Methodist Church in Brazil
The Methodist Church in Brazil is a dynamic and growing church, deeply committed to evangelism, social justice, and contextual mission. The church is present in every Brazilian state. It has six emphasis for mission which include:
- To stimulate evangelizing zeal in the life of each Methodist, of each local church
- Revitalise the charism of clergy and lay ministries in the various aspects of mission
- Promote discipleship from the perspective of salvation, sanctification, and service
- Strengthen the identity, connectedness and unity of the Church
- Implement actions that involve the Church in the care and preservation of the environment
- Promote greater commitment and response of the Church to the cry of the urban challenge.
Innovative ministries include a hospital mission boat serving isolated Amazonian communities with medical care and the Gospel, and church plants in unconventional spaces like shopping malls.
Mexico Factfile
1930
Autonomy
37
Schools
2
Universities
The Methodist Church in Brazil began with efforts from American missionaries in 1835, though it wasn’t until 1867 that congregations were successfully established.
The church declared autonomy in 1930 and has since grown into a national presence. From its inception, the church has prioritised education.
It was the first denomination in Brazil to ordain women, beginning in 1974.
The church has long affirmed the social dimension of the Gospel, establishing day-care centres, clinics, and social programmes, and taking bold stances on human rights during periods of political oppression.
In 1982 the church adopted official positions, which push the church into an active witness and struggle to transform Brazilian society along lines of justice and freedom, with equal opportunities for the oppressed and poor. From this moment on, the church has spread out in all Brazilian states and significantly increased its membership.