
At the World Evangelical Alliance general assembly in Seoul, Asbury University president Kevin Brown reflected on the 2023 Asbury revival, praying it would one day be remembered as a mere 'tremor' before a global Christian awakening. What began as a small chapel meeting became a 16-day outpouring that drew 50,000 people from 287 universities worldwide. Brown believes that since then, spiritual renewal has continued to spread — seen in mass baptisms, worship gatherings like Baptise America and Gather 25, and growing Bible engagement across generations. He cited evidence of rising church attendance in both the USA and Europe, with England and Wales reporting a 50% increase since 2018. At the Lausanne Congress, Brown witnessed thousands from over 200 nations worshipping in unity, sensing a worldwide stirring among youth. He urged believers to pursue true revival, marked not by emotion but by unity - the oneness Jesus prayed for in John 17 - a heart-level allegiance to God reflecting the love between Father and Son.
At a time of deep racial tension, two pastors - Derrick Hawkins, middle-aged and white, and Jay Stewart, young and black - have united their culturally segregated churches. The pair are leading the journey of racial reconciliation by example. In 2014 Pastor Derrick visited Jay’s church service and asked him to mentor him as he prepared to take over the role of senior pastor in his church. They began meeting and established a great friendship. In 2016, they decided to go beyond the norm and merge their completely culturally different ministries. 90% of African-American Christians worship in all-black churches. 90% of white American Christians worship in all-white churches. The pair believe God has a ‘better narrative of unity’, and want Christians to step out of their comfort zones and reflect the bride of Christ. Stewart said the risks of forming relationships with those who look different from you is worth the reward that comes from doing so.