Seymour (William J.)

William J. Seymour was an influential African American preacher and a key figure in the early 20th-century Pentecostal movement. Born in 1870, he played a central role in the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles around 1906-1909, which is often considered the catalyst for Pentecostalism’s global spread. Seymour emphasized the importance of spiritual experiences, such as speaking in tongues, as evidence of baptism in the Holy Spirit. His leadership helped shape modern Pentecostal and charismatic Christian practices, contributing significantly to the growth of diverse, vibrant Christian communities worldwide.