25th Pentecostal World Conference – The Calgary Call
In August 2019 we in the PAOC, along with six Canadian member denominations of the Pentecostal World Fellowship and several other denominations and ministries, had the privilege of hosting the 25th Pentecostal World Conference in Calgary, Alta. The theme was “Spirit Now.” More than 3,000 delegates from over 70 nations experienced the impactful presence of the Spirit among us as we gathered as one family and lifted up the name of Jesus.
In the New Testament, we see that having “ears to hear” what the Spirit is saying regarding the future trajectory of the life of the church is primarily a corporate responsibility and exercise. A key aspect of this conference was to have a listening ear to what the Spirit is saying to the global church currently. To do so, we intentionally chronicled what was being communicated in each plenary, affinity and forum session, and then discerned the main themes that the Spirit addressed. We entitled the summary communiqué “The Calgary Call.”
As the listening body of Christ, we are committed to responding to the Spirit’s call in Calgary. I would invite you to prayerfully ponder what is stated in this declaration and to consider what steps of action you will pursue in obedience. Let those of us who have ears hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches. –David Wells, General Superintendent
THE CALGARY CALL
August 2019
Members of the Pentecostal World Fellowship met for the 25th global gathering in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, from August 27 to 30, 2019, to hear what the Spirit is saying to His Pentecostal church. Our cry: “Spirit Now.” Seventy-four nations gathered at the “family table,” with an appreciation for our shared Pentecostal history and experience. We affirmed the centrality of Jesus, the prominence of Scripture, the foundation of prayer, and the empowering presence of the Spirit in our movement.
THE SPIRIT’S CALL
WE HEARD THE CALL to greater unity as an intergenerational and culturally diverse family. We value everyone. Our shared Pentecostal experience brings together all generations and cultures. We are committed to respond to the prayer of Jesus to be brought to complete unity so that the world will know that the Father has sent Him.
WE CALL THE GLOBAL PENTECOSTAL FAMILY TO acknowledge and celebrate our oneness in Christ. In humility of spirit and submission to God’s leading, we recognize our divisions must be acknowledged and dealt with. Our unity in diversity helps us represent Christ to all. Therefore, we call for a new season of collaboration and partnership within Pentecostal churches and ministries worldwide.
WE HEARD THE CALL to anticipate and engage with the fresh ways the Spirit is working in our world. We cannot allow past experiences to restrict the work of the Spirit. We hunger for a refreshing wave of the Spirit which will reveal Jesus to the world.
WE CALL THE GLOBAL PENTECOSTAL FAMILY TO experience the fullness of the Spirit. We must be Pentecostal in both theology and practice, living in ways that are naturally supernatural. Therefore, we call church leaders to model Spirit-filled living and equip believers to experience His power and presence.
WE HEARD THE CALL for greater engagement with and obedience to God’s Word, and commitment to a life of prayer. It will shape our spiritual character and safeguard our integrity. We have been reminded that character is of greater value than charisma.
WE CALL THE GLOBAL PENTECOSTAL FAMILY TO be committed to biblical truth. A life of being doers of the Word and not hearers only is essential to fulfil our mandate to make disciples. Therefore, we call for a renewed commitment to the spiritual disciplines and practices of Bible reading, prayer and Spirit baptism.
WE HEARD THE CALL to intentionally participate together in the mission of God in power and love. We trust the gospel of Christ to powerfully transform individuals, families and communities in every nation.
We call the global Pentecostal family to renew our commitment to share the good news of Jesus, to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God. Therefore, every nation must be both a sending and a receiving nation.
WE HEARD THE CALL to a greater commitment to one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. We recognize that times of trial and persecution are being experienced by many within the global Pentecostal family. Though tested by fire, we are confident the Lord stands with His people.
We call the global Pentecostal family to stand with our brothers and sisters around the globe who are facing discrimination and persecution. Therefore, with increased awareness, we call for seasons of prayer and expressions of love in action.
WE HAVE HEARD what the Spirit is saying to the global Pentecostal Church. We commit to being faithful to what we have heard, and to intentionally move forward together until Jesus returns.
Dated this 30th day of August, 2019.
Signed by: The Pentecostal World Conference 2019 Host Committee