Who are the Lopit?
They inhabit the Lopit hills in Torit district, South Sudan, and practise traditional agriculture, as well as rearing livestock. They also harvest forest products, such as honey and shea nuts. The Lopit are proud of their culture, which affects their attitudes and social life. They practice initiation ceremonies: a naming ceremony for a baby, and a second one as a young adult. Every 25 years, in a ceremony called hifira, village administration and authority over community affairs is handed to the next generation.
What do they believe?
They believe in a supreme god, spirits and the spiritual sphere. Worship celebrations are accompanied by dancing and drinking, and alcoholism is a problem amongst the Lopit. The rain-maker and other mediums hold great power, and gifts are given to seek their favour for rain and for other good things to happen to the Lopit. Their culture is transmitted through songs, poems, dramas and music that express feelings and emotions.
What is being done to reach them?
The first Lopit TIMO (Training In Ministry Outreach) team saw a fledgling Africa Inland Church congregation started in Lohutok village. Praise God that this church has experienced spiritual and numerical growth and outreach work has seen local congregations emerging in several other villages, including Ohilang. The Lopit 2 team lived and worked in Ohilang and Iboni villages from December 2013 – November 2015 and had the joy of seeing more Lopit turning to Christ. A small team of missionaries is continuing in ministry.
