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classes\u2019 (1999: 136). Droogers from the point of view of Willems\u2019 study on Brazilian Pentecostalism notes that, \u2018Pentecostalism is not only a response to an anomic situation, but at the same time it stimulates the growth of the middle class and therefore contributes to modernization\u2019 (1998: 11). Cleary says that in Chile 48 per cent of Pentecostals belong to the middle classes and affirms that in countries such as Guatemala, Brazil and Venezuela a \u2018substantial incursion into the middle class is evident (1999:136). Also the data of social strata in Guatemala presented at the beginning of this chapter shows the possibility of upward social mobility. The so called middle strata in 2004 underwent a certain type of social mobility. This data shows that both rising and falling within the same social strata is possible in period of fifteen years (United Nations, Guatemala 2005).\u000AOne of the ICV associate pastors who converted to the Neo-Pentecost\u2019s illustrates this sort of change. He testifies that both his marriage and his home were saved after his conversion. He says, \u2018our life had been very dramatic, to the point that we were about to get a divorce a few days later, I led an ungovernable life\u2019, then he emphases, \u2018When I went to the church God touched me and one day I accepted him. I believe that was when our life started to become blessed\u2019 (A4ICV). His testimony shows three important elements in his conversion: the \u2018touch of God\u2019, \u2018accepting\u2019 the new faith and the \u2018blessing\u2019 expressed in social and economic improvements. This dramatic change resulted in his family life, his economic situation and his later leadership being re-established. It affected his identity, life style and helped him to face successfully his social context. In his language, to be \u2018rescued by the grace of God\u2019, implies freedom from condemnation and the slavery of sin, and to be moved to the kingdom of God which brings with it good things or \u2018blessings\u2019.\u000ACleary points out that for the Pentecostal \u2018Conversion serves as the basis of living and of membership, stabilizes families, and impels those who have undergone it to reach out to others\u2019 (1999:140). Cant\u00F3n underlines that in Evangelical conversion, the conjunction between the transcendent and the daily events, and a personal and individual relationship with God and the commitment with the congregation occurs\u2019 (1998: 208).\u000A208\u000A


































































































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