North American Congress on the Holy Spirit and World Evangelization (1986)

On October 8, 1986, the first North American Congress on the Holy Spirit and World Evangelization opened in New Orleans, Louisiana, drawing about 7,000 Christian leaders representing some 40 denominations. Convened in a season marked by doctrinal strain, moral confusion, and cultural pressure on churches, the gathering aimed to strengthen cooperation for the Great Commission. Rather than erasing differences, the congress sought common ground in Scripture, prayer, repentance, and renewed confidence in Christ’s saving gospel.

New Orleans and the Call to the Nations

New Orleans—an international crossroads shaped by commerce, migration, and cultural mixture—served as a fitting host city. In that setting, pastors, missionaries, evangelists, and lay leaders met with a shared burden for the unreached, the next generation, and communities drifting from biblical truth. Many came weary from long battles: shepherding congregations through division, resisting compromise, and persevering in quiet faithfulness. Their presence itself testified to steadfast courage and a willingness to labor for Christ without applause.

Emphases: Spirit, Gifts, Holiness, and Witness

The congress highlighted the Holy Spirit’s work in empowering proclamation, deepening holiness, and strengthening prayer. Charismatic experience and spiritual gifts were discussed not as spiritual novelty, but as resources meant to magnify Christ, build up the church, and press the gospel outward in love and order. Acts 1:8 was frequently echoed: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses…to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Leaders urged that true spiritual power is marked by humility, obedience, and moral purity.

Cooperation and Ongoing Influence

A defining feature was humble collaboration across traditions—listening carefully, worshiping together, and seeking God’s help rather than merely defending platforms. The congress encouraged believers to reject fear and recover bold, affectionate witness: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). Its legacy lies in calling churches to fresh dependence on God, courageous evangelism, and a unity shaped by truth, love, and shared mission.