Did the name “Mission Salut et Guérison” ever ring a bell for you? Here at L’Assemblée de Dieu, this very name sparked both fascination and controversy in its early days. L’Assemblée de Dieu, a Pentecostal Christian community, has a fascinating 50-year history in Mauritius. From its humble beginnings in a small hall in Beau-Bassin in 1967 to its current presence with 144 places of worship across the island, it has seen tremendous growth. Its story is intertwined with tales of miraculous healing, speaking in tongues, and a steadfast commitment to spreading the Word of God.
In the late 1960s, French missionary Aimé Cizeron arrived in Mauritius. He brought with him the Pentecostal movement. His mission, initially called “Mission Salut et Guérison,” quickly gained traction, particularly among those seeking healing and spiritual deliverance. Stories of people arriving in wheelchairs and leaving on foot spread like wildfire, drawing thousands to open-air services at places like the Cinema Hall in Rose-Hill and even the Champ-de-Mars.
L’Assemblée de Dieu’s practices, like speaking in tongues and faith healing, intrigued many. They also fueled skepticism and criticism from established religious institutions. Some dismissed it as a “Panadol religion,” accusing it of exploiting people’s vulnerabilities. Yet, for believers like Philippe Gentil, whose wife was healed of cancer, L’Assemblée de Dieu offered hope and a profound spiritual experience. The vibrant music and communal worship also played a key role in attracting converts. Many were drawn to the use of Creole and Bhojpuri in services. This made the message accessible to a wider audience.
The expulsion of Cizeron and other French pastors in 1972, though a setback, proved to be a turning point for L’Assemblée de Dieu. Mauritian pastors took the reins. They continued the mission with renewed vigor. The movement’s growth continued, spreading across the island. Today, L’Assemblée de Dieu boasts over 100,000 members from all walks of life, a testament to its resilience and appeal. It seeks official recognition as a religion, not for financial gain, but for the right to serve its community fully, offering spiritual guidance and support to those in need. L’Assemblée de Dieu attests to the power of faith and community. It remains a vibrant force in the diverse religious landscape of Mauritius.