Religious Practice in Brazil: Diverse & Predominantly Christian

Brazil is a **secular state** with no official religion, but faith is central to public life.

Demographics (2020 Census / Datafolha)

• Christian: ~85–90%
  • Roman Catholic: ~50–60% (largest Catholic population globally).
  • Protestant/Evangelical: ~25–35% (rapid growth; Pentecostal/Neopentecostal dominant).
  • Other: Orthodox, LDS, Jehovah's Witnesses.
• Spiritism (Kardecist): ~2–3% (unique Brazilian prominence).
• Afro-Brazilian Religions: Candomblé, Umbanda, Quimbanda (~1–2% self-ID; much higher cultural influence).
• Other/Non-religious: ~8–10% (rising "nones," especially youth).
• Minorities: Islam (~1M), Judaism (~120K), Buddhism, Indigenous cosmovisions.

Where Worship Happens

• Churches (cathedrals to storefronts), *terreiros* (Candomblé/Umabanda temples), Spiritist centers, mosques, synagogues, homes, outdoors (pilgrimages, festivals).
• Syncretism is common: many Catholics also attend *terreiros* or Spiritist centers.

Religious freedom is constitutionally guaranteed; the state maintains separation but collaborates with faith groups on social services.