The Rosário da Madrugada, led by Frei Gilson, is captivating thousands of faithful during Holy Week at Canção Nova, a prominent religious community in Cachoeira Paulista, São Paulo. This nightly prayer ritual, which has been a part of the community's Lenten observances, has attracted millions of views online, connecting believers from around the world.
Since the start of Lent, the Rosário has become a significant spiritual event, drawing attention not only for its spiritual depth but also for its impressive online reach. The prayers commenced on Monday, April 14, 2025, and will continue until Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. During this time, attendees have the opportunity to join Frei Gilson in person, as the community welcomes all who wish to participate in these sacred moments.
From Tuesday, April 15, 2025, through Thursday, April 17, 2025, the Rosário will begin at 3:45 AM at the Santuário Pai das Misericórdias, which can accommodate up to 5,000 participants. On Good Friday, April 18, Holy Saturday, April 19, and Easter Sunday, the prayer sessions will be held at the Centro de Evangelização, a larger venue that can host 20,000 pilgrims.
The live broadcasts of the Santo Rosário are streamed on Frei Gilson's social media platforms and on TV Canção Nova, reaching millions of viewers daily. The early morning hours have been chosen for their significance during Lent, as many Christians view the quiet of the night as a powerful time for prayer and reflection.
Frei Gilson, a member of the Carmelita Mensageiros do Espírito Santo, has gained a massive following through his online prayer sessions, which have become a beacon of hope and faith for many. In one notable live stream, he attracted approximately 1.3 million viewers, showcasing the deep connection he has established with his audience. His ability to unite people from various backgrounds through the Santo Rosário has solidified his status as one of Brazil's leading religious figures on social media.
On the 37th day of Lent, the Santo Rosário continues to draw thousands of participants. This communal prayer not only serves as a moment of individual reflection but also fosters a sense of collective faith among believers. Frei Gilson emphasizes that this unity is both human and divine, believing that divine intervention inspires many to rise early and pray together.
Frei Gilson's popularity is further enhanced by the technology he utilizes to reach his audience. His live streams are available on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, allowing followers to join the prayers from the comfort of their homes. The "Oração Play!" app also provides various spiritual resources, making it easier for users to engage with religious content.
In his recent sermons, Frei Gilson has also addressed deeper spiritual themes, including the importance of vigilance against temptation. During a sermon on April 15, 2025, he warned the faithful about the diabolical plots that can lead them astray, drawing parallels to the betrayal of Judas Iscariot. He stated, "The betrayal of Judas reveals our betrayals. Every traitor has a sign. The sign of Judas's betrayal was a kiss, a feigned affection. If you pretend to be a person of God, you are behaving like Judas." This poignant message resonated with many attendees, as he called on them to remain steadfast in their faith.
Frei Gilson's reflections during the Holy Week camp are not only about personal spirituality but also about community. He encourages participants to share their prayer requests and experiences, creating a supportive network among the faithful. The presence of fellow friars and special guests, including musicians and other religious leaders, enriches the experience, adding layers of meaning to the prayers.
The Santo Rosário is a traditional Christian devotion that consists of reciting specific prayers while meditating on the mysteries of the lives of Jesus and Mary. It is divided into four sets of mysteries: Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious, and Luminous, each focusing on significant events in Christian history. This practice has evolved over centuries, becoming a vital aspect of Catholic spirituality.
Frei Gilson, who has been a priest since December 7, 2013, is not only a spiritual leader but also a singer who has made a name for himself in Brazil. His YouTube channel boasts over seven million subscribers, making it one of the most popular religious channels in the country. His music, along with his engaging sermons, has garnered him a substantial following on social media, where he continues to inspire and uplift his audience.
As the Holy Week progresses, the Canção Nova community remains a hub of spiritual activity, with Frei Gilson leading various events and masses. The Rosário da Madrugada serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, community, and the enduring power of prayer. With a growing number of followers and participants, the Santo Rosário is set to continue its legacy as a cherished tradition within the Catholic faith.
For those interested in joining the Santo Rosário, it can be accessed live on YouTube, Facebook, and through the "Oração Play!" app, with sessions typically starting at 3:40 AM during Lent. This digital accessibility ensures that the spirit of the Rosário reaches beyond physical boundaries, allowing anyone to partake in this profound spiritual experience.
