Carnaval

Who doesn’t like a good party? Brazilian Carnaval is the biggest party in the world. It is foundational to the culture, and every Brazilian is affected by it. There is much laughter, much fun, and much exploitation.

Northeastern Brazilian Carnaval is made up of “Blocos,” groups of people who parade down the city streets. There is a lot of music, a lot of drinking, and a lot of sexuality. For some, this is fun. Some of the Blocos are “clean,” with a focus on children or even a church group that wants to reach out to their community. It can be a time of coming together and enjoying time off: no one knows how to relax or celebrate like a Brazilian.

But is Carnaval just for the rich? You get what you pay for. Those who cannot pay are catering to those who can—sometimes in dangerous ways. Carnaval in Brazil is the highest rate of tourism, prostitution, and alcohol consumption (and the resulting violence)  for the whole year. And what about the children?

The poorer children in Brazil cannot afford a colorful costume. They are not carefully monitored by their parents to have a safe time. Parents are often working or drinking during Carnaval, making them mostly on their own. Many sell candy or beer during Carnaval. Some wander around, looking for fun. Some are exploited, or put into dangerous situations.

Most Brazilians are careful about Carnaval, and monitor it to their taste: some getting away to a quite beach, some going in safe groups, some in careful participation. But most of those in poverty do not have that priviledge.
Help us give the children another option: many of the churches in Brazil are planning Carnaval camps. Please consider donating to Living Stones to help with costs for these children to attend the Carnaval church camp in safe beach locations, where they can enjoy themselves and grow, while being surrounded by godly influences and families who care about them.