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A video featuring Brazilian nuns beatboxing and dancing hip-hop has captured global attention, amassing millions of views since it went viral on May 28. The clip, taken from a local TV show, features Sisters Marizele Isabel Cassiano Rego and Marisa de Paula Neves showcasing their unique approach to engaging with youth through music and dance.
The sisters appeared on a Catholic network show in Goiás state on May 20 to discuss a vocational encounter they were attending. During the program, Sister Marizele sang a song about God's calling while Sister Marisa danced. Their performance included beatboxing by Sister Marizele, adding a hip-hop flair that resonated widely on social media.
The video drew comparisons to the film "Sister Act," with actress Viola Davis sharing it on Instagram and Whoopi Goldberg commenting on ABC's "The View." Goldberg remarked, "Anytime you can praise the Lord with some music and you're doing your thing, I think it's a good sign."
Sisters Marizele and Marisa belong to the Sisters of the Copious Redemption congregation in Ponta Grossa, Paraná state. Founded by Redemptorist Father Wilton Lopes in 1989, their mission focuses on rehabilitating drug addicts. Each sister prays daily for addicts before the Blessed Sacrament.
Sister Marizele shared her musical background with OSV News: "I've learned how to sing with my family. My grandfather was a player of Caipira guitar." She developed her beatboxing skills independently and uses them creatively in evangelizing efforts.
Sister Marisa also embraces dance as part of her ministry. She began learning traditional rhythms before joining dance classes in ballet and street dance. Her experiences have helped attract children and teens to participate in cultural activities at their center.
Both sisters have noticed significant impacts from incorporating arts into their missionary work. They emphasize breaking down stereotypes about nuns being rigid or grumpy through music and dance.
"Our church is diverse. That is her beauty," said Sister Marisa regarding different styles within church groups that attract various people.
In Brazil, where Catholicism faces challenges from growing evangelical populations, charismatic renewal movements like those led by Sisters Marizele and Marisa offer potential pathways for revitalizing interest in the Catholic Church.
Since their video gained popularity, more individuals have shown interest in their congregation's work, including young people curious about beatboxing.
Eduardo Campos Lima reports for OSV News from São Paulo.
