THE INFLUENCE OF AZUSA STREET REVIVAL IN THE EARLY DEVELOPMENTS OF THE APOSTOLIC FAITH MISSION OF SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

This article examines the influence of Azusa Street Revival in the early developments of the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) of South Africa. The link between AFM and Azusa Street Revival came through the American Missionaries, John G Lake and Thomas Hezmalhach who prior to their trip to South Africa had contact with William Seymour of the Azusa Street Revival, Los Angeles. Azusa Street Revival was characterised by Spirit baptism with the evidence of speaking in other tongues, miracles and other ecstatic spiritual experiences. Upon their arrival in South Africa, John G Lake and Thomas Hezmalhach used Central Tabernacle Congregation as a place of fellowship. Meetings in this congregation were characterised by similar acts to what happened at Azusa Street Revival, Los Angeles.