Brazilian Presbyterian Church to Vote on Ban of Legendários Men's Retreat Movement

The Supreme Council of the Igreja Presbiteriana do Brasil (IPB) will convene in Manaus from 26 July to 2 August 2026 to consider a report drafted by the Tocantins Synod. The report recommends that pastors, elders, deacons and other members refrain from joining or promoting the Legendários movement, a men’s retreat organization founded in Guatemala in 2015 and active in Brazil since 2018 with over 220,000 participants in 24 countries. Critics cite the group’s use of coaching‑style techniques, intensive emotional experiences, war‑cry chants, standardized uniforms, participant numbering and references to Jesus as “Legendário 001,” which they argue could create a parallel identity and exert psychological pressure. If the Council approves the recommendation, it will become official guidance for all IPB congregations, directing local councils to monitor and counsel members rather than imposing automatic expulsion.