The New Promised Land

A lengthy journey down the Amazon River leads to a remarkable discovery that harkens back to biblical times. Los Israelitas, an evangelical sect that blends early Christian beliefs with the pageantry of Hollywood cinema, live in small communities scattered along the banks of the river. Ezequiel Gamonal, the group’s founder, proclaimed that God chose him to establish the Amazon rain forest as The New Promised Land. Los Israelitas worship Jesus but reject Catholic doctrines and traditions instituted after the time of Constantine in the fourth century. They do not observe Christmas or Easter, and there are no crosses or representation of Jesus, Mary or Saints. Their well-worn bibles contain both the Old and New Testaments, and a large copy of the Ten Commandments is on display at the front of their sanctuary. They observe the Sabbath every Saturday with elaborate ceremonies. The men dress in flowing robes, and women wear their finest garb. Services begin early in the morning with bible readings, sermons, and the singing of hymns accompanied by music from a brass band. A hearty meal is served in the common dining room at midday, and the congregation then returns to the sanctuary for more prayers, hymns and readings. In a building adjacent to the sanctuary, the priests prepare an animal sacrifice, which may be a few doves, a lamb or even a full-grown bull. The sacrifice is carefully cleaned, rubbed with salt and anointed with olive oil. The priests then construct a large pyre on the altar outside of the sanctuary and place the offering on the flames, while the congregation gathers around to look on, sing and pray. Los Israelitas also hold week-long celebrations each year for the Old Testament holidays of Passover, Pentecost and the Feast of Tabernacles. These photos provide a glimpse into the rituals of Los Israelitas, a community that has melded ancient religious beliefs and practices with their daily lives deep in the Amazon rain forest.