Faith That Indigenizes

by Marcelo Vargas A.

Publisher:

Langham

, 2022

Overview

The growth of evangelicalism in Latin America, specifically among indigenous peoples, is changing the religious and cultural paradigms of the region. In this important work, Dr. Marcelo Vargas A. explores the interplay between Neo-Pentecostalism and Aimaran indigenous identity in La Paz, Bolivia, identifying how the integration of the two has led to social, political, and economic transformation. This study offers insight into the growing impact of the Neo-Pentecostal movement, both in Latin America and beyond, as well as the significant role of indigenous peoples in shaping the future of Christianity across the globe.

Key Features

• Explores the interplay between Neo-Pentecostalism and Aimaran indigenous identity.
• Offers insight into the growing impact of the Neo-Pentecostal movement.
• Explores the significant role of indigenous peoples in shaping the future of Christianity.

Praise for the Print Edition

This book is unique as a case-study of Aimara who have become members of the Neo-Pentecostal Power of God Church in Bolivia. Dr. Marcelo Vargas, a Bolivian pastor, theologian, and missiologist, is especially qualified to research, understand, and teach us regarding the interplay between ancient Aimara worldview and Neo-Pentecostal spirituality.

--Charles Van Engen, PhD. Founding President and CEO, Latin American Christian Ministries Inc.

The author shows both how the church has changed the Aimaras involved and how the Aimara culture influences the church. While modifying some customs and demonstrating some western tendencies, such as greater individualism, Vargas argues that the underlying Aimara cultural values and worldview remain strong. This book should grace the shelves of any student interested in the integration of missiology, history, indigenous studies, and urban mission.

--Nancy Thomas, PhD. Author of A Long Walk, a Gradual Ascent: The Story of the Bolivian Friends Church in Its Context of Conflict (2019)

I remember very well the enthusiasm with which my dad spoke to me about the Power of God Church. He joined some of their packed services where he heard Pastor Luis Guachalla preach, listened to their radio station, and was impressed by their rapid growth. However, until I read this book, I never realized the importance of the Aimara background to understand the phenomenal growth of this denomination. Reading it also helped me to understand the Neo-Pentecostal background and the importance of globalization.

--Igor Amestegui. Former General Secretary of Bolivian Comunidad Cristiana Universitaria. Director of Langham Preaching Latin America

Product Details

• Title: Faith that Indigenizes: Neo-Pentecostal Aimara Identity
• Author: Marcelo Vargas A.
• Series: Global Perspectives Series
• Publisher: Langham
• Print Publication Date: 2022
• Logos Release Date: 2023
• Pages: 126
• Era: era:contemporary
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Reader Edition
• Subjects: Aymara Indians Bolivia La Paz Ethnic identity; Aymara Indians Bolivia La Paz Religion; La Paz (Bolivia) Religion Economic aspects; La Paz (Bolivia) Religious life and customs; Pentecostalism Social aspects Bolivia La Paz
• ISBNs: 9781839737046, 9781839737053, 9781839737060, 1839737042, 1839737050, 1839737069
• Resource ID: LLS:FTHTHTNDGNZS
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2023-10-18T16:51:37Z

About Marcelo Vargas A.

Marcelo Vargas A. was born in Cochabamba, Bolivia. He is director of Centro de Capacitacion Misionera and a faculty member at NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community. He has worked extensively in churches with Aimaran indigenous believers and holds a PhD in intercultural studies from the University of Wales, UK.