The Life and Religious Beliefs of the Iraya Katutubo: Implications for Christian Mission

Abstract

This qualitative study focuses on the understanding of the traditional religious beliefs and their impact on the Iraya Katutubo of Occidental Mindoro. It explores how Christian beliefs have affected their lives. Selected indigenous adults were interviewed with the assistance of some local teachers. The findings show that the traditional religious beliefs of the Iraya Katutubo have an impact on their lives. Most of the respondents still believe in and practice superstitions although they profess to be Christians. They have added some Christian trappings, without fully understanding, to their animistic beliefs and practices. This syncretism among the Iraya Christians is a challenge for Christian missions.