Roberto Firmino Ordained as Pastor Following Co-founding Manah Church

Brazilian footballer Roberto Firmino has been ordained as an evangelical pastor, marking a significant milestone in his spiritual journey. This comes three years after Firmino co-founded the Manah Church in his hometown of Maceio. Alongside his wife Larissa Pereira and pastors Jairo Fernandes and Keila Medeiros, Firmino established the church in 2020, with a focus on spreading the message of his faith.

The ordination ceremony, which took place on Sunday, June 30, was shared by Firmino on his Instagram account where he described the event as ‘memorable and unforgettable’. In his post, Firmino expressed deep gratitude for the growth of the church since its inception and highlighted the role of faith in shaping their lives and responsibilities as pastors.

Firmino’s journey as a professional athlete is well-documented, particularly during his eight-year tenure at Liverpool where he was pivotal in the team’s successes. Having won numerous trophies including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, Firmino’s transition to a pastoral role adds a new dimension to his life off the field.

Despite his newfound role as a pastor, Firmino has not hung up his football boots. Currently playing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, the 32-year-old forward still has two years remaining on his contract, balancing both his sporting career and his commitment to the church.

In 2020, Firmino was baptized in a ceremony held at the residence of his former Liverpool teammate Alisson Becker, showcasing his public declaration of faith. This spiritual journey underscores Firmino’s deep-rooted beliefs and his desire to serve both on the field and in the community as a spiritual leader and athlete.