Religious Groups and Social Movements in Latin America

Abstract

Abstract Religious organizations have been the crucibles of social movements from across the political spectrum in Latin America. What is more, scholars agree that the era of Roman Catholic hegemony in Latin America is over. The 1960s were a turning point. Among Roman Catholics, the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) inspired two different and seemingly opposed movements, liberation theology and the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR). The former inspired counter-movements and formal rebukes from the Vatican while the latter eventually won formal recognition from Pope John Paul II. The CCR learned from and adapted to the rapid growth of Protestantism, especially Pentecostalism, in Latin America. While early accounts of Protestant growth emphasized conflict, scholars suggest that Latin America is experiencing the “Pentecostalization of religion” where emotion- and spirit-filled religious services are common in both Pentecostal and many Catholic parishes. What is more, Roman Catholic bishops and Pentecostal leaders have set aside theological differences to denounce so-called morality issues (birth control, abortion, marriage equality for LGBT individuals). Similarly, progressive Catholics and Protestants have formed coalitions to address social justice issues. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the ways the rise of Pentecostalism is affecting gender in families, churches, and the public sphere and suggests future directions in research, including field theory.