Brazil

186,000,000 inhabitants
Evangelical church: 22%

Occupying nearly half of the South American continent, Brazil is the largest country in Latin America. Colonized by the Portuguese in the 1500's, the rich natural resources were exploited for nearly 300 years. As agrarian oligarchies were established, many of Brazil"s native inhabitants were killed or marginalized and huge numbers of slaves from Africa were introduced.

Seventy percent of Brazilians are descendants of immigrants (Portuguese, Africans, Italians, Spaniards, and Germans). Portuguese is the principal language, yet there are more than 200 indigenous dialects still spoken in Brazil's vast territory. Some of these indigenous groups have never received the Gospel. While Brazil has the distinction of being the largest Catholic country in the world, extraordinary growth of the evangelical church also makes Brazil the third largest protestant nation— surpassed only by the USA and China. Spiritism is widely practiced.

Unquestionably Latin America"s strongest economic power, Brazil has emerged as a significant competitor on world markets. Exports include coffee, sugar, beef, and orange juice. Politics are still influenced by elites, resulting in ongoing inequity in distribution of wealth.

Stories about Brazil

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Opportunities to serve in Brazil

  • Training Program Assistant Director -- Christian Camping
    Annapolis, Brazil
    Assistant director of the training department to promote the training courses about Camp ministries in Brazil. Must be available for travel and training sessions. Help equip new camp leaders and be a consultant to camps.
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