Bispa Keila Ferreira, the wife of Bispo Samuel Ferreira and notable leader within the Assembleia de Deus do Brás, passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the age of 52. Her death has caused significant grief among church members and leaders across Brazil, as she was widely regarded as a pillar of strength and inspiration within the evangelical community.
According to reports from the Assembleia de Deus do Brás (AdBrás), the cause of Ferreira's death was sudden. Friends and family, alongside numerous church members, have expressed their sorrow over the unexpected loss. Ferreira was born on April 3, 1972, in Campinas, São Paulo, where she cultivated her unwavering faith and strong leadership from an early age.
Following her graduation from the Universidade Paulista with a degree in Law and her theological training at the Instituto Bíblico Ebenezer, Ferreira became involved actively with the Assembleia de Deus. Over the years, she played an instrumental role within the church, particularly focusing on women’s ministry as part of the Culto de Mulheres, which became one of the most significant gatherings for women seeking both support and growth within their faith.
Married to Bispo Samuel Ferreira for 34 years, she stood by his side as they developed the church's extensive outreach and initiatives, consolidifying its position as one of the most influential evangelical institutions in Brazil. The couple had two children: Pastor Manoel Ferreira Neto, now president of the Assembleia de Deus [in] Campinas, and Marinna Ferreira, who serves as an evangelist and leads the youth initiatives within the congregation.
Keila Ferreira also embraced her role as a grandmother to Samuel Cássio Ferreira Netto and Manoel Ferreira Júnior, sharing her wisdom and intricacies of faith with the next generation. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself not only to the church’s growth but also to social causes, spearheading projects aimed at assisting the needy and empowering women.
Tributes have poured in on social media from fellow pastors, prominent church figures, and countless congregants. Vanilda Bordieri, a well-known gospel singer, referred to Ferreira as both friend and mentor, noting the great void her absence creates. Samuel Messias echoed this sentiment, stating, "Your legacy of faith, love, and dedication to the work of God will remain alive in the hearts of all who were reached by your ministry."
Other church leaders, including Senator Damares Alves, expressed their sorrow, saying they felt "the heart break" upon hearing the news and prayed for the Ferreira family. Elaine de Jesus and Shirley Carvalhaes also shared heartfelt messages of love and remembrance, highlighting Ferreira’s nurturing spirit and commitment to serving others.
On the day of her passing, it was reported she succumbed to complications following what appears to have been a heart issue, possibly related to previous health concerns; her last public engagement occurred at the church's center at the beginning of November 2024. This pivotal moment marks not only the loss of Keila's physical presence but also the end of her vibrant contributions to the church's activities and outreach programs.
The Assembleia de Deus do Brás has announced arrangements for her funeral, where thousands of faithful members are expected to gather to pay their respects. They aim to honor her remarkable life and the lasting influence she had on the community. Following her death, there has been growing concern about the future of the Culto de Mulheres, as the church finds itself without one of its foremost leaders.
The influence of Keila Ferreira will undoubtedly resonate through future generations, as her acts of kindness and faith have left behind undying spirit among her congregation. Her commitment to her faith and the support of women within the church made her not only able to fulfill the responsibilities of her role but inspired countless others along the way.
While her physical absence creates palpable sorrow, the values she championed, including service, faith, and community support, will continue to guide the Assembleia de Deus do Brás moving forward. The church plans to uphold her legacy through renewed dedication to the social and ministerial projects she held dear.
Despite this heartbreaking loss, Ferreira’s enduring impact is certain. The congregation continues, united by shared grief and gratitude for the powerful testimony of her life. The legacy of Bispa Keila Ferreira highlights the significant role women play within evangelical contexts, paving the way for future leaders to rise and carry her mission forward.