Author: Mark Lazzara | Photo’s by Victoria Shurr
In the shadow of the Peace Bridge,pastor Ted Shuttlesworth has returned to a century old tradition – an old fashioned Tent Revival meeting held at the corner of Niagara and Albany Street in Buffalo.
The first and most famous event of this nature was a historic revival meeting that took place in Los Angeles, California. It began with a congregation in April, 1906, and the series (Azusa Revival) continued until 1915. Those initial gatherings were considered by historians to be the primary catalyst for the spread of Pentecostalism in the 20th century.
Many years later, televangelist Oral Roberts got his start by hosting similar types of tent meetings, and ultimately became a world-renowned figurehead. This past weekend, Pastor Shuttlesworth launched his 12-city revival series crusade called Faith Alive. The telecast event is a weeklong outreach to families throughout the City of Buffalo. Shuttlesworth currently has his congregation’s headquarters set up on the corner of Niagara Street and Albany Street, on Buffalo’s West Side (1095 Niagara Street).
Adding a local inspirational element to the crusade, Eric and Michelle John of The Dream Center have coordinated efforts with Shuttlesworth by providing 10,000 meals to 1,000 families during the event. The Dream Center is in the midst of celebrating a herculean milestone effort of providing 1.5 million meals throughout its 20 year history. The Food Giveaway, held on June 25, helped to memorialize that momentous level of giving. “We are so pleased to be able to continue to serve many families in the inner city, some of whom are living without hope,” said Pastor Eric Johns. “We want to bring them the hope they need.”
“We are now beginning the 40th year of full-time evangelism for this Ministry – our new humanitarian outreaches continue as we are committed to helping those that need shelter, food, and medicine,” stated Pastor Shuttlesworth. “Our newest venture of faith is the Outdoor Crusades.”
Shuttlesworth put up his own money to host the event, and no offerings are being taken. On the West side of Buffalo, a tent has been raised that will accommodate 1000 people throughout this old fashioned tent revival. The full day events began on Saturday, June 25, and will continue on through Friday, July 1 at 7 PM.
To learn more about Faith Alive, click here.
To learn more about the The Dream Center, click here.