Categorizing Latin American Pentecostalism

Diversity vs Cohesion

Diversity is very prevalent in Latin America. Despite the diversity, Pentecostalism in Latin America shares several core features:

  • Experiential Faith: Emphasis on personal encounters with the Holy Spirit through speaking in tongues, prophecy, and healing.

  • Social Mobility: Often attracts marginalized groups, offering a sense of community and pathways for upward social mobility.

  • Evangelical Zeal: Strong focus on missionary work and conversion, often leading to rapid church growth.

  • Adaptability: Flexibility to blend with local cultures while maintaining core theological principles.

  • Community-Oriented: Provides support networks, particularly in impoverished or crisis-stricken areas.

While keeping these shared characteristics in mind, we use the diversity and differences of groups within Latin American Pentecostalism to separate them into distinct groups/categories.

1. Classical Pentecostalism

Classical Pentecostalism refers to the earliest Pentecostal movements in Latin America, introduced by missionaries in the early 20th century. These groups emphasize traditional Pentecostal doctrines such as speaking in tongues (glossolalia), divine healing, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Unique Features

  • Strong emphasis on personal holiness and a literal interpretation of the Bible.

  • Churches often characterized by fervent worship, prayer meetings, and healing services.

  • Initially spread by North American missionaries like Aimee Semple McPherson and the Assemblies of God.

Locations

  • Found across Latin America but particularly strong in Brazil, Chile, and Guatemala.

Important People

  • Francisco Olazábal, known as the "Brown Moses," was instrumental in establishing Pentecostal missions.

2. Neo-Pentecostalism

Emerging in the late 20th century, Neo-Pentecostalism diverged from Classical Pentecostalism by embracing modernity and focusing on prosperity theology. It emphasizes material blessings and success as signs of God’s favor.

Unique Features

  • Preaches a "health and wealth" gospel.

  • Highly media-savvy, utilizing television, radio, and social media to spread its message.

  • Conducts large-scale events such as healing crusades and prosperity seminars.

Locations

  • Prominent in urban centers such as São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Mexico City.

Important People

3. Indigenous Pentecostalism

Indigenous Pentecostalism arises from the blending of Pentecostal beliefs with indigenous cultural practices. These movements adapt Pentecostal theology to resonate with local traditions and spiritualities.

Unique Features

  • Incorporates native languages, music, and rituals into worship services.

  • Views the Holy Spirit as a liberating force from colonial and societal oppression.

  • Sometimes practices syncretism, blending Pentecostal and indigenous beliefs.

Locations

  • Found in rural and indigenous communities in countries like Bolivia, Peru, and Guatemala.

Important People

  • Domingo Can, a prominent K'iche' Pentecostal leader in Guatemala.

4. Charismatic Catholicism

Although rooted in the Catholic Church, Charismatic Catholicism incorporates many Pentecostal practices such as speaking in tongues, healing, and vibrant worship styles. This movement seeks to renew Catholic spirituality while remaining under the Church’s umbrella.

Unique Features

  • Encourages direct experiences of the Holy Spirit.

  • Promotes small, prayer-focused communities within parishes.

  • Recognized and supported by some Catholic bishops and clergy.

Locations

  • Particularly strong in Brazil, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.

Important People

  • Marcelo Rossi, a well-known Catholic priest and charismatic leader in Brazil.