World Assembly of God Congress 2023, Madrid, Spain
By Rev Jason Tan, Zion Full Gospel Church
The World Assembly of God Fellowship held its ninth Congress in 2023.
Hosted by the Spain Assemblies of God (AG), it was held at the Madrid Arena from October 12 to 14. The congress occurs every three years, and it is a gathering of AG leaders and pastors worldwide.
‘SHINE’ is the theme chosen for this congress. Based on Isaiah 60:1-3 it calls for global AG to shine for Jesus Christ in all aspects of our society and culture. In the opening address, Rev Dr David Mohan urged the fellowship to rise from their comfort zone. He inspired World AG to become a shining light through Spirit-led visions and goals. He was followed by Rev Dominic Yeo, who shared the strategic vision of MM33. He stressed the importance of every AG member holding onto God’s mandate and living it out as a primary mission. Together with Rev Dr David, they committed to move MM33 into its adoption phase – a call to church planting with a target of one million AG churches by 2033. Rev Younghoon Lee delivered the final plenary session on the first day. He talked about the church’s ability to transform nations. Rev Lee spoke about the importance of prayer, repentance, and the power of the Holy Spirit. He highlighted that these three elements are the key to unlocking the nation’s revival. Many responded to receive the fresh fire of the Spirit’s baptism and a renewed thirst to use the power gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Various workshops were held at the same facility over three days. These workshops addressed a variety of needs throughout the AG World Fellowship. Some examples of these workshops included “The Fundamentals for Revival and Expansion of the AOG”, “Parents in Education”, “Gospel and Humanism”, “How to create environments for the Next Gen to flourish”, etc. The workshops provided attendees practical guidance on the next steps and inspired participants to consider alternatives and broaden their perspectives on ministerial involvement.
One example of a workshop is “Transformative Discipleship”, conducted by Rev Dr David Kim, President of Valley Forge University. In this workshop, Rev Dr David urged attendees to reconsider the fundamental emphasis of the Great Commission found in Matthew 28. He submitted that the Great Commission should not be limited to a missional focus – ‘go’. Instead, it also carries a strong mandate to make disciples.
Concurrently, while some workshops took place, the NextGen gathered for passionate worship and engagement with His Words. Speakers for the Next Generation sessions included Rev Gerald Tan, Dr Andres Arango, Rev Dominic Yeo, Rev Varghese, and many others. Topics discussed included honor culture and practical tools for dealing with depression and anxiety. Through observation, new friendships were established between nationalities, and many young people felt God’s presence in the Congress. The SHINE organizing committee made an effort to cater to the needs of the children at the Congress. They customize programs with vibrant colors, songs, and fun-filled Bible activities tailored to engage kids throughout the entire Congress.
The exhibition stands at the Congress were also a highlight. Many ministries and Christian organizations affiliated with AG took the opportunity to set up booths to network with the congress delegates. It was also a platform for many to showcase their ministry works and provide updates on their latest developments. Exhibitors included Royal Rangers International, Public Reading of Scripture, Convoy of Hope, etc. A notable exhibitor is The Bible Engagement Project, a complimentary non-formal AG Christian education resource utilizing mobile application technology. This discipleship program is developed in Springfield, Missouri, and intentionally aligns with AG’s tenets and beliefs. This free small-group discipleship resource is suitable for any AG local church and is designed for kids, preschoolers, youths, adults, and families.
During the closing address, Rev Dominic Yeo urged World AG to keep winning souls and making disciples. In so doing, the church can preserve its’ existence and prevent extinction. He exhorted that there is a promise of blessings, provision, and restorations through generations. Finally, the need for generation transfers not just for a now–lifetime but a lifeline. Therefore, a lifeline of generations will be able to experience His promises.
The new executive council for the World Assembly of God Fellowship was officially introduced by Rev Dr David Mohan at the conclusion of the congress. Rev Dominic Yeo was elected as the Chairman, Rev Doug Clay as Vice-Chairman, and Rev Juan Carlos Escobar as the Secretary. He prayed for the new office bearers, believing for a fresh fire of revival within their hearts and success in their ministry endeavors, to see MM33 fulfilled – one million AG churches by 2033. Rev Dominic Yeo announced that the 2026 congress would be held in Ghana, West Africa, and the 2023 host, Rev Juan Escobar, closed the congress with a prayer for the new WAGF 2026 host nation.
AG Times congratulates General Superintendent Rev Dominic on his appointment as Chairman of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship. May God’s wisdom and exceeding favor be upon Rev Dominic as he leads The World Assemblies of God Fellowship.
