Brazils religion is very diverse with the majroity of the population following the Catholic religion, Brazillian festivals and their calendar is centered around Catholic saints. Buildings design and artwork is heavily influeced by the Catholic religion. Rio De Jerno has the famous Christ the Redemire Statue that many trael to see.
Explanation:
Catholicism in Brazil
Catholicism was introduced to Brazil during the early colonial period by the Portuguese. However, other Jesuit missionaries from Europe sought to actively bring the teachings of Catholicism to the local populace, especially the indigenous population. In the 19th century, Catholicism was made the official religion of Brazil and was formally institutionalised into the country’s political and social system. Whilst this formality has loosened greatly, Brazil has one of the largest Christian populations in the world.
The Catholic Church in Brazil is divided into three major groups. In descending order of the number of followers, these groups are: the Roman Catholic Apostolic Church, the Brazilian Catholic Apostolic Church and the Orthodox Catholic Church. Despite the large proportion of the Brazilian population following one of these three branches of Catholicism, followers of the Catholic Church in general have been in decline. Simultaneously, the number of Brazilian Protestants has increased since 2000, yet it is unclear whether former followers of the Catholic Church are converting to Protestantism. According to the 2010 census data of Brazil, over three-quarters of Brazilians who live in rural areas identify as Catholic.
Numerous significant events in Brazil revolve around the Catholic faith, such as Brazilian festivities hinging on events in the Catholic calendar, or relate to Christian saints. Influences of the religion can also be seen throughout the country through Catholic iconography and buildings. One of the most known examples is the Christ the Redeemer statue located in Rio de Janeiro. Respect for and adherence to Catholic holidays and seminal life events also continue to be very important for many Brazilians, such as baptism, religious weddings and celebrations dedicated to patron saints.
