Rise of confidence in evangelical churches in Brazil: figures, context and current issues
In August 2025, a survey conducted by the DataFolha Institute and sponsored by the Brazil Association (OAB) highlighted the notable progression of the confidence in the evangelical churches among the Brazilian population. According to this survey, 31 % of those questioned say today having “very confident” in evangelical churches. This advance is significant: twenty years ago, confidence in these religious institutions was significantly lower, thus reflecting the deep transformation of the Brazilian spiritual landscape.
The study, carried out from July 7 to 14, 2025 with 2,005 Brazilians distributed in 130 cities of the country, places the evangelical churches in second position behind the Catholic Church, which remains the religious institution collecting the highest rate of “very confidence” (40 %). The missionary dynamism of evangelical churches, their capacity for innovation in the style of worship – strongly emotional and focused on music, healing, and the promise of material blessings – explain part of the growing popularity of this movement, especially in urban centers and among the popular classes.
At the same time, the survey also highlights recurring concerns: the economic dimension occupies an important place within the evangelical churches, often marked by the collection of tithe and financial contributions. This approach, sometimes perceived as transactional, raises debates on the financial vulnerability of the faithful from modest backgrounds. The role of churches in public life, particularly in the context of political polarization, places them at the heart of social dynamics, dependent on their growing influence.
Historically, the progression of evangelical churches is regular and results from a proximity strategy, in particular via the media, social assistance and establishment in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Today, these churches represent almost a third of the Brazilian population, against around 15% in the early 2000s.
This survey, officially published on August 12, 2025, stands out as a reliable benchmark to measure the evolution of institutional trust in Brazil and identify the major societal issues generated by evangelical boom.
Sources
Christian column (August 13, 2025)
Méricordia (August 17, 2025)
Vatican News (August 14, 2025)
Veja (August 10, 2025)
