David Bridges
Many people believe that the era of Christian missionaries traversing the globe to share the Gospel and engage with local populations has ended. However, recent developments indicate that these efforts have simply evolved into more discreet methods.
A thorough investigation conducted by The Guardian alongside the Brazilian publication O Globo has uncovered that missionaries have been strategically placing solar-powered audio devices in the Javari Valley of Brazil, which is situated near the border with Peru. These devices are intended to reach isolated or recently contacted Indigenous Amazonian communities and play recordings of biblical passages in both Portuguese and Spanish.
For instance, one audio device identified by The Guardian broadcasts a message stating, “Let’s see what Paul says as he considers his own life in Philippians chapter 3, verse 4: ‘If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more.’” This method of evangelism raises significant ethical questions regarding its implications for the local communities.
The Javari Valley Indigenous Territory is known for having the highest concentration of uncontacted human groups globally. To safeguard these vulnerable indigenous tribes, Brazil’s National Foundation for the Indian (FUNAI) prohibited entry into the Javari Valley back in 1987. Despite this protective measure, reports from local residents indicate the presence of up to seven audio devices. The investigation managed to obtain photographic and video evidence of only one device—a small, yellow and gray gadget found in a Korubo village, which plays recordings by an American Baptist.
The Korubo people belong to a recently contacted group of Indigenous individuals recognized for their unique war clubs. According to the findings, the audio device is currently owned by a woman named Mayá, who is a member of the Korubo tribe.
This device, referred to as “Messenger,” is part of a broader initiative by the Baptist organization In Touch Ministries, which distributes these audio players to what they define as “unreached” populations globally. The investigation revealed that their official website prominently displays this audio device along with a variety of similar gadgets designed for evangelistic outreach.
According to the statements on their website, “What began with a solar-powered audio player containing the Bible and Dr. Stanley’s messages is now much more than a device. Wherever we go, we look for the right solution at the right time—whether it’s one of our proprietary devices or another tool—to ensure the message of salvation in Jesus Christ is accessible to those who have never heard.” This highlights the organization’s commitment to spreading their religious message.
However, Seth Grey, the chief operating officer of In Touch Ministries, conveyed to The Guardian that while he was aware of missionaries from other organizations who bring Messengers to areas where such actions are prohibited, he asserted, “we don’t go anywhere we’re not allowed.” This statement attempts to distance his organization from any potential legal or ethical violations.
It is crucial to remember that any attempts to contact isolated tribal groups carry the risk of transmitting severe diseases to communities that lack immunity. While the danger is significantly heightened during direct physical interactions, the act of leaving gadgets in the open still contravenes Brazil’s public policy aimed at protecting isolated Indigenous peoples from undue contact.
Brandon Fletcher
