| dc.description.abstract | The present study aims to shed light on issues related to contemporary religious identities. It examines major Brazilian neo-Pentecostal denominations, namely: Igreja Universal do Reino de Deus (IURD) (Universal Church of the Kingdom of God), Igreja Internacional da Graça de Deus (IGD) (International Church of God´s Grace), Igreja Apostólica Renascer em Cristo (IARC) (Reborn in Christ Apostolic Church), and Igreja Mundial do Poder de Deus (IMPD) (Worldwide Church of the Power of God). In particular, we intend to show how neo-Pentecostalism, through its most fundamental doctrine – Prosperity Theology (PT) – creates demands, raises possibilities and defines paths for individuals inserted in the modes of subjectification inherent to the market economy. The emphasis of this work is supported by at least three key concepts. The first is that human beings direct their actions to things based on the meaning that these things have for them. The second aspect has to do with the fact that meaning given to these things arises from social interaction that individuals engage in with other individuals. Finally, the third concept lies in the fact that meaning is directed and modified through an interpretive process, employed by people in relation to the things and situations they encounter and experience in their lives.Thus, here is where our epistemological problem lies: in the expression of contemporary faith; in the manifestations present in the neo-Pentecostal cults; in the introduction of that which is sacred by force of words and gestures; in the interaction, ideation and communication with a reality that not only provides social visibility, but also ends up demanding action, whose goal is to create a life destined for material success and recognition of a certain status quo according to the rules of the world and the Neoliberal market. The issues articulated by Neo-Pentecostal religiosity are presented within a complex environment in which semantic, conceptual, epistemological and cultural issues regarding mechanisms of religious recomposition are expressed. | en |
