Skip to main content
OnPoint Now

The Beatboxing Nuns: A Holy Hit in Brazil's Youth Outreach

The Catholic Church in Brazil is embracing the digital age with two dynamic nuns at the forefront of a viral sensation, tapping into youth culture through music and dance.

By Jack Nicas and Victor MoriyamaSource: nytimes.com1 min read

In brief

In Ponta Grossa, Brazil, a lively scene unfolded at a convent as Sister Marizele Rego and Sister Marisa Neves brought a refreshing twist to religious outreach. With break dancers performing acrobatics and a buzzing atmosphere fueled by a lowrider car's energetic sound system, the nuns were in the spotlight, recording a music video for their latest hit, “Vocation.” The catchy tune emerged after Sister Marizele beatboxed while both nuns showcased their dance moves on a popular Brazilian Catholic television show, leading to an unexpected viral moment.

The video burgeoned in popularity, garnering millions of views globally and inspiring numerous memes and parodies. Their rendition caught the attention of many, including Whoopi Goldberg, who likened them to a real-life “Sister Act” on ABC's “The View." This innovative approach highlights the Catholic Church's strategy to engage younger audiences by leveraging influencers, DJs, and social media to expand its reach and relevance in contemporary society. As the beat continues to resonate, the nuns are not just dancing—they are dancing their way into the hearts of young Brazilians, fostering a new connection with the faith amidst the modern cultural landscape.

Topics

More on this story