Slovaks make up the third-largest people of ethnic ancestry. Slovaks have been coming to the United States since the sixteenth century, the largest wave of immigration spanning the thirty-five years before World War I. Hard working and thrifty by nature, the Slovaks were living in oppression and harsh economic conditions in those years. As a result, many came to the United States to improve both their social and economic conditions and settled primarily in Pennsylvania and Ohio.
The majority of Slovaks have assimilated and no longer adhere to what would be known as Slovak. Nevertheless, there still are those Slovaks who adhere to that which would be known as Slovak. For instance, there are Slovaks who still speak Slovakia at home. In addition, the societies such as the Slovak Heritage Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania, through its many activities, helps to promote the continuation of the beautiful customs of the Slovak people.
Most members are second or third generation Slovak Americans. Exhibits, Slovak Language Classes and Cooking Classes help keep the culture alive. There is a vast reservoir of liturgical and folk music, which provides another way to ensure that the language of their ancestors is preserved.
Roman Catholicism is the primary religion, with a small minority who adhere to an evangelical faith. However, most Slovaks live a more secular lifestyle and it often appears that they go through the motions of being Roman Catholic.
Prayer Points
Pray for God to send laborers into this field of opportunity.
Pray that He will raise up and equip locals who will take the gospel to their Slovak neighbors.
Pray that Slovaks will search for truth found in the living God, Jesus Christ.
Learning Resources
Learn more about "Learning Paths" Online Courses for embracing, encountering and engaging diaspora people. Work at your own pace. Begin anytime and complete the course according to your schedule. Interactive, Hands-On Application.
Learn more about "Reaching the Nations" This book delineates five disciplines Christians should develop in order to effectively reach the nations. More specifically, it will guide Christians to develop an engagement strategy in their locale.
Toronto (Mississauga, Brampton), ON - 13,840
