Ministério Refúgio

Ministério Refúgio formed around Pastor Márcio Valadão in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, with his siblings André and Mariana among the early members. The group's name means 'refuge,' which points to their focus on spiritual comfort. They started within an Assemblies of God church there, making music that blends contemporary worship with some Brazilian rhythms.

Their 2009 album 'Lugares' includes the song of the same name, which became particularly well-known in Brazilian Christian circles. Other albums like 'Eu Creio' from 2005 and 'Glória' from 2007 followed a similar path of emotive, anthem-like worship music. The lineup has included several Valadão family members over time, with Márcio on lead vocals and guitar.

Some in more conservative evangelical circles initially criticized their modern approach, but they kept recording and performing. Their discography is fairly extensive, with releases like 'O Deus que Faz' in 2011 and 'Manifesta' in 2016. The music tends to be straightforward in its message, aiming for congregational singing rather than complex arrangements.