Ma`rifat Adyan

The phenomenon of "Third Wave Churches" in Latin America has grown significantly since the 1980s, ushering global Christianity into a new phase. In this stage, Pentecostal churches have distanced themselves from their classical theological boundaries and introduced new organizational and cultural elements into the religious and social sphere. Investigating the mechanism and consequences of the transition of these churches from small home gatherings to massive urban megachurches is the central question of this research. The aim of this article is a historical-social analysis of this change and transition, examining the factors influencing its expansion, and explaining its impacts on various dimensions of spiritual, social, cultural, and political life in Latin American societies. The research method is qualitative-comparative, involving document analysis, case studies in four countries (Brazil, Guatemala, Colombia, and Mexico), and a review of statistical and media sources. The research findings indicate that Third Wave churches, through the use of mass and digital media, transnational networking, and the promotion of prosperity theology, have become active actors in the political and economic spheres, gaining lasting influence in the public arena. Therefore, these churches are not merely a religious and theological movement but a significant factor in redefining cultural identity and the religious economy in Latin America.