roman Catholicism
mixed with ethnic religions. Less than 2% are thought to be Evangelical Christian. Some
Scriptures and gospel recordings can be found in their language. The Jesus film and more
resources are available in the primary languages of the country. Currently there seems to be no
active evangelical work among them.
10960
Amblong (263)
The primary language of Amblong is Amblong. They live mainly in South Santo. About 12.67%
are evangelicals. They are in need of Bible translations, Gospel recordings, the Jesus film, and
radio broadcasts in their language. They do have access to these resources in the primary
languages of the country.
10962
Aneityumese (1,056)
The Aneityumese people live in the area of Tafea. They speak the Aneityum language. Though
their primary religion is Protestant, less than 2% are Evangelical Christian. They have the Bible
in their language and Gospel recordings. The Jesus film and other resources may be available to
them in the primary languages of Vanuatu.
100354
Anglo-Australian (2,160)
The primary language of the Anglo-Australian is English. About 12.00 % of the people are
evangelicals. They have access to evangelical resources in their language.
10965
Atchin (2,418)
The Atchin people group is found mainly on Northeast Malakula and surrounding islands. Their
language is Uripiv-Wala-Rano-Atchin. They are marginal Christians, mixing their beliefs with
other practices. Less than 2% are thought to be Evangelical Christian. They have the Scriptures
and Gospel recordings in their language.
http://www.ethnologue.com/show_language.asp?code=aul
10966
Aulua Bay (528)
The Aulua Bay people group is found on East Malekula Island. They speak Aulua. Their
primary form of worship is Protestant beliefs with more than 5% thought to be Evangelical
Christian. They have Scripture portions and Gospel recordings in their language. The
availability of other Christian recourses to them, including the Jesus film, may be in the primary
languages of Vanuatu.
10968
Baetora, Nasawa (950)
The primary language of Baetora is Baetora. They live mainly in Maewo Island. They primarily
attend Christian services. About 19.44 % are evangelicals. They are in need of evangelical
resources in their own language. They may have access to a Bible translation in a major trade
language.
http://www.ethnologue.com/show_language.asp?code=btr
10969
Baiap (1,056)
The Baiap people speak a language called Dakaka. About 19.33% of the people are evangelical
Christians. Others practice a mixture of Christianity and ethnic religions. The Bible and the Jesus
film have not been translated into their language.
10970
Baki (380)
The Baki people group live in the Shefa province on west Epi. They speak Baki. They are
primarily Protestant in their religious practices. More than 5% are Evangelical Christian.
Portions of the Scriptures and Gospel recordings are available in Baki. Additional resources
such as the Jesus film and radio broadcasts are accessed in the official languages of the country.
10971
Bierebo (791)
The Bierebo people speak a language called Bierebo. They are primarily Protestants. About
17.11% of the people are evangelical. They do not have access to the Jesus film or a Bible
translation in their own language but may be able to in the major trade language.
10972
Bieri (323)
The Bieri people speak a language called Bieria. They usually affiliate with Protestant
denominations. The number of evangelicals is unknown. A Bible translation is available, but the
Jesus film is inaccessible.
10973
Big Nambas (3,166)
The Big Nambas people speak a language called Big Nambas. They are predominantly
Protestants. About 17.22% of the people are evangelicals. The New Testament has been
translated into their language but the Jesus film is inaccessible. This and other Christian
resources are available in the trade languages of the country.
10974
Bislama Creole (8,598)
The Bislama Creole people group speaks a language called Bislama. They usually attend
Protestant churches. They have access to the Jesus film and to a Bible translation.
10976
British (2,316)
The British speak English and are primarily Protestant. They have access to the complete Bible
and to the Jesus film along with many other resources.
10980
Butmas-Tur (923)
The Butmas-Tur people speak a language called Butmas-Tur. About 10.58% of the people are
evangelical. Others practice a mixture of Christianity and traditional religions. The Jesus film
and the Bible have not been reproduced in their language. They probably have access to a
translation in the major trade language.
10981
Central Maewo (666)
The Central Maewo people speak a language called Central Maewo. They are primarily
Protestant. About 21.43 % are evangelical. They have a Bible translation but do not have the
Jesus film.
10982
Central Raga (7,912)
The Central Raga people speak a language called Apma. They are predominantly Protestant.
About 20.53% are evangelicals. They have a Bible translation but do not have the Jesus film.
10983
Craig Cove (1.056)
The Craig Cove people speak a language called Lonwolwol. They primarily attend Protestant
churches. About 19.17 % are evangelicals. They have a Bible translation but do not have the
Jesus film.
47787
Deaf Ni-Vanuatu (1,318)
The Deaf Ni-Vanuata may use some form of sign language or hand gestures to communicate.
They are primarily ethno-religionists. About 31% may be evangelical. Christian resources exist
in Bislama.
18417
Detribalized Vanuatuan (36,962)
The Detribalized Vanuatuan people group speaks Bislama, a major trade language. They are
predominantly Protestant. About 14.41% are evangelicals. They have access to the Jesus film
and to a translation of the Bible.
10984
Dixon Reef (91)
The Dixon Reef people speak a dialect called Dixon Reef. They are predominantly Protestant.
About 24% are evangelicals. They do not have access to a translation of the Bible in their
language. Nor can they find the Jesus film. They may have access to both of these resources in
Bislama.
10986
East Aoban (7,120)
The East Aoban people speak a language called East Ambae. They are primarily Protestant.
About 15.92% are evangelicals. They have access to a translation of the Bible but have not been
able to view the Jesus film in their own language.
10987
Emae (380)
The Emae people speak a language called Emae. They often attend Protestant services. About
18.5% of the people are evangelicals. No Christian materials are written in their language. Some
may be available in Bislama.
18423
Erromangen (1,582)
The Erromangen people speak a language called Sie. They usually attend Protestant churches.
About 14.58% of the people are evangelicals. . They have access to a translation of the Bible but
have not been able to view the Jesus film in their own language.
10989
Fijian (640)
The Fijians speak Fijian and are primarily Protestant. They have access to the Bible and to the
Jesus film.
10991
Fortsenal (263)
The Fortsenal speak a language called Fortsenal. They primarily practice ethno-religions. About
8.67 % of the people are evangelicals. They do not have access to any Christian materials in their
own heart language but may have some exposure to the gospel through listening to oral
presentations of the gospel or through materials printed in Bislama, the national trade language.
10992
French (2,367)
The French people speak French and probably migrated to Vanuatu during colonial days. They
are primarily Catholic. They have access to the complete Bible and to the Jesus film as well as
many other Christian resources.
10993
Gilbertese (677)
The Gilbertese people speak a language called Gilbertese and are predominantly Protestant. They
have access to the Jesus film and a translation of the Bible.
10994
Han Chinese (464)
The Han Chinese people on Vanuatu speak Mandarin Chinese. Since they have been a part of
the culture for a long time, many may practice the religion of the area which, in this case is
Roman Catholicism. Less than 2% are thought to be Evangelical Christian. The Bible and the
Jesus film have been translated into Mandarin along with Gospel recordings.
10997
Koro (184)
The Koro speak a language called Koro. They practice a mixture of ethno-religions and
Christianity. Only 14% are evangelical Christians. There are no Christian resources in their
language. Those that have become believers may have done so by accessing materials in a trade
language or by hearing missionaries speak.
10998
Kwamera Tannese (3,768)
The Kwamera Tannese speak a language called Kwamera. They predominantly attend Protestant
churches. About 14.64% of the people are evangelicals. They have access to a Bible translation
but not to the Jesus film.
10999
Lakon (528)
The Lakon people speak a language called Lakon. They predominantly attend Protestant
churches. Nineteen percent are evangelicals. They have access to a Bible translation but not to
the Jesus film.
18422
Lamenu (1,160)
The Lamenu speak a language called Lamenu. Most attend Protestant services. About 17.2% are
evangelical Christians. They have not seen the Jesus film in their own language but do have
access to a Biblical translation.
11002
Lametin (263)
The Lametin speak a language called Merei. They are predominantly ethno-religionists. Only
8.68% are evangelicals. They do not have access to Christian materials written in Merei but may
have seen them printed in Bislama.
11003
Larevat (263)
The Larevat people speak a language called Larevat. They are mostly Protestant. About 16.67%
are evangelicals. They do not have access to Christian materials written in Larevat but may have
seen them printed in Bislama.
11005
Lenakel Tannese (10,126)
The Lenakel Tannese people speak a language called Lenakel. They attend Protestant churches
primarily. Approximately, 9.69% are evangelicals. They have not seen the Jesus film in
produced in their own language but do have access to portions of the Bible.
11006
Lingarak (369)
The Lingarak people speak a language called Lingarak. They affiliate with Protestant
denominations mostly. About 14.76 % are evangelicals. They do not have access to Christian
resources in their heart language but may have heard or seen presentations in Bislama.
11007
Litzlitz-Visele (580)
The Litzlitz-Visele speak a language called Litzlitz. They are predominantly Protestant. The
number of evangelicals is unknown. They do not have any Christian materials printed in their
language but may have them available in Bislama.
11010
Lorediakarkar (132)
The Lorediakarkar speak a language called Lorediakarkar. They are mostly ethno-religionists.
Twelve percent are evangelicals. They do not have any Christian materials printed in their
language but may have them available in Bislama.
11011
Mae (1,319)
The Mae people speak a language called Mae. They are predominantly Roman Catholic. About
18.40 % are evangelicals. They do not have access to the Jesus film or a Bible translation. They
may have Christian resources available in Bislama.
11012
Mafea (95)
The Mafea speak a language called Mafea. They are mostly Protestant. Twelve percent are
evangelicals. They do not have access to Christian resources in their heart language but may
have heard or seen presentations in Bislama.
11014
Maii (190)
The Maii people speak a language called Maii. They are predominantly Protestant. They do not
have access to Christian materials in the Maii language but may have them available in Bislama.
11015
Makura (5,011)
Tha Makura people speak a language called Namakura. They mostly attend Protestant services.
About 8.93% are evangelicals. They do not have access to Christian materials in the Maii
language but may have them available in Bislama.
11016
Malmariv (263)
The Malmariv speak a language called Tiale. They are ethno-religionists for the most part. About
4% are evangelicals. The Bible and the Jesus film have not been reproduced in their language.
They may have access to these resources in a trade language.
11017
Malo (2,854)
The Malo people speak a language called Malo. They mainly attend Protestant churches. About
33.33 % of the people are evangelicals. They have access to a Bible translation but cannot see
the Jesus film.
11018
Malua Bay (528)
The Malua Bay people speak a dialect known as Malua Bay. They are predominantly Protestant.
About 18.33% are evangelicals. The Bible and the Jesus film have not been reproduced in their
language. They may have access to these resources in a trade language.
11019
Maragus (27)
The Maragus speak a language called Maragus. They usually attend Protestant churches. The
number of evangelicals is unknown. They have no Christian resources in their heart language but
may be able to use ones written in Bislama.
11020
Marino (317)
The Marino people speak a language called Marino. They are primarily Protestants. About
16.67% of the people are evangelicals. The Bible has not been translated into their language but
may be available in the regional trade language. The Jesus film is inaccessible.
11021
Maskelyne Islander (1,763)
The Maskelyne Islanders speak a language called Maskelynes. They are predominantly
Protestants. About 17.33 % are evangelicals. The Bible has been translated into their language,
but the Jesus film is inaccessible.
11022
Mele-Fila (3,968)
The Mela-Fila speak a language called Mele-Fila. They are primarily Protestant. About 22% are
evangelicals. They have access to scripture translations but the Jesus film has not been translated
into their language.
11024
Merelava-Merig (2.075)
The Merelava-Merig people speak a language called Merlay. They usually attend Protestant
churches. About 17.21% of the people are evangelicals. They have access to a Bible translation
but have not seen the Jesus film.
11025
Mewun (666)
The Mewun people speak a language called Labo. They are predominantly Roman Catholics.
Approximately 18.29% are evangelicals. They have access to written scriptures and gospel
recordings, but they have not seen the Jesus film in their language. It is available in the major
languages of the country.
11026
Moruas (263)
The Moruas speak a language called Morouas. They are mostly ethno-religionists. About 8% are
evangelicals. They do not have access to the Jesus film or a Bible translation, but they do have
gospel recordings.
11027
Mosin (761)
The Mosin speak a language called Vurës. They usually attend Protestant churches. About
21.25% are evangelicals. They do not have access to the Jesus film or a Bible translation, but
they do have gospel recordings.
11028
Mota (791)
The Mota people speak a language called Mota. They are predominantly Protestant. About
20.22% are evangelicals. They have access to the Bible and to gospel recordings. However, they
do not have the Jesus film.
11029
Motalava (2,242)
The Motolava speak a language called Motlay. They usually go to Protestant church services.
About 20.08% are evangelicals. They have access to the Bible and to gospel recordings but not
to the Jesus film. This film is available in the major languages of the country.
11031
Mpotovoro (317)
The Mpotovoro people speak a language known as Mpotovoro. They are predominantly Roman
Catholic. About 11.67 % are evangelicals. They have no access to Christian resources. Those
that have come to Christ may have been able to access materials in a trade language.
18410
Napuanmen Tannese (5,453)
The Napuanmen Tannese people speak a dialect known as Whitesands. They are mainly Roman
Catholics. About 16.86% are evangelicals. They have access to the Bible and to gospel
recordings but not to the Jesus film.
11034
Narango (305)
The Narago people speak a language called Narango. They are mostly Roman Catholic. About
13.75% are evangelicals. They do not have access to the Jesus film or the Bible. They can listen
to gospel recordings.
11035
Nasarian (35)
The Nasarian speak a language called Nasarian. They are mostly ethno-religionists. The number
of evangelicals is unknown. They have no access to Christian resources.
11036
Navut (923)
The Navut people speak a language called Navut. They are primarily ethno-religionists. About
8.65% are evangelicals. They have no access to Christian materials in their own language but
may have some access to materials written in Bislama.
18411
New Caledonian (2,321)
The New Caledonians speak French and thus have easy access to the Bible and the Jesus film.
They are predominantly Roman Catholic. About 11.10 % are evangelical Christian.
11039
Nokuku (305)
The Nokuku people speak a language called Nokuku. They usually attend Roman Catholic mass.
About 20.63% are evangelicals. They have access to written scriptures and to gospel recordings.
They have not seen the Jesus film.
18412
North Ambrym Islands (5,011)
The North Ambrym Islanders speak a language called North Ambrym. They are predominantly
Roman Catholic. About 18.71% are evangelicals. They do not have access to the Jesus film or
to written scriptures. However, they can access gospel recordings.
18413
North Efate Ngunese (5,276)
The North Efate Ngunese people speak a language called North Efate. They are usually Roman
Catholics. About 19.47 % of the people are evangelicals. They have access to written scriptures
but not to the Jesus film. They also have access to gospel recordings.
18414
North Raga (9,968)
The North Raga people speak a language called Hano. They usually attend Protestant services.
The number of evangelicals is unknown. They have access to written scriptures but not to the
Jesus film. They also have access to gospel recordings.
18415
North Tannese (3,116)
The North Tannese people speak a language called North Tanna. They are predominantly Roman
Catholic. About 16.10 % of the people are evangelicals. The Bible has been translated into their
language and so have gospel recordings. The Jesus film has not been.
11045
Northern Torres Islander (211)
The Northern Torres Islanders speak a language called Hiw. They usually attend Protestant
services. The number of evangelicals is unknown. They have a Bible translation. No other
Christian resources are available.
11046
Onua (807)
The Onua people speak a language called Unua. They usually attend Roman Catholic mass.
About 13.27% of the people are evangelicals. They have a Bible translation. No other Christian
resources are available.
11047
Orierh (464)
The Orierh people speak a language called Malfaxal. They are primarily Roman Catholics. The
number of evangelical Christians is unknown. They have a Bible translation. No other Christian
resources are available.
18416
Paama (9,231)
The Paama people speak a language called Paama. They usually attend Protestant services.
About 18.35 % are evangelical. They have access to written scriptures and to gospel recordings.
The Jesus film is unavailable.
11049
Pangkumu Bay (659)
The Pangkumu Bay people speak a language called Rerep. They are usually Roman Catholic.
About 19.47% are evangelicals. They have a Bible translation. No other Christian resources are
available.
11050
Piamatsina (285)
The Piamatsina people speak a language called Piamatsina. They are predominantly ethnoreligionists. About 10.67% of the people are evangelicals. They have no access to Christian
materials in their language but may be able to see them in Bislama.
11051
Polonombauk (396)
The people of Polonombauk speak a language called Polonombauk. They are predominantly
Roman Catholic. About 15.11% are evangelicals. They have no access to Christian materials in
their language but may be able to see them in Bislama.
11052
Port Sandwich (1,319)
The people of Port Sandwich speak a dialect known as Port Sandwich. They usually attend
Roman Catholic mass. About 17.33% are evangelical Christians. They do not have access to the
Bible or to the Jesus flim.
11053
Port Vato (1,319)
The Port Vato people speak a language called Port Vato. They are usually Roman Catholics.
About 17.33% of the people are evangelicals. They have access to the written scriptures but not
to the Jesus film in their language.
11055
Repanbitip (158)
The Repanbitip people speak a language called Repanbitip. They usually attend Roman Catholic
mass. About 15% are evangelicals. . They have no access to Christian materials in their language
but may be able to see them in Bislama.
11056
Roria (263)
The Roria people speak a language called Roria. They are primarily ethno-religionists. About
8.67 are evangelicals. They have no access to Christian materials in their language but may be
able to see them in Bislama.
11057
Sa (3,166)
The Sa people speak a language called Sa. They are predominantly Roman Catholic. About 21%
are evangelicals. They have gospel recordings. They do not have a Bible or the Jesus film.
11058
Sakau (2,638)
The Sakua people speak a language called Sakao. They usually attend Roman Catholic mass.
About 21.2% of the people are evangelicals. The Bible has been translated into their language.
No other Christian resources are available.
11059
Samoan (232)
The Samoan people speak Samoan. They are predominantly Protestant. About 13% are
evangelicals. They have access to Bible translations and to the Jesus film.
11060
Seke (528)
The Seke people speak a dialect of Vanuatu called Seke. They are primarily Roman Catholics.
About 19.33 % are evangelicals. They do not have access to a translation of the scriptures in
their dialect. Nor has the Jesus film been translated into their language. They may have found
copies of the Scriptures along with other resources in one of the trade languages.
11062
Shark Bay (396)
The Shark Bay people speak a dialect known as Shark Bay. They are predominantly Roman
Catholic. About 14.5% of the people are evangelicals. They have no access to Christian materials
in their language but may be able to see them in Bislama.
11063
Small Nambas (536)
The small Nambas people speak a language called Letemboi. They are predominantly ethnoreligionists. About 3.95% are evangelical Christians. They have access to gospel recordings. No
other Christian materials are accessible in their dialect.
11064
Southeast Ambrym (3,166)
The Southeast Ambrym people speak a language called Southeast Ambrym. They usually attend
Roman Catholic mass. About 19.28% are evangelical Christians. They have access to written
scriptures and to gospel recordings. The Jesus film is inaccessible.
18428
Southern Efate (6,595)
The Southern Efate speak a language called South Efate. They are usually Roman Catholics.
About 20.08% are evangelical Christians. They have access to written scriptures and to gospel
recordings. The Jesus film is inaccessible.
11066
Southern Torres Islander (553)
The Southern Torres Islanders speak a language called Lo-Toga. They usually go to Protestant
churches. About 20.63% are evangelicals. They have access to written scriptures and to gospel
recordings. However, the Jesus film has not been reproduced in their dialect.
18430
Southwest Bay (475)
The Southwest Bay people speak a language called South West Bay. They are predominantly
Roman Catholics. About 21.2% are evangelicals. They do not have the Jesus film. They are able
to access the Bible and gospel recordings.
18432
Southwest Tannese (3,957)
The Southwest Tannese people speak a language called Southwest Tanna. They are
predominantly Roman Catholic. About 12.5% are evangelicals. They have access to gospel
recordings. Other Christian resources are accessible in the major languages of the country.
11069
Sowa (55)
The Sowa people speak a language called Sowa. They usually attend Roman Catholic mass. The
number of evangelical Christians is unknown. No Christian resources are accessible in their
language.
11070
Tahitian (48,760)
The Tahitian people speak Tahitian. They are primarily Roman Catholic. About 14.25% are
evangelicals. They have access to the Jesus film and a Bible translation.
11071
Tambotalo (95)
The Tambotalo people speak a language called Tambotalo. They are mostly Roman Catholics.
About 20% are evangelical Christians. They have access to gospel recordings. No other Christian
resources are accessible.
11072
Tamgoa (695)
The Tangoa people speak a language called Tangoa. They usually go to Protestant churches.
About 19.20% are evangelical Christians. They have access to gospel recordings. No other
Christian resources are accessible.
18434
The Tarasag people speak a language called Lakon. They are mostly Protestant. About 19% are
evangelicals. No Christian resources exist in their language but they may be able to access
materials in Bislama.
11075
Tasiko (349)
The Tasiko people speak a language called Lewo. They go to Protestant churches often. About
11.85% are evangelicals. Portions of the Bible have been translated into their language. The
Jesus film is not accessible in Lewo, but is available in the major trade languages.
18435
Tasiriki (1,237)
The Tasiriki people speak a language called Akei. They are mostly affiliated with Protestant
churches. About 18.77% of the people are evangelicals. Portions of the Bible have been
translated into their language. The Jesus film is not accessible in Akei.
11077
Tasmate (265)
The Tasmated people speak a language called Tasmated. They are predominantly Protestant.
About 19.33% of the people are evangelicals. No resources are available in their language but
materials can be accessed in Bislama.
11078
Tembimbe-Katbol (791)
The Tembimbe-Katbol people speak a language called Katbol. They are primarily Protestant.
About 14.81% are evangelicals. No resources are available in their language but materials can be
accessed in Bislama.
11079
Tegel (263)
The Tegel people speak a language called Lehali. They are mostly affiliated with Protestant
churches. About 16.67% of the people are evangelicals. No resources are available in their
language but materials can be accessed in Bislama.
11081
Tolomako-Jereviu (791)
The Tolomako-Jereviu people speak a language known as Tolomako. They are predominantly
Protestants. About 4.89% are evangelicals. They do have access to a Bible translation but not to
the Jesus film in Tolomako.
11082
Toman Islander (1.056)
The Toman Islanders speak a language called Malfaxal. They usually join Protestant
denominations. About 2.5% of the people are evangelicals. They do have access to a Bible
translation. The Jesus film is inaccessible in Malfaxal.
18437
Tongan (232)
The Tongan people speak a language called Wallisian. They are predominantly Protestant. About
33.80 % are evangelicals. They have access to the Bible, but not to the Jesus film. They may
have access to other Christian recourses in one of the trade languages of the country.
11084
Tutuba (263)
The Tutuba people speak a language called Tutuba. They often go to Protestant churches. About
19.33% are evangelical Christians. No Christian resources are available in their language. They
may have some access to the Bible in Bislama.
11085
Ura (21)
The Ura people speak a language called Ura. They are mostly Protestant. No Christian resources
are available in their language. They may have some access to the Bible in Bislama, the trade
language of the islands.
11086
Ureparapara (158)
The Ureparapara speak a language called Lehalurup. They are mainly Protestant. The number of
evangelicals is unknown. The Bible and the Jesus film have not been translated into their dialect.
Those that read Bislama may have access to Christian resources.
11087
Uripiv (9,347)
The Uripiv people speak a language known as Uripiv-Wala-Rano-Atchin. They are primarily
Roman Catholic. About 3.45% are evangelicals. The Bible has been translated into their
language, but the Jesus film is not accessible. Gospel recordings exist.
11088
Valpay (528)
The Valpay people speak a language called Valpei. They usually attend Roman Catholic mass.
About 16.67% are evangelical Christians. No Christian resources are available in their language.
They may be able to get some that are translated into Bislama.
11089
Vao (2,373)
The Vao people speak a language called Vao. They are predominantly Roman Catholics. There
are no known evangelicals. No Christian resources are available in their language.
11091
Vartavo (923)
The Vartavo people speak a language called Burmbar. Many affiliate with Protestant
denominations. About 19.23% are evangelicals. No Christian resources exist in their own
language, but they may be able to access ones in Bislama.
11092
Vatrata (1,056)
The Vatrata people speak a language called Vera`a. They are mostly Protestants. About 33.33%
are evangelicals. No Christian resources are available in their language. They may be able to get
some that are translated into Bislama.
11093
Vietnamese (1,056)
The Vietnamese speak Vietnamese and may have migrated there looking for work in the fishing
industry. They are often Roman Catholic. The number of evangelicals is unknown. They have
access to a Bible translation and to the Jesus film. Gospel recordings also exist.
11094
Vinmavis (369)
The Vinmavis people speak a language called Vinmavis. They usually affiliate with Protestant
denominations. About 7.14% of the people are evangelicals. They do not have access to a Bible
translation or the Jesus film in their own language but may be able to read a translation in
Bislama.
11096
Vunapu (659)
The Vunapu people speak a language called Vunapu. They mainly attend Protestant churches.
About 13.87% are evangelicals. No Christian materials are available in their heart language, but
they may be able to understand ones written in Bislama.
11097
Wailapa (190)
The Wailapa people speak a language known as Wailapa. They are predominantly Protestant.
About 16% are evangelicals. They do not have access to a Bible translation or the Jesus film in
their own language but may be able to read a translation in Bislama.
18463
West Ambae (7,912)
The West Ambae people speak a language called West Ambae. They usually affiliate with
Protestant denominations. About 21% are evangelical Christians. The Bible and gospel
recordings have been translated into their language.
11100
West Futunan (1,141)
The West Futunan people speak a language called Futuna-Aniwa. They are primarily Protestants.
About 18.67 % are evangelicals. They have access to the Bible and Gospel recordings, but not to
the Jesus film in their language.
11102
Wetamut (184)
The Wetamut people speak a language called Wetamut. They are usually Protestant. The number
of evangelicals is unknown. No Christian materials are written in their language. Some may be
available in Bislama.
11105
Wusi-Kerepua (379)
The Wusi-Kerepua people speak a language called Wusi. They usually attend Roman Catholic
mass. There are no known evangelicals. No Christian resources have been reproduced in their
language.
Missiological Implications
1.
Evangelical Christians and churches should seek to respond to the people-group nature of
the cultures of Vanuatu and plan church-starting methods to make the most of this cultural
fact. Churches for each segment of the population should enlarge the evangelistic harvest.
2.
Evangelical Christians and churches should seek to help local Christians and churches
correct the theological misstatements that spring from the Cargo Cults. The emphasis on
materialism that often is seen in Cargo Cult teaching must be replaced with biblical truth
about spiritual values.
3.
Evangelical Christians and churches must recognize the evangelistic conditions and act
upon these conditions before many are swept into other religious expressions. NonChristian religious groups are sending their representatives to win the hearts and minds of
the islanders. These emissaries sometimes offer economic advantages and free schooling.
Pray for the truths of scripture to counteract the false teaching of these other religious
organizations.
4.
Evangelical Christians and churches should help local believers stress the differences in
biblical Christian teaching and behaviors. Christians should show the differences between
true Christian commitment and social following of church activities.
5.
Evangelical Christians and churches should develop and share with local believers methods
of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with followers of Traditional Religions in the
islands.
Pictures
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/vanuatu/images
Links
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/nh.html
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2815.htm
http://www.southpacific.org/guide/vanuatu.html
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/advice/vanuatu
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/country_profiles/1249790.stm