Edir Macedo of Universal Church of the Kingdom of God Conducts First Spanish Event in Madrid

Edir Macedo, the founder of the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (IURD), held a significant event in Madrid on February 19, marking the first time the group conducted a large gathering in Spain. The event, which attracted approximately 3,000 attendees, took place at the Palacio Vistalegre Arena, a prominent venue in the city. This visit followed previous appearances in Portugal, where the IURD has established a notable presence.

The IURD, which operates under the guise of a Christian Aid Center in Spain, has long maintained a complex public identity. While it denies its true nature, the group’s activities in Madrid highlighted its global reach and influence. The event, described by some media as a “cult,” featured elements of faith and miracles, drawing attention to the group’s practices and its growing presence in Europe.

The Madrid edition of El País highlighted the event with a headline that emphasized the pastor’s association with Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. However, the article also noted the group’s broader context, including its origins in Brazil in 1977 and its expansion into Portuguese-speaking countries. The IURD’s approach to evangelism and its emphasis on prosperity theology have contributed to its rapid growth and international reach.

Scholars and researchers have pointed out that the IURD’s doctrine blends elements from various religious traditions, including Pentecostal evangelism, popular Catholicism, and Afro-Brazilian cults. This syncretic approach has led some to describe the group as a doctrinal amalgam that diverges from traditional Christian teachings. Critics argue that the IURD’s primary focus is economic, with a structure that manipulates followers for financial gain while maintaining a Christian facade.

The group’s activities often revolve around themes such as liberation from evil, economic prosperity, physical health, and personal relationships. These teachings are framed within the “theology of prosperity,” which encourages followers to contribute material resources to the organization with the expectation of divine rewards. This model, combined with strategic marketing, has enabled the IURD to expand rapidly, particularly among immigrant communities in regions where it has a strong presence.

The IURD’s global expansion underscores the challenges of distinguishing between legitimate religious organizations and groups with more controversial practices. As the group continues to grow, its activities and teachings remain a subject of scrutiny and debate, reflecting broader concerns about the nature and influence of religious movements in contemporary society.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)