The Potter's House

Pentecostal churches have a unique history in that they were the first interracial churches in the United States. In the early 1900's, one of the biggest churches that contributed to the spreading of the Pentecostal faith, the Azusa Street Mission in Los Angelos; held services that were ethnically diverse. The denomination, Potter's House Christian Fellowship, is a church that was founded by Pastor Wayman Mitchell and split from the Foursquare Pentecostal church in the late '60's. It experienced a large surge of growth during the Jesus People Movement. The unique denomination now has over 2,000 congregations worldwide. 

They believe "The Holy Spirit is God, the Lord and giver of life, who was active in the Old Testament, and given to the Church in fullness at Pentecost."

GOD'S FIRE NEVER BURNS OUT

The name of the church came from a biblical reference: 
The Lord spoke his word to Jeremiah. He said, “Go to the potter’s house. There I will give you my message” ~ Jeremiah 18:1-2

Pentecostal religions have several distinct traditions - Glossolalia or speaking in tongues, Baptism with the Holy Spirit (salvation), and Revivals.  Glossolalia is believed to be a person being filled with the Holy Spirit, there are generally three types:

1. Tongues as a Sign to Nonbelievers - Acts 2:11
2. Tongues for the Strengthening of the Church - Requires Interpretation - 1 Corinthians 14:5
3. Tongues as a Private Prayer Language - Romans 8:26, 1 Corinthians 14:4 

I attended the Albuquerque Potter's House Christian Center 6pm Sunday Service. In jeans and a sweater, I was underdressed. Almost all of the women wore dresses and the men wore dress shirts, slacks, and a tie or even suits. 

The service opened up with lively group singing and prayers. During the prayers, the pastor and people in the audience spoke in tongues at times. 


Pastor Lee Wilson gave the sermon. He spoke of believers being a light in the World ~ the smallest of lights can illuminate the darkest of places. He called upon us to not allow things of the material world to come between us and God. He preached that to have a powerful relationship with God, all we have to do is ask. He shared that the true Freedom of life is allowing the Power of God to work, uncontrollably in our lives. 

So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.  ~ John 8:36

After the sermon, most of the congregation went up front and knelt down to pray and receive God's blessings. 

Many people came up and greeted me before and after service, they seemed like a very close group of believers. 

They also have live music and entertainment on Saturday nights. 

THANK YOU Albuquerque Potter's House for sharing your form of worship with me. 

Note: This denomination is not associated with the Mega Church The Potter's House in Dallas or Denver.