Brief Profile

As many customs and beliefs from Austria have been incorporated by the Catholic Church, many Austrians have retained the feast days of their native country, though without the pageantry or connection to their original purpose. The Austrian custom of placing a pine tree atop newly constructed houses has become a traditional ceremony for ironworkers as well, many of whom were of Central European origin. The fir tree, as mentioned, has become a staple of Christmas. Yet overall, Austrian customs have become barely recognizable in North America.

Most Austrians would claim Roman Catholicism as their primary religion but very few practice their religious faith. They often have become more non-religious and adhere to a more secular worldview caring very little for formal religions.

Prayer Points

• Pray that the Lord will raise up evangelical churches and Christians to work among the Austrians.
• Pray that the Holy Spirit will open the hearts of Austrians toward Christians so that they will be receptive to the Gospel and experience a personal relationship with a living God.
• Pray that the Lord will send evangelical Christians to share the message and love of Christ through both deed and word among the Austrians.