In Porto, Portugal, well-known for its stunning beaches and renowned port wine, another unique aspect adds to its charm. Surf Church, located in the beachfront suburbs along the Atlantic coast, blends surfing with worship to spread the Gospel in a predominantly Catholic country that is now seeing a decline in religious affiliation, especially among the younger generation. Led by Rev. Samuel Cianelli, a Brazilian-born Portuguese surfer and ordained Baptist pastor, the church has attracted parishioners from over a dozen nationalities who share a love for both surfing and Jesus.

Established less than ten years ago, Surf Church has seen rapid growth, with members mostly belonging to Generation Z and millennials. The church’s motto, “We love waves. We love Jesus,” encapsulates their spiritual connection to the ocean while riding waves. Combining their passion for surfing with a desire for communal worship, members gather in a cozy living room adorned with surfboards to pray and sing after enjoying a surf session.

The church’s origins trace back to Cianelli and American missionary Troy Pitney’s vision of utilizing Portugal’s burgeoning surf culture to establish a unique religious community. Their unconventional approach includes avoiding traditional church settings and terminology, opting instead for a more inclusive and modern interpretation of church that emphasizes the importance of people over physical locations.

Surfing has a deep historical connection with spirituality, dating back to Hawaii where it was considered a sacred practice before being suppressed by missionaries. Today, surfing has evolved into a global phenomenon and a multibillion-dollar industry. Portugal, with its world-class surfing spots, has become a mecca for surfers from around the world, providing a fitting backdrop for Surf Church’s mission to combine faith with surfing.

Looking ahead, Cianelli envisions expanding the concept of surf churches to include various sports and activities that foster community and spiritual growth. With a focus on inclusivity, modernity, and a shared love for both surfing and religious faith, Surf Church represents a novel approach to bridging the gap between spirituality and recreation in a rapidly changing world.