Pro-Vida

What it is

Pro-Vida operates as an occultist group based in Brazil. Its founder describes it as a philosophical school that guides members toward a state called cosmic consciousness. This state is viewed as a universal harmony that readies individuals for the coming New Age. The group uses exclusive courses to share its teachings with those who pay. Members are promised a form of paradise on Earth. Scholars and critics often classify the organization as a cult or a new religious movement due to its structure and claims.

Where it comes from

The group was founded in 1979 by Celso Charuri, a medical doctor. Charuri established the headquarters in São Paulo, specifically in the affluent Alto de Pinheiros district. He later added a country club in Araçoiaba da Serra for wealthy members. The theology draws from Theosophy and the Human Potential Movement. It also shares similarities with Rosicrucian Order and Freemasonry but uses modern language. Charuri wrote a book titled Como vai a sua mente? to explain these origins.

How it is done

Members join through paid courses where the syllabus remains secret. The group collects tithes via a General Tithing Center. Charuri claims this payment follows an ancient law linked to Christ and the Adamic race. He states that paying allows entry into higher dimensions of existence. The Pyramid of Cheops is cited as proof of this rule. Practices include pantheism, clairvoyance and telepathy. These methods aim to alter personal consciousness.

Tools and materials

The organization relies on financial contributions known as tithes. Charuri references the Pyramid of Cheops as a historical document supporting their laws. The group uses the name of Jesus Christ while promoting ideas like levitation and psychometry. These concepts differ significantly from traditional Christian doctrine. The physical spaces include guarded buildings and gated communities.

What it is for

The main goal is to integrate people into a cosmic consciousness. Followers seek to escape ordinary reality for a more evolved existence. The group teaches that tithing is necessary for this spiritual advancement. Critics argue the message contradicts Christianity by promoting abstract beliefs. Members are encouraged to adopt skills like dowsing and psychic reading.

Who does it

Celso Charuri leads the organization as its founder. He trained as a gynecologist before starting the group. Members are typically drawn from the economic elite. They attend courses in secure locations. The leadership maintains strict control over information shared with participants.

Peoples and places

The movement is centered in Brazil, particularly in São Paulo. It attracts wealthy individuals who visit the country club in Araçoiaba da Serra. The group presents itself as a modern esoteric path. It blends various spiritual traditions into a single system.

What people believe

Pro-Vida teaches that cosmic consciousness leads to universal harmony. It combines Christianity, Kardecism and Blavatsky’s occultism. The theology promotes pantheism and psychic abilities. Charuri claims his teachings follow an ancient law predating Christ. This law requires tithing for spiritual elevation. The group views the New Age as an imminent era.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Observers often label Pro-Vida as a cult or sect. The group’s structure resembles other new religious movements. Its theology mirrors the Findhorn Foundation. Critics note the incompatibility with mainstream Christianity. The use of secret courses and financial demands raises concerns about exploitation.

Compare and confuse

Pro-Vida shares traits with Theosophy and Freemasonry. It differs by using updated language for modern elites. The group’s focus on tithing aligns with some churches. However, its occult practices set it apart from traditional faiths.

Law and persecution

The group operates legally in Brazil. No specific laws target Pro-Vida directly. Authorities monitor new religious movements for potential abuses. The organization maintains a public website and official presence.

Today

Pro-Vida continues to operate in São Paulo. It retains its headquarters and country club. The group still offers courses to paying members. Charuri’s writings remain central to its teachings. The organization adapts its message to attract contemporary followers.

Questions people ask about Pro-Vida

Good reading and sources

• Pró-Vida on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data