President Lula meets religious leaders to discuss church reforms and political support

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva met with Protestant and evangelical leaders at the Palácio do Planalto to discuss religious freedom and the relationship between faith and democracy. During the meeting, Lula stated that he refuses to hold political rallies inside churches, preferring to conduct such events in the streets.

Lula addressed the future of the Catholic Church, suggesting it may face difficulties if it does not reconsider the practice of clerical celibacy and expand the role of women in leadership positions, such as the priesthood and episcopate. He noted that the growth of evangelical denominations in Brazil could be linked to their greater inclusion of women in religious roles.

In a show of political support, the Frente de Evangélicos pelo Estado de Direito has formalized its endorsement of Lula’s reelection, even producing a campaign jingle. Additionally, the Christians for Democracy movement held an event in João Pessoa to support the president, emphasizing the importance of a secular state and respect for diverse beliefs.