1945 or 1947 – The Church of Barquinha is Founded in the Brazilian Amazon Region
A Brazilian church centered on the consumption of ayahuasca emerged during the mid twentieth century. The church of Barquinha (The Little Boat) was founded by Daniel Pereira de Mattos (known as Frei Daniel) in the state of Acre in Brazil in 1945 or 1947. Frei Daniel had been a follower of Mestre Irineu, the founder of Santo Daime, and their division was amicable.
Frei Daniel had a vision in which two angels gave him instructions to found a Christian doctrine based on charity, with a practice of helping suffering souls by letting members incorporate them and lead them toward the light. Members would not practice full possession, which could be dangerous, but “irradiation” by these spirits, in a disciplined and protected way.
Frei Daniel reported his vision to Mestre Irineu, the leader of the popular Santo Daime churches, who told him that incorporation was not to be a part of his religion, but authorized Frei Daniel to form his own church. The Barquinha has made no effort to spread and remains confined to the state of Acre.
References
Mercante, M. S. (2002). A Study of Barquinha. Neip website.
