In the quiet village of Laundos, a unique beat pulses through the night. The source? Father Guilherme Peixoto is a 49-year-old priest passionate about electronic dance music. Known to many as the “DJ Priest,” Peixoto has gained international fame for his unique mission: spreading hope through the power of music.
On a lively Friday evening, hundreds of young and old people gathered in Laundos for the “Ar de Rock” festival. Donned in his black clerical collar, Father Peixoto took to the DJ booth. His eclectic mix of techno and religious music set kicked off with Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, setting the tone for a night of unity and inspiration.
“Creating a safe space starts with the music you play, the energy you transmit, and the message you share,” Peixoto said. As the night wore on, festival-goers approached him for selfies and conversations, drawn by his infectious energy and positive message.
Peixoto’s influence extends far beyond Laundos. With over 900,000 Instagram followers, he performs at top venues worldwide. Recently, he played at Hi Ibiza, a renowned nightclub, and has upcoming concerts in Italy, Spain, and Switzerland. His dedication to music even led him to seek a blessing for his headphones from Pope Francis during a 2019 visit to the Vatican.
“Music unites us,” he declares, a belief that has guided him since his seminary days. His journey into DJing began during a 2010 deployment as a military chaplain in Afghanistan, where he organized social events for soldiers. Upon returning to Portugal, he enrolled in DJ school and has blended beats ever since.
“Being a priest means being among people and showing them that their values remain intact, even if they go out at night to party,” Peixoto explained. His commitment to his dual roles is evident. He officiated a wedding the morning after the Laundos party, trading his DJ gear for a white robe and Bible.
Father Peixoto weaves a message of Christ, tolerance, faith, and love in every set he plays. His unique blend of spirituality and modern music inspires and brings hope to all who hear his beats.
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