Protestantisme et développement au Nord-Est du Brésil

Abstract

Although 'divided into various denominations, the Protestantism of the Natal area is, in fact, one single movement having the following characteristics : 1) a great emphasis on conversion; 2) a model of moral behaviours and a set of typical attitudes; 3) a strong group-cohesion based on local communities which are organized in denominations. A preoccupation with doctrinal orthodoxy and an insistence on the study of the Bible play an important role in the life and the organization of the communities. Their theoretical and practical problems stimulate ideological formulations and re-formulations. This is found together with 'visions' and experiences in which the rational activity is subordinate to the supernatural authority of 'revelation' and 'inspiration'. The Protestant groups follow certain ideological tendencies and orientate themselves according to strategies which are generally dominated by an abstentionist and even conservative attitude when faced with the mutations and problems of the regional and national society. The dominant trend encourages a set of basic values which, rather than challenging the traditional structures of power, sustain them. Yet it is important to note that the answers of the Protestants of the region to these problems are gradually becoming diversified and even contradictory. '