The language and many of the customs of the Deqen are distinct from those of other Tibetan peoples. Although most Deqen are Buddhists, this group has the largest number of professing Christians among any Tibetan group in the world. The Paris Foreign Missionary Society evangelized the area in the 1860s. In 1905 Tibetan lamas killed all the French missionaries and the head of Father Dubernard was hung on the monastery gate, and several Christian families were shot. This cruel act solidified the faith of the survivors.
Buddhism is a strong, integral part of the self-identity of most Tibetans.
Perhaps the Deqen followers of Jesus will become mature enough in the faith to effectively carry the message of Christ to their neighbors and friends. Pray they grow in numbers and in maturity.
Pray for the Christian believers among the Deqen to live holy, joyous lives, and to reach out to others with the Gospel of Christ. Pray they will learn how to effectively share their faith with their Buddhist neighbors.
Pray that persons and households of peace will be found among the Deqen people who will catalyze movements to Jesus among their own people. Pray they will increasingly be drawn to the person of Christ. Pray they will hunger to know forgiveness for their sin, and will be led to understand that this forgiveness is available through trust in Christ.
"All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats." Matthew 25:32
| People Name | Tibetan, Deqen |
| Country | China |
| 10/40 Window | Yes |
| Population | 120,000 |
| World Population | 120,000 |
| Language | Tibetan, Khams |
| Primary Religion | Buddhism |
| Bible | Portions |
| Online Audio NT | No |
| Jesus Film | Yes |
| Audio Recordings | Yes |
| Christ Followers | Few, less than 2% |
| Status | Unreached |
| Progress Level: |
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