Perhaps surprisingly, the Assemblée de Dieu in Port Louis began with a vision. This vision sought to bring people closer to the teachings of the Gospel. It all started in the 1960s.
The Assemblée de Dieu de Maurice recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. This religious association started from almost nothing. Now it includes 144 churches across Mauritius. It claims more than 100000 faithful followers.
Pastor George Leste is the president of the Assemblée de Dieu. He shared that the movement began with small groups of Christians. These groups wanted to return to a faith more aligned with the teachings of Jesus Christ. These groups greatly valued Pentecost. They became known as Pentecostals.
In the early 20th century the movement gained momentum. It began with a prayer camp in Kansas. Then it spread throughout the United States. Official churches did not welcome this growth. They expelled members who attended these prayer meetings. Those expelled created their own churches. Many converts followed their doctrine. Today, the Assemblée de Dieu has over 97 million members. It has hundreds of thousands of churches worldwide.
The Assemblée de Dieu movement does not have a pope or central authority. It is made up of people from all races. They recognize the Bible especially the New Testament. Each country has its own organization and autonomy. The presidents of each country attend a world convention every four years.
In Mauritius, the national movement is managed by five members. They are elected annually. A representative from the electoral commissioner oversees the elections. There is also a pastoral body. This body includes all pastors.
Becoming a pastor in the Assemblée de Dieu requires a calling from the Lord. One must improve their knowledge of God’s Word through study and practical work. Those with a deep vocation serve others. They explain the Bible and its teachings.
The Assemblée de Dieu faced early challenges. It was initially considered a sect. This label carried a very negative meaning. The church has fought against this definition. It asserts itself as a church of believers celebrating the Word of God.
Today, Christian authorities recognize the Assemblée de Dieu. Its anniversary celebration included the Catholic cardinal plus Anglican and Presbyterian bishops. Other Christian churches now see it as a brother. Initially, other churches did not understand the movement. This misunderstanding led to the sect label and opposition. Over time, they realized the Assemblée de Dieu was a solid church with many believers.
The Assemblée de Dieu did not seek to recruit members from other churches or religions. Instead, it aims to show truth and light. It explains how faith can heal. It offers a fresh start for a better life. People find resonance in its approach to the Word of God. They connect with its prayer and way of life. Those who left other faiths testify to what they have found. The Assemblée de Dieu lives harmoniously with its neighbors. Its message of God attracts people.
The Assemblée de Dieu uses offerings from believers as its sole funding source. These offerings are voluntary and not mandatory. There is no requirement to give ten percent of one’s salary. Believers can give what they want. They can also choose to give nothing.
In 1967, Aimé Cizéron achieved rapid success in Mauritius. He attracted crowds. He repeated the message of Jesus and his apostles. Services began in a Beau-Bassin hall. Then they moved to Port Louis. Word spread. Crowds grew to hear the Word of God and receive the laying on of hands. People were healed. Others were freed from evil spirits.
The Assemblée de Dieu continues to grow and evolve. It remains focused on spreading the Word of God. It seeks to bring positive change. It strives to foster solidarity within Mauritius.