Introduction / History

The Kpelle people are the largest ethnic group in Liberia. They speak the Kpelle language, which belongs to the Mande branch of the Niger-Congo language family, though many also speak English, the national language of Liberia. The Kpelle have a cultural history marked by strong family ties, agricultural traditions, and a communal way of life centered around farming and trade.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Community gatherings and church events play important roles in maintaining social bonds and cultural identity. Kpelles express hospitality, generosity, and a deep sense of community responsibility, often extending support to extended family members through remittances and community projects.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kpelle traditionally practiced animism and ancestor veneration, believing in a Creator God who was distant from daily affairs, with spirits and ancestors serving as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual worlds. With the spread of Christianity in Liberia during the 19th and 20th centuries, many Kpelle people converted, particularly through the influence of Baptist, Methodist, and Pentecostal missions.

Most Liberian Kpelle identify as Christian and participate in Liberian-led churches that blend African worship styles with Western Christian teachings. However, some Kpelle still hold to traditional practices or mix old spiritual beliefs with Christianity, reflecting a blend of worldviews that shapes their faith experience.

What Are Their Needs?

Many deal with the lingering effects of war trauma, displacement. Economically, there is a need for stable employment.

Spiritually, while many Kpelle profess Christianity, some need a deeper understanding of biblical truth to distinguish faith in Christ from traditional religious syncretism. There is a growing opportunity for discipleship, leadership training, and culturally relevant ministry within Liberian and Kpelle churches in the U.S.

Prayer Items

Pray that Liberian Kpelle believers will grow strong in their faith and live out the gospel clearly in their communities.
Pray that Kpelle churches in Liberia would raise up spiritually mature leaders who can disciple others in the truth of God's word.
Pray for unity among Liberian Christian fellowships, that they would be a light to all of Africa.
Pray that the Liberians would understand that the true Creator is not distant but seeks an intimate relationship with his creation.
Pray that the Liberian people would understand that only Jesus is the mediator between God and man.
Pray for a mighty work of the Holy Spirit to revive all churches throughout Liberia.

Scripture Prayers for the Kpelle, Liberia in Liberia.

References

Ethnologue: Kpelle Language Profile
Library of Congress: Liberia Country Studies – The Kpelle People
U.S. Department of State: Liberian Diaspora and Resettlement Overview
Pew Research Center: African Immigrant Religious Life in the U.S.