INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Catholics represented 83% of the population in 1989 but account for only 50% today, while evangelical Protestants have surged from 9% to
35%.Several factors drive this dramatic shift
Protestant denominations offer more dynamic worship experiences with engaging music and less formal clergy-congregation relationships
Their strong media presence attracts new followers through late-night services that provide comfort to troubled viewers.The theological
divide creates another powerful contrast
Catholic doctrine emphasizes sacrifice and poverty with rewards promised after death
Evangelical churches promote prosperity theology, suggesting God wants believers to succeed materially in their earthly lives.This
prosperity message resonates strongly in a capitalist society where material success signals achievement
Aparecida, Largest Catholic Church in Brazil
Historically, practitioners often identified publicly as Catholic while secretly maintaining their true spiritual practices
Modern affirmative policies now encourage open adherence to these faiths.The Catholic Church fights back through charismatic priests and
Frei Gilson attracts millions of followers with his 4 AM digital rosary prayers during Lent
His approach blends traditional Catholic conservatism with solidarity messages.This religious transformation carries political implications,
Founded with support from progressive Catholic sectors advocating Liberation Theology, PT once maintained strong ties with Church
PT now holds influence primarily among older Catholics in impoverished regions but struggles with evangelicals and younger Catholic
PT controlled 625 mayoral positions nationwide in 2012
That number plummeted to 252 by 2024, making it only the ninth-largest party in municipal governance despite holding the presidency.A
