A Brief History of the Apostolic Faith Mission in Ireland

The Apostolic Faith Mission Ireland is part of the worldwide Pentecostal movement whose modern history was profoundly influenced by the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles, USA. Beginning in 1906 under the leadership of William J. Seymour, the revival became known for fervent prayer, racial and social unity, the baptism of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts and a passionate commitment to world evangelism. From Azusa Street, the Pentecostal message spread rapidly across nations and continents. EBSCO’s history of the Azusa Street Revival⁠

Among those influenced by this spiritual awakening were John G. Lake and Thomas Hezmalhalch. In 1908, they travelled to South Africa and helped establish the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa. John G. Lake became the first General of the AFM, and the movement grew rapidly through its openness to the work of the Holy Spirit, its ministry of healing and its strong missionary vision. The AFM of South Africa officially traces its establishment to May 1908. AFM of South Africa history⁠

Through its missionary expansion, the AFM developed into an international Pentecostal family. The same spiritual heritage reached Ireland, where AFM Ireland was established in 2004. From its early beginnings, the church has remained committed to proclaiming Jesus Christ, making disciples, developing Spirit-filled leaders and establishing vibrant local assemblies.

AFM Ireland operates on an all-Ireland basis, serving communities in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Today, the church has growing assemblies in Dublin, Belfast, Dungannon and Derry. Although these assemblies minister within different cities and communities, they remain united as one national church in vision, doctrine, leadership and fellowship.

Each assembly carries out local ministry through worship, prayer, biblical teaching, evangelism, pastoral care, youth and children’s ministry, women’s and men’s ministries, and community outreach. The assemblies also come together for national gatherings, conferences, leadership development and major celebrations.

From Azusa Street, to South Africa, and from South Africa to Ireland, our history is a continuing testimony of the work of the Holy Spirit. As AFM Ireland continues to grow, our vision is to establish more assemblies throughout the island, raise a new generation of Spirit-filled leaders and take the whole Gospel to the whole of Ireland and beyond.

“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…to the end of the earth.” — Acts 1:8