Could a church truly capture the spirit of rebirth? Here at Igreja Renascer em Cristo, that very question hangs in the air. Igreja Renascer em Cristo translates to “Reborn in Christ Church.” This vibrant church pulses with a unique energy. It’s a story of music, ambition, and controversy. Igreja Renascer was founded in 1986 right here in São Paulo by Estevam and Sônia Hernandes. Estevam, once a Catholic, found his calling in the Pentecostal Church of the Bible in Brazil. He honed his marketing skills at Xerox and Itautec. Sônia, raised in an evangelical family, balanced her work as a nutritionist with a passion for fashion. Together they embarked on this spiritual venture.
Igreja Renascer’s early days resonated with the youth. The church embraced diverse musical styles, from rock and reggae to rap and samba. This inclusive approach attracted businesspeople and professionals as well. Their services became a melting pot of faith and rhythm. The church’s message of prosperity theology resonated with many. This theology emphasizes God’s blessings in the form of material wealth and well-being. Igreja Renascer grew rapidly. From humble beginnings in a home, then a pizzaria, it found a temporary space in the Arab Evangelical Church of São Paulo. Eventually, Igreja Renascer established its international headquarters on Avenida Lins de Vasconcelos.
This growth extended beyond Brazil’s borders, reaching into the United States and Angola. Igreja Renascer’s influence reached its zenith with over one thousand temples. It played a pivotal role in popularizing the term “gospel” in Brazil during the early 1990s. Estevam Hernandes partnered with businessman Antônio Carlos Abbud to found Gospel Records. They even trademarked the term. The church’s media empire expanded to include Rede Gospel television and Gospel FM radio. Igreja Renascer also launched businesses like the clothing line Gospel Wear and Editora Renascer publisher.
However, the story of Igreja Renascer isn’t without its shadows. The Hernandes faced legal challenges in the United States, accused of bringing undeclared cash into the country. In a tragic turn, the church’s main temple collapsed in 2009, resulting in fatalities and injuries. These incidents, alongside financial scrutiny, led to the closure of a significant number of temples. Even famed footballer Kaká, a longtime member, distanced himself from the church amidst these controversies. Igreja Renascer’s journey embodies both triumph and tribulation. It’s a story of faith, music, and ambition interwoven with legal battles and setbacks. As you stand here, consider the complex legacy of Igreja Renascer, a testament to the enduring power and complexities of faith in modern times.