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Central Asian Unengaged Peoples

The Azeri minority in Kazakhstan is a little-known unengaged and unreached people group deeply loved by God. Their presence dates back to the Soviet era, when many were exiled from Azerbaijan to Kazakhstan during Stalin’s deportations in the 1940s. Though stripped of dignity and stability, Azeris preserved their cultural identity throughout Soviet times. Today, they have integrated into Kazakhstani society with resilience and strength. Because Kazakhs (traditionally Sunni Muslims) and Azeris (traditionally Shia Muslims) share Turkic roots and an Islamic heritage, Kazakh followers of Jesus can connect with Azeris culturally. Additionally, both groups were required to learn Russian during the Communist period, making communication easier for Kazakh believers seeking to share Christ’s love. Pray that believers in Kazakhstan will notice the Azeri people around them, develop compassion for them, and actively pray for and reach out to them with the love of Christ. Pray that Azeris in Kazakhstan will choose to follow Jesus and gather with other believers, and ask that God will give wisdom for gospel outreach among them.