The MS13 gang and the Pentecostal Church appear to be polar opposites. But some similarities unite them. Both demand rigid discipline and utter devotion. And, within their power structure, they both contain elements that perpetuate inequality, abuse and discrimination.
In this investigation, InSight Crime focuses on the stories of Elvis and Flaca, two former gang members who left the MS13 for the church. Their experiences with violence, abortion and homosexuality reflect both what divides and unites these two ways of life.
Investigation Chapters
The Gospel of Man, in Church and Gang
The MS13 gang and the Pentecostal Church are two worlds seemingly at odds. One man, known as Elvis, has a foot in both.
The MS13 Will Never Be a Gang for Women
Flaca was devoted to the MS13. But after suffering violence, abuse and rape, she turned to the one escape open to her: religion.
