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13th June 2010 |
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Population 201 million People 23 per sq km Religion 90% Christian (Most in name only) Positives Independent from Portugal in 1822 as a kingdom, it became a federal republic in 1889. Authoritarian military rule between 1964 and 1985 left a legacy of social inequality, bureaucratic inefficiency and state ownership of large parts of the economy. Multi-party democracy restored in 1985. Popular outcry at the President’s corruption forced his resignation in 1992, and democratic accountability to the people has improved since then. One half of the land surface and population of South America. The world’s fifth largest country. Soccer is huge in Brazil and they are a big chance in the World Cup. Pele is a retired Brazilian football player who is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time. In his native Brazil, Pelé is hailed as a national hero. He is known for his accomplishments and contributions to the game of football. He is also acknowledged for his vocal support of policies to improve the social conditions of the poor and when he scored his 1,000th goal he dedicated it to the poor children of Brazil. Pelé will be 70 this year.
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Prayer needs The government continues to dodge the painful restructuring and righting the wrongs of the past. It is said Brazil is a paradise for some, purgatory for most and hell for 20%. Pray that the endemic corruption, injustices of society and discrimination against the poor, underprivileged children and indigenous tribal peoples may be ended. Brazil is the world’s largest Catholic country with nearly 10% of all Catholics. However, only 13% of Catholics in Brazil are active in their commitment. The successes of evangelical denominations have stimulated a more people-friendly, contemporary worship and ministry and a greater growth of Evangelical Catholics as well as traditional mass attendance. Over 50% of Brazilians are under 18. Pray that the Church can communicate God's truth to this generation and effectively disciple them. Pray for the growing movement to plant new churches that are relevant to youth.
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