a contextual missiology of the spirit - eTheses Repository ...

The current research focuses on two major areas where global Pentecostal
influence is apparent. The first is its influence on local worship. According to
Simon Coleman, worship patterns of ‘charismatic Christians display striking
parallels.’ 47 Spirit experiences like glossolalia, healing, exorcism, exuberant
worship and spontaneous prayer are part of Pentecostalism in Rajasthan, as in any
other parts of the world. The language of the report of the 2007 annual gathering
of FFCI includes some typical Pentecostal phrases and practices, similar to those
used by Pentecostals generally. The title of the report, ‘Celestial Celebration of
Saints,’ itself shows the same thing. The report states:
Navapur convention is known for its distinct flavour of jubilant worship.
Sangeeta Awale (Mumbai), Pastor Paul Mathews and Filadelfia Bible College
Choir led God's people into dynamic and inspirational music. The Holy Spirit
united the people to enjoy the Lord with voices resounding, bodies moving, and
flags waving. The energy of the crowd was so great in praise that the earth was
literally moved. Miracles flowed as the Spirit made inroads into even the most
hardened of hearts; and worship reached jubilant heights of freedom with
dignified pastors and elders even kicking off their shoes, linking arms, and
dancing to the sound of joyful songs of praise! There were times that the praises
of God so took over that many lost the sense of time. 48
The report includes an account of the women’s meetings as well. It says,
‘women’s meetings were characteristic of the spontaneous praise, adoration, life
changing testimonies, and authoritative word by anointed women.’ 49
47
Coleman, Globalization of Charismatic Christianity, 67.
48
‘Celestial Celebration,’ 12. Italics mine. For more details of the report, see pp. 11-16.
49
‘Celestial Celebration,’ 13.
246