
Catholicism's long dominance as the paramount religious force in Latin America has eroded in the midst of social changes taking place all throughout the region. This has allowed Protestantism - often closely connected with the military - to make its presence felt. Institutions such as the Voice of the Andes, Brazil's Christian TV, and the Reverend Jimmy Swaggart grow more influential every day.
This trend is analyzed by critics, including an Ecuadorian human rights organizer who fears that indigenous people are being "lulled to sleep" by the evangelists. A promotional film produced by Christian stations shows us what he is reacting to: a messianic zeal that exploits the cultural religious heritage of the native population.
"**** [4 Stars - Highly Recommended] An eye-opener... a welcome addition to any academic or public library collection."—Video Rating Guide for Libraries
"Interviews with theologians, administrators, sociologists, historians, indigenous people, and activists provide fair and balanced presentations. Very highly recommended for all libraries."—Choice
1989 Award of Merit, Latin American Studies Association