Freedom to express

by CelebrateBrazil.com

Several decades ago, when Brazil still had a dictatorship, a religion that came over from Africa when slaves were brought to Brazil was practiced, but practiced in mostly in secret. This Afro-Brazilian religion is Candomblé. Candomblé is a synchretic religion in that it has incorporated aspects of Catholicism. While in the past, practitioners might have identified themselves as Catholic, these days they are stepping out and self identifying as practicing Candomblé. There is a good report on NPR about this.

I find it meaningful that these Brazilians feel courageous enough now to be open about their religion. I hope that all people everywhere may find the freedom to express who they are without persecution, especially within realms that concern healing of people, spirits and the earth.