God is moving in Camden, N.J. A stone’s throw from Philadelphia
across the Delaware River, Camden has been a prime example of urban
blight. Poverty, violence, prostitution and drugs have stalked its potholed
streets and vacant lots for a long time.
In 1998, about 275
people were baptized, compared with only four in 1996. More than
500 people have been saved in 31/2 years.
"This city has been impacted by the Holy Spirit and revival," says
Rafael Calderon, pastor of First Spanish Pentecostal Church of the Spanish
Eastern District of the Assemblies of God. "Crime was really strong,
and we started doing spiritual warfare to declare the city of Camden
for Christ."
Church members invaded street corners frequented by prostitutes. They
prayed and anointed the sidewalks with oil, claiming them for the Lord.
"Those corners have been cleansed," Calderon reports. "Where there was
prostitution the building was destroyed and now there is green land.
And the crime of the city has gone down."
The church hasn’t been the same since September 1997 when the
Holy Spirit hit a Tuesday evening men’s service like a bolt of
lightning. "All of a sudden the glory of God fell," Calderon says. "The
people started crying. They started falling to the ground." The service
stretched until 11:30 p.m. The pastor felt impressed by God to declare
a revival campaign that continues today.
In 1998, a total of 275 people were baptized, compared with only four
in 1996. More than 500 people have been saved in the past 31/2 years.
Sunday attendance has jumped from 200 to 750 worshippers. The service
begins at noon and can last five hours. Worship is vibrant and joyous.
Flags wave. Hands shoot heavenward. Tears flow, as God is exalted.
"Each service is led by the Holy Spirit," says Michelle Villanueva,
a youth leader. "We just broke through religion. We’re going all
out for Christ."
The revival has spilled over to young people, who are sharing their
faith and starting prayer clubs in schools. "Even though I was raised
in church, since revival has hit my life I have never been the same,"
says Joanna Vale. "I have the spirit of boldness to witness to friends.
I make sure that they know there is a difference between being religious
and Christian."
The Holy Spirit is drawing neighborhood residents into the church.
A member of the congregation reported that his car stalled in front
of the church every time he passed by. He attends regularly now.
Domingo Mateo’s wife, Yolanda, found salvation in Jesus after
a friend invited her to First Pentecostal three years ago. He owned
a discotheque and was curious about seeing the streets near the church
jammed with cars on Sundays. While driving by, he felt compelled to
go into a service. He gave his heart to the Lord after the pastor prayed
for him. He doesn’t own the disco anymore and attends the church’s
Bible institute. "Jesus signifies everything to me," he says. "I feel
like a new man."
The revival has impacted Maribel Delgado, a longtime church member.
"I would just come to church and that’s it," she says. "Now it’s
different. God has given me a desire for souls."
Pastor Calderon envisions building a church for 5,000 worshippers.
"The movement of God is glorious," he says.
