ERESB 2018 in Santa Bárbara, MG
11th ERESB – 6th Estação Cultural
The Encontro Regional dos Evangélicos de Santa Bárbara (ERESB), the Regional Gathering of Evangelicals of Santa Bárbara, reached its 11th edition in 2018, reaffirming its relevance as one of the largest faith and culture events in the Serra do Caraça. Held from September 14 to 16, the event was part of the 6th Estação Cultural (Cultural Station) program, offering three days of worship, art and Christian fellowship at the Praça da Estação (Station Square).
Organized by the Santa Bárbara City Hall, through the Department of Culture and Tourism Development, in partnership with the Associação Evangélica do Projeto ERESB (AEPE), the gathering brought together churches, musicians, pastors and hundreds of believers from the region in an atmosphere of celebration and praise.
Faith, music and worship
The official opening took place on Friday, September 14, with a special night of praise and artistic performances. The audience enjoyed dance, theater and inspiring messages delivered by Pastor Cibele, who moved everyone with words of faith and encouragement. Bands and music ministries from local churches also performed, leading the public into moments of intense collective worship.
On Saturday, September 15, the program continued with cultural performances and a sermon by Pastor Ricardo, of the Presbyterian Church. The high point of the night was the show by the worship ministry Diante do Trono, led by Ana Paula Valadão, who performed well-known hits such as "Aos Olhos do Pai", "Preciso de Ti" and "Te Agradeço". The band, celebrating 20 years of career, drew a huge crowd to the Praça da Estação, turning it into a true open-air temple of worship.
Culture and music in the Serra do Caraça
Closing the program, Sunday, September 16, featured the FUNCEC Big Band Orchestra, from João Monlevade. Conducted by maestro Rogério Moreira Campos, the orchestra delighted the audience with a repertoire of Brazilian and international classics, including "Travessia", "Aquarela Brasileira" and "New York, New York".
Like Diante do Trono, the Big Band Orchestra was also celebrating two decades of history, bringing the town a vibrant performance that connected generations and musical styles. This diversity reinforced the role of the Estação Cultural as a space where faith and art come together, highlighting the cultural potential of the Serra do Caraça.
A gathering that inspires and unites
More than a religious event, the 11th ERESB was a milestone in valuing spirituality and local culture. The unity of the churches, the involvement of families and the commitment of the participating institutions showed the power of faith to promote harmony and solidarity.
The event established Santa Bárbara as an important center of cultural and Christian expression, showing that music and religion go hand in hand in building a more inspiring and welcoming town.
