“A shock wave of faith” is not how you might expect Washington D.C. to be described, but it’s exactly what happened in 1906. That shock wave began with a group of women. They read reports in the Azusa Street Mission’s Apostolic Faith newspaper. These women acted upon what they read. This led to the creation of an influential church in the District of Columbia, the Full Gospel Assembly.
Here, before us, stands a testament to that history: the Full Gospel Church. Its story is one of early Pentecostal-evangelical fusion. This fusion is a common element in today’s American evangelical religion. The Full Gospel Assembly’s beginnings are tied to the 1906 Azusa Street Mission revival.
Imagine, if you will, the Washington D.C. of the early 20th century. The Full Gospel Assembly faced challenges. It celebrated successes. It had an impact on the surrounding community.
Don Kammer, a retired United States Army chaplain, explored the church’s beginnings. He examined it as part of the early twentieth-century Pentecostal and Charismatic revival. Kammer identifies the challenges and successes. He describes the impact on the surrounding D.C. community.
The Full Gospel Assembly was an example of an early Pentecostal-evangelistic fusion. This was a common element in today’s American evangelical religion.
The Full Gospel Assembly met in various locations. These included theaters and even parlor houses. The Electric Street Railway Line played a role in their gatherings. The church’s history includes denominational influence.
Consider the popular, malign portraits of holy rollers and tongue talkers. The Full Gospel Assembly had to navigate these perceptions. Despite the challenges, the Full Gospel Assembly thrived. It became a vital part of the community.
Today, the Greater Fellowship Full Gospel Baptist Church continues this legacy. It started in 1987. Its mission is to love the lost and proclaim the Gospel. The church aims “to seek and to save that which was lost”.
The Greater Fellowship Full Gospel Baptist Church offers many services. These include Sunday morning services, growth groups, and children’s church. They also have bible study and prayer parties. The church provides ways to connect. You can find them online. You can also download their app.
As we stand here, let us reflect on the Full Gospel Church’s journey. From its roots in the Azusa Street Mission to its present-day form as the Greater Fellowship Full Gospel Baptist Church. This church has changed lives. It has been a beacon of faith. It continues to serve its community.