In the previous article, we discussed the idea that among the North Africans (“NAs”) of Spain, there are really three different groups that we’ll call “new,” “veteran” and “second-generation immigrants.” Here are some of the ways our family has found we can connect with each group:
New Immigrants: NAs that have arrived in Spain recently are in need of many things. Often they do not have jobs lined up, nor do they have a place to live. NA families will live with other NA families for quite a while as their culture mandates hospitality.
From our experience, we’ve seen people under some serious stress as they try to function in an ew culture while living with people other than their immediate family. However, finding housing and providing housing is not usually something Americans should be doing (or could do). However it’s good to be aware that this is a real need many of them have.
Another big need new immigrants have is language. They need access to free or cheap language classes. In Barcelona, cultural centers have been set up by Christians who desire to share the love of Christ with Muslims. They meet a legitmate need for these NAs as well as gain access to their world through friendships developed during class time.
Veteran Immigrants: These immigrants are often well plugged into their new community, whether it be a community of Muslims or a community of Spaniards and other foreigners living in their city. It can be hard to reach a veteran immigrant because they are already plugged in, but it can also be a blessing to have an authentic relationship with one because they will usually introduce to their oikos, or their family and tight-knit social circles.
I have a NA friend who has lived here for more than 10 years. When she invited us to her son’s birthday party, we were surprised to find in attendance Moroccans, Algerians, Peruvians, Egyptians and of course, our family. We have learned that when reaching NAs in Spain, one must be prepared to develop relationships with other nationalities along the way.
Second-generation Immigrants: The youth of the veteran immigrants can be hard to find. They often dress like native Europeans, talk like them, and live the lifestyle of European youth. The greatest thing we’ve learned about reaching this unique group is that they can be very open to the Gospel. Although they try and appear as Muslim as possible at home, they are heavily influenced by the liberal Spanish mindset.
The challenge of reaching second-generation immigrants comes from them being in turmoil about what they’re taught at home versus the worldview they’ve learned in school and in the streets. But just like any challenge, there is blessing in it too as they may be more likely to discuss spiritual matters.
We hope these insights into our experiences with an ethnolinguistic people group have helped you understand things you can look for in your own culture and/or in the people group among whom you live. Of course, the key to understanding and better interacting with an ethnolinguistic people group is prayer, so we encourage you to prayerfully approach how you learn about and live life with “your people.” Then just wait for God to show you what He wants you to learn and follow His lead.
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