Assemblies of God in India Celebrates Centennial

In early June, thousands of Indian believers gathered in Chennai to celebrate 100 years of Assemblies of God ministry in their country.

As the Fellowship marked their centennial, they noted the ministry of individuals like Pastor A.C. Samuel, Mark and Hulda Buntain, Pastor Solomon Wasker and David and Beth Grant, and the roles they played in establishing, growing and serving the Assemblies of God in India.

The second largest nation in the world, 80 percent of India’s people claim Hinduism as their religion. But the Assemblies of God has experienced consistent growth and increased acceptance. To honor the centennial celebration, the Indian Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp recognizing the legacy of the India AG.

Looking to the next century, the Assemblies of God India continues to dedicate itself to raising up the next generation as followers of Christ, reported David Mohan, general superintendent of Assemblies of God India. Since their beginning in 1916, AG India has planted over 5,200 recognized churches and 6,000 house churches. They have sent out over 600 missionaries and trained more than 8,000 leaders, including more than 2,500 trained ministers today.

“All over India, the power of God is really moving,” Mohan said. “God is doing a great work, and we are seeing a move of God and revival in this nation. Let us all join together, work together, to train more workers. We must put our hearts together to reach this nation for the glory of God.”

The India AG has established a goal of planting 25,000 new churches by the year 2020.

“Today we continue to see that the Assemblies of God of India is a strong and vibrant part of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship,” said George Wood, general superintendent of the U.S. General Council of the Assemblies of God. “It is with great joy that I express our heartfelt congratulations at your reaching this milestone of 100 years. We look forward to what God has in store for the Assemblies of God in India in the coming years.” 

Assemblies of God World Missions leaders offered their congratulations and encouragement.

“Pastor David Mohan and the India AG have established one of the most effective church planting initiatives in the world,” says Omar Beiler, AGWM Eurasia regional director.

“In this nation of more than a billion people,” adds AGWM Executive Director Greg Mundis, “our fellow believers share our commitment to reach, plant, train and serve so all can hear the saving message of Jesus.”

Kristin Wileman Sheldon

Kristin Wileman Sheldon is a writer who specializes in faith and rural development topics. A graduate of North Central University, she has written extensively for high-profile government and business leaders, and has created content for The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Worldview magazine. Wileman lives in central South Dakota.