Go with God: Political Exhaustion and Evangelical Possibility in Suburban Brazil

Go with God explores the significance of Evangelical faith in Rio de Janeiro's suburbs, based on sensory ethnographic fieldwork and attuned to religious desire and manipulation. It depicts Evangelical life as it is lived and explores where people turn to find grace, possibility, and a future.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 19 September 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

Through meticulous exploration of the senses and emotions, Go with God delves into the profound significance of Evangelical faith in Rio de Janeiro's suburban communities, the vast and sprawling outer regions of the city. Drawing upon sensory ethnographic fieldwork and a keen awareness of religious desire and manipulation, this book unveils how Evangelical belief has reshaped the way individuals perceive their lives in the context of Brazil's history of violent racial differentiation and inequality. Spanning from expressions of otherworldly hope to political weariness, Go with God offers a vivid portrayal of Evangelical life as it is experienced, shedding light on the places where individuals seek grace, possibility, and a glimpse into the future.

Introduction:
In the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Evangelical faith plays a central role in the lives of many residents, particularly in the suburban communities that sprawl beyond the urban center. This book aims to explore the intricate relationship between Evangelical belief and the experiences of individuals living in Rio's subúrbios, the expansive and diverse peripheral regions. Through a combination of sensory ethnographic fieldwork and a deep understanding of religious desire and manipulation, we will examine how Evangelical belief has shaped the way people understand their lives in relation to Brazil's history of racial division and inequality.

Sensory Ethnography:
To gain a comprehensive understanding of Evangelical life in Rio's subúrbios, we conducted extensive fieldwork that involved immersing ourselves in the daily lives of Evangelical communities. Our research involved participant observation, informal conversations, and extensive interviews with members of various Evangelical denominations. By employing a sensory ethnographic approach, we sought to capture the rich tapestry of experiences, beliefs, and practices that shape Evangelical life.

Evangelical Belief and the Subúrbios:
Evangelical belief in Rio's subúrbios is deeply rooted in the city's history of religious transformation and social change. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rio de Janeiro experienced a significant influx of European immigrants, many of whom were Evangelical Christians. As the city expanded and became more industrialized, Evangelical churches emerged as a source of solace, hope, and community for the growing population of working-class and marginalized individuals.

The Changing Landscape of Evangelical Faith:
Over time, Evangelical belief in Rio's subúrbios has evolved and adapted to the changing social and political landscape. While the core values of Evangelicalism, such as faith in Jesus Christ, personal salvation, and the importance of the Bible, remain unchanged, the way these beliefs are expressed and interpreted have been influenced by various factors. One significant influence has been the impact of Brazil's history of racial discrimination and inequality.

Understanding Life in Relation to Brazil's History:
Evangelical belief in Rio's subúrbios provides individuals with a framework for understanding their lives in relation to Brazil's history of racial division and inequality. Many Evangelicals view their faith as a source of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. They believe that God has a plan for their lives and that they can overcome any obstacle through their faith and perseverance. This belief has led to the development of community organizations and social programs that aim to support and empower marginalized communities, particularly those affected by poverty and violence.

Expressions of Otherworldly Hope:
One of the defining characteristics of Evangelical belief in Rio's subúrbios is the expression of otherworldly hope. Evangelicals believe in the existence of a spiritual realm that is inhabited by angels, demons, and God himself. They often express their hope for the future through prayers, hymns, and sermons that emphasize the power of God and the promise of eternal life. This otherworldly hope serves as a source of comfort and strength for many Evangelicals, particularly in times of crisis or uncertainty.

Political Exhaustion:
However, Evangelical belief in Rio's subúrbios is not without its challenges. As the political landscape in Brazil becomes increasingly polarized and contentious, many Evangelicals feel overwhelmed and exhausted by the constant debates and conflicts surrounding religion and politics. They may become disillusioned with the political process and lose faith in the ability of government to address social and economic issues. This political exhaustion can lead to a sense of disillusionment and apathy toward the broader social and political landscape.

Seeking Grace and Possibility:
Despite these challenges, Evangelical belief in Rio's subúrbios continues to provide individuals with a sense of grace and possibility. Many Evangelicals turn to their faith as a source of guidance and inspiration in times of difficulty. They seek solace in prayer, attend church services, and participate in community activities that promote social justice and compassion. Through their faith, Evangelicals believe that they can make a positive impact on their communities and contribute to the greater good.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Go with God offers a profound exploration of the significance of Evangelical faith in Rio de Janeiro's suburban communities. Through sensory ethnographic fieldwork and a keen understanding of religious desire and manipulation, this book reveals how Evangelical belief has reshaped the way individuals perceive their lives in the context of Brazil's history of racial differentiation and inequality. From expressions of otherworldly hope to political exhaustion, Go with God depicts Evangelical life as it is lived and explores where people turn to find grace, possibility, and a future. As we continue to navigate the complex social and political landscape of Brazil, it is essential to engage with the diverse perspectives and experiences of individuals and communities, including those shaped by Evangelical belief.

Weight: 256g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520394797