Presidential Election

It is difficult for me to understand the political situation and government of Brazil, but I am learning little by little. Two weeks ago was election day here. For many weeks leading up to that there were all sorts of advertisements, signs, and vehicles blaring catchy jingles with the name of their candidate.  They also put pamphlets and fliers in everyone's gate, sometimes twenty or thirty at a time! One man, named William Woo, put out giant "thumbs up" statues with his info. Evidently it was a good tactic, because all three of my boys know him by name!

There are at least 27 different political parties, so there are MANY candidates. Some can be clearly eliminated by the party they are associated with, but there are still many to choose from. 

Jose Serra

Two weeks ago was the general election. Since no one presidential candidate won 51% of the vote, they will have another election in two weeks, on October 31st, between the top two candidates. These two candidates are Dilma and Jose Serra.

Dilma

Jose Serra is not what we would call extremely conservative, but has much better values and ideas than Dilma, who is a strong socialist/communist. She has very liberal ideas, and has plans to begin taxing churches on tithes and offerings, as well as restricting what can be preached in churches, on the radio, and on the internet. The current president, Lula, is promoting Dilma which has made her quite popular. However, the media predicted a clean sweep for her in the first election, and that didn't happen.

Dilma recently stated, "Not even Jesus Christ can keep me from winning this election." I am praying, that for God's glory and honor, this statement would be proven wrong! Please help us pray for God's will in this election, and pray for the country of Brazil to maintain the religious freedom it now has.