A Doctor Called to Missions
In the vibrant city of Valparaíso, Chile, 1909 marked a year of profound spiritual awakening led by Willis Collins Hoover. Born to Methodist parents in Freeport, Illinois, in 1858, Hoover was a man of diverse talents—a medical doctor and trained architect—but it was his calling to missionary work that truly defined his life. Inspired by David Livingstone, Hoover felt a deep conviction to serve in South America, a call he could not ignore despite an initial inclination towards Africa.
The Methodist Pastor in Valparaíso
Hoover and his wife, Mary, arrived in Chile in 1889, eager to serve through the Methodist Mission. They began their ministry in Iquique, but it was in Valparaíso, where Hoover became the pastor of a large Methodist church in 1902, that his journey took a remarkable turn. Feeling the need for deeper spiritual growth within the congregation, Hoover was drawn to the accounts of the 1906 Azusa Street revival in Los Angeles. This inspired him to delve into the Book of Acts, sparking a desire to emulate the early church's vitality.
In January 1909, during times of focused prayer, Hoover and his congregation experienced an extraordinary outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The church resonated with the spontaneous and united prayers of its members, much like "the sound of many waters." This movement of the Spirit brought forth manifestations like speaking in tongues, holy laughter, and healing, transforming both individuals and the community. One notable transformation was Elena Laidlaw, who, under Mary's guidance, was converted and baptized in the Holy Spirit, her words convicting many of their sins.
However, this revival was not without its challenges. The Methodist leadership in the United States viewed these events with skepticism, seeing them as overly emotional and contrary to Methodist traditions. Despite an ultimatum to cease these practices, Hoover chose to stand firm in his convictions, echoing Martin Luther's historic words, "Here I stand. God help me. I cannot do otherwise." By 1910, Hoover and about 400 members had parted ways with the Methodist Church, forming what became the Methodist Pentecostal Church.
The legacy of this movement is profound, with the church experiencing rapid growth and becoming a cornerstone of Pentecostalism in Chile. Despite later divisions, the church thrived, reaching nearly a million members within seven decades. Hoover's unwavering faith and dedication to his calling left an indelible mark, demonstrating the powerful work of Jesus through the Holy Spirit in transforming lives and communities.
