The current wave of political conservatism in Brazil is also reflected in a shift in religious forces. The traditional form of religion, Candomblé, is a blend of Catholic and African spiritual elements. These days, however, it is increasingly losing ground to the so-called neo-charismatic movement, an offshoot of evangelical Christianity that doesn't think capitalism is a dirty word. Religion commands the respect of the authorities, and the drug gangs are therefore using the religious movement as a form of moral money laundering. The militant and aggressive rhetoric of drug dealers turned pastors is also a good match with the gang culture of the slums. Fanatical supporters preach a "spiritual war" against the pernicious influence of popular telenovelas. New souls are easily persuaded by catchy gospel funk
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