Brazil
Over the past decade, a growing number of Brazilians—many with roots in Bnei Anousim (descendants of Jews forced to convert during the Inquisition)—have rediscovered Judaism and formed their own vibrant communities. Found in cities like Goiania, Brasilia, Recife, and Natal, these groups often emerged outside the mainstream Jewish establishment and faced challenges in gaining recognition or access to formal conversion. With the help of Kulanu and grassroots efforts, these communities have developed strong Jewish identities, built synagogues, hosted Shabbat meals, and studied Torah together. Their passion, resilience, and inclusivity—especially in places like the Yad Eliyahu kibbutz-style community in Brasilia—represent a dynamic revival of Jewish life in Brazil.
Yad Eliyahu Community of Goiania, Goiás, celebrates havdalah, 2015
Location
Goiania, Brasilia, Natal, Recife, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro
Denomination
Judaism
Community size
100+
Languages
Portuguese
Kulanu Support Since
2014
Discover Brazil
A Kibbutz in the Heart of Brasilia
Tucked into the landscape of Brasilia, the Yad Eliyahu community has created a remarkable Jewish haven inspired by kibbutz values. At its center is a modest yet deeply spiritual synagogue, surrounded by shared homes, a guesthouse for visitors, vegetable gardens, and community gathering spaces. More than just a place of worship, Yad Eliyahu serves as a beating heart of Jewish life, offering immersive Shabbat experiences and a refuge from weekday pressures. Because of its layout, members and guests can fully honor Shabbat observance without travel, creating an authentic atmosphere of rest, song, and togetherness. It’s a living testament to how grassroots determination can shape vibrant Jewish spaces far from traditional centers.
Stories of Rescue and Return
Across Brazil, from Recife to Goiania, stories emerge of families who—without knowing their full heritage—kept alive curious customs for generations: lighting candles on Friday nights, whispering prayers in secret, avoiding pork, covering mirrors in mourning, or fasting on days that coincided with Jewish holy days. These were echoes of a silenced ancestry, preserved quietly through the centuries. As Bnei Anousim communities reconnect with their Jewish identity, these mysterious family practices suddenly make sense, fitting into the broader tapestry of Jewish tradition. What began as ancestral memory is now blossoming into a fully embraced Jewish life, with members studying Torah, building sukkahs, observing kashrut, and passing these rediscovered traditions on to their children with pride and clarity.
Kulanu’s Ongoing Support
Kulanu has walked alongside these communities since 2014, helping transform longing into learning, and spiritual hunger into active Jewish life. We provide more than just ritual items like prayer books, tallitot, and mezuzot—we offer connection, validation, and education. Through visits from Jewish educators, support for Hebrew language programs, and guidance on religious practice, Kulanu helps these communities feel seen and supported as part of the global Jewish people. In many places, we’re the first outside allies to honor their identity without question. That encouragement has been transformative—sparking the creation of new prayer groups, study circles, mikvah projects, and even inter-community gatherings across different cities. Kulanu remains a committed partner in their ongoing journey of Jewish revival, walking with them as they write a powerful new chapter in Brazil’s Jewish story.