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Are you wanting to know more about the Island of Réunion? Click here
Réunion Island is located approximately 430 miles east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. It is one of three islands in the Mascarene island group which also includes Mauritius and Rodriguez.
The island is about 32 miles wide by 45 miles long. It is extremely mountainous with the highest peak reaching 10,069 feet. It even occasionally snows on top of the mountain! There is an active volcano which erupts quite often.
There are close to 700,000 people living on Réunion. They are a very diverse group of people. There are French, African, Malagasy, Indian and Chinese people. The largest group on the island is called Crèole and they are a mix
ture of these various groups. All of these people are French citizens because Réunion is a department of France.
The people of Réunion have blended their different origins and cultures thus making up a "Reunion" of peoples and customs. At first glance they appear to be a very reserved people, but underneath that facade is a very warm, caring person. Friendships are highly valued in this society and much time is spent building and maintaining these relationships.The largest religion on Réunion is Roman Catholicism followed by Hinduism. Evangelical Christianity accounts for about 5% of the population. There is also a large Islamic community. There are several cults active on Réunion. In addition to this there is a strong influence of animism. People tend to mix traditions and practices from all of these sources.
There are two music styles that are indigenous to Reunion Island. They are Sega and Maloya. Sega is found on all of the islands in the mascarene group but Maloya is only found on Reunion Island.
There are basically two types of cuisine on Réunion, Creole and Metro. The main Creole dish is cari. This is made from any type of meat (fish, chicken, pork , goat or beef) cooked in a sauce of oil, garlic, onions, tomatoes, fresh herbs and "curcuma" (a saffron type spice). The cari is served over rice with "piment" ( a very spicy salsa type relish). Dessert is usually one of the many tropical fruits grown on the island.
Metro dishes are basically the same as in France. Most meats and vegetables are served with sauces, and of course French bread is a must. The presentation of the meal is of utmost importance. The plate must look as good as it tastes!
Education is very important in Réunion. Education seems to be the key to a future in this society with almost 40% unemployment. The French Public School System is very rigorous, with most students studying several different languages. No time for sports and clubs in the schools here! The goal of students on Réunion is to pass the "BAC", a twenty hour exam at the end of their senior year that is required to enter university.
How you can pray for the people of Réunion
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Pray that Bible
studies can be started in homes as a means of outreach and edification.
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Pray for the Church at La Saline les Bains. This church is located in an area that is resistant to the Gospel message. Most people here are young professionals who do not feel they have a need for God.
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Pray that God will direct the church as we consider renting a building for our worship services.
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Pray for the ladies attending the quilting classes. Pray that the contacts made will lead to opportunities to share the Gospel.
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Pray for the men attending a pastor training class and that God will raise up leaders.
