The Serer represent one of the largest ethnic groups in Senegal and the most responsive to the gospel. Roman Catholicism has made an impact, with adherents numbering about 14 percent of the population—about the same as among the Safi. Most evangelical churches also have their greatest number of converts among the Serer, claiming one percent of the population.
A local couple offered to introduce me to the Serer. We drove through Mbour and stopped at a small town on the way to Kaolack. I was presented to a Christian Serer leader. He was obviously pleased to visit with us and extended warm hospitality. He introduced his wife and several of their children. One of their sons had been hit by a car and was recovering from a broken leg. The family had a great attitude.
Following a brief tour of their compound, we left for a Serer village seven kilometers away. One family hosted us, welcoming us with smiles and a song. They shared insights into their family life and their newly harvested peanut crop. The ebb and flow of village life was stimulating.
The villagers allowed me to take many photographs of them working their way through an ordinary day. Each one was so gracious, emphasizing again that the Serer are lovely, hospitable people who just need to know Jesus as their personal Savior.
Returning to the Serer leader’s home, we sat down to a wonderful meal of rice and fish, followed by a few cups of Senegalese tea.
My heart was touched by the responsiveness of the people, knowing only a few believers and churches exist among them. My prayer is for a fresh move of the Spirit across the Serer nation and the raising up of a church that recognizes the need of all believers to be involved in evangelism.
Serer Profile