Millions of Brazilians are waking up before dawn to tune into religious prayer livestreams, a rapidly growing trend led by figures like Catholic friar Frei Gilson. This phenomenon is transforming how Catholicism connects with its followers in the digital age, even as the church faces declining numbers.
Psychologist Cláudia Rodrigues de Oliveira Barbosa, 54, wakes at 3:40 AM to watch a 'dawn prayer' livestream by Catholic friar Gilson da Silva Pupo Azevedo, known as Frei Gilson. She is one of millions in Brazil, the world's largest Catholic nation, who tune into his 4 AM sermons, which average 2 million daily views. This habit is rapidly growing, with experts suggesting Brazil is a testing ground for religious influencers updating Catholic rituals. This shift comes as census data shows Catholics now comprise just over half of Brazil's population (56.7%), down from 82.9% three decades ago. Dentist Danielle de Freitas Silva, 40, also participates, finding a deep spiritual connection despite the exhaustion of early mornings. Frei Gilson began these prayers in 2020 as a personal penance, offering his sleep to God. His broadcasts have seen exponential growth, with some videos exceeding 4 million views and a recent in-person event drawing 37,000 people. Evangelical leaders, like Pastor Vinicius Iracet, 38, with over 11 million YouTube subscribers, have also embraced this trend, often attracting more Catholic than evangelical viewers by focusing on Christ rather than specific denominations or politics. Experts like Rodrigo Toniol and Magali Cunha note that the apolitical nature of most livestreamers appeals to audiences seeking to disconnect from a polarized world. They view this phenomenon as an update to longstanding religious habits, demonstrating Catholicism's ability to reinvent itself and remain relevant in Brazil, ritualizing daily life through digital devotion.
