Introduction / History

The Pite Saami speak Pite Sámi (sje), a critically endangered language of the Western Sámi branch of the Uralic language family. It is traditionally spoken in Arjeplog and Arvidsjaur municipalities in Norrbotten County, Sweden, along the Pite River. The language has fewer than 30 fluent speakers, most of whom are elderly.Historically, the Pite Saami were semi-nomadic reindeer herders, fishers, and hunters. Their language was not standardized until recently, and efforts to document and revitalize it began in earnest in the 2000s. Projects led by linguists and local activists have produced dictionaries, grammar guides, and multimedia resources to preserve the language.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Pite Saami live in rural northern Sweden, where some still engage in reindeer herding, though many have transitioned to modern occupations. Swedish is dominant in daily life, especially for those outside traditional Saami areas or not involved in herding. Cultural practices such as handicrafts, oral storytelling, and seasonal festivals remain important, but are increasingly at risk due to assimilation and urban migration.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Pite Saami are predominantly Christian, with 94% identifying as Christian and 6% as evangelical. Christianity was introduced through missionary efforts, and while traditional animistic beliefs once played a role in their worldview, these have largely been replaced or integrated with Christian practices. Today, many Pite Saami maintain a Christian identity, though secularism is also present.

What Are Their Needs?

While most identify as Christian, there is a need for deeper engagement with Scripture and culturally relevant discipleship.Pite Sámi is critically endangered, and younger generations often lack fluency. Traditional knowledge, especially related to reindeer herding and oral traditions, is at risk of being lost.

Prayer Items

Pray for strong discipleship programs that help Pite Saami believers grow in faith and lead others with cultural sensitivity.Intercede for spiritual renewal, that the gospel would be understood and embraced in ways that honor Sámi culture.Pray for healing from historical marginalization, that the Pite Saami would experience restoration and dignity.Pray for protection of traditional livelihoods, especially reindeer herding, from environmental and legal threats.

Scripture Prayers for the Saami, Pite in Sweden.

References

AI generated by CopilotEndangered Languages Project – Pite SaamiPite Saami Documentation Project – University of Freiburg