Here at the AFM Church a story of faith unfolds. The AFM Church stands for Apostolic Faith Mission. It is a testament to resilience and unity.
Founded in 1908 the AFM Church emerged as a beacon of Pentecostal Christianity in South Africa. American missionaries John G Lake and Thomas Hezmalhalch brought the movement here. They ignited a spiritual fire that quickly spread across the nation. The AFM Church became the first and largest Pentecostal church in South Africa.
Initially the AFM Church embraced an interracial character. It mirrored the spirit of the Azusa Street Revival. However like many institutions of the time the AFM Church faced the pressures of racial segregation. South Africa’s social politics deeply influenced the AFM Church.
Over time the AFM Church divided into four sections. These were white mixed race Indian and black. This division reflected the racial segregation prevalent in South Africa. The white section held the most power. The black section was the most marginalized. This inequality caused much dissatisfaction among black pastors. Many started their own churches.
Despite the divisions the spirit of unity persisted. The black mixed race and Indian sections united. They formed the composite division. The white section remained independent. This was a step toward a single unified church.
Under the leadership of Frank Chikane and Isak Burger the AFM Church moved towards unification. These leaders saw a possibility of a united AFM. They made sacrifices to accommodate each other. In 1996 the AFM Church finally united. It became one single body. This marked the end of racial divisions within the church.
The united AFM Church adopted a new constitution. This ensured equal footing for all members. The church embraced its diversity. It worked to heal the wounds of the past.
Today the AFM Church stands as a symbol of reconciliation. It demonstrates the power of faith to overcome division. The AFM Church has grown. It now has 1.4 million members in South Africa. It has also spread to 28 countries worldwide.
The AFM Church is deeply rooted in the Pentecostal tradition. It emphasizes the baptism in the Holy Spirit. It encourages believers to live dynamic lives. Members strive to demonstrate the love and power of Jesus Christ. The AFM Church is a missional church. It seeks to saturate communities with the presence of God.
The AFM Church values integrity relationships and accountability. It encourages excellence in all activities. The AFM Church celebrates its unity. It embraces its God-given diversity.
The logo of the AFM Church features the cross and the crown. These symbols represent the core beliefs. The AFM Church strives to be a New Testament church. It seeks to continue the mission of the early apostles.
English is now the official language of the AFM Church. This change reflects the church’s commitment to unity. It provides a common ground for all members. The AFM Church encourages cultural sensitivity. It promotes appreciation of cultural diversity.
The AFM Church has a rich history. The AFM Archive contains items such as John G Lake’s Bible and personal diary. It also includes the first minute book of the Executive Council of 1908. Researchers from around the world come here. They explore the unique history of the AFM Church.
Standing here you witness the legacy of the AFM Church. The AFM Church is a testament to faith unity and the enduring power of the human spirit.