The Diocese of Nova Iguacu in face of the slaughter in Baixada Fluminense - Rio de Janeiro State: memory and identity

This article evaluates changes in the Catholic religious universe in the Nova Iguacu Diocese, located in Baixada Fluminense, in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro State, a region known for its high level of poverty and violence, specially for the presence of extermination groups. The basis for the investigation of those changes is an event called 'Chacina da Baixada' (Slaughter in the Baixada), when 29 persons were killed and one was hurt in Posse District, in that city. The Diocese promptly showed its solidarity to the victims' families, calling for the local authorities' attention and help. However, opinions about the ecclesial involvement were divided according to the proximity of religions agents, mainly lay ones, to the area of the murders. Thus, those living and working near that area seem more reticent, quiet and frightened than the interviewed laymen from other communities. So, one concludes that, despite the consensus as to the necessity of mobilization of the Diocese concerning the crimes, some members are affected by the fear that dominates the inhabitants of that district in their daily life.