TICCN: A Convergence Movement Rooted in Spiritual Heritage and Ecumenical Vision
TICCN stands as a modern expression of convergence—a movement that draws from the rich wellsprings of Christian tradition while actively engaging in the present work of unity and transformation. Echoing the ethos of the 19th-century Oxford Movement, which asserted that the Church of England was a divinely instituted expression of the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church rather than simply a Protestant denomination, TICCN emphasises the divine nature of the universal Church. It prioritises the unity of the Body of Christ above denominational boundaries, affirming the value of apostolic succession and the shared spiritual inheritance of the historic Church.
This ecumenical spirit finds expression not only in doctrine but also through remarkable lives of faith connected to TICCN. One such figure is Reverend Smith Wigglesworth (1859–1947), widely known as The Apostle of Faith. His legacy of supernatural healing, prophetic insight, and uncompromising faith resonates deeply with TICCN’s mission. Wigglesworth’s ministry is historically linked with TICCN through shared impact and spiritual continuity. Notably, Archbishop Steven Lyn Evans and Wigglesworth are among only three ministers to have been featured on front-page headlines in secular British newspapers due to supernatural healing testimonies. The third is Reverend Melvin Banks, often referred to as “the second Wigglesworth,” and himself a current minister within TICCN.
Wigglesworth’s prophetic vision extended to the future of the Church. He famously prophesied over a young David du Plessis—later known as Mr. Pentecost—foreseeing that du Plessis would serve as a bridge between Pentecostal and traditional non-Charismatic denominations. That prophecy would come to pass in a powerful way.
In 1975, after decades of Pentecostal ministry, Dr. David du Plessis was invited by Pope Paul VI to initiate and mediate dialogue between the Roman Catholic Church and the growing global Pentecostal movement. This moment of reconciliation laid a foundation for mutual understanding and ecclesial openness. In 1976, du Plessis invited Robert McAlister, a leader of revival among both Catholics and Pentecostals in Brazil, into the conversation. Two years later, Pope Paul VI recognized both men as bishops with apostolic succession and global spiritual oversight—a heritage now linked with TICCN through its relationship with the Global Gospel Fellowship.
This convergence of traditions is not only historical—it continues today. Bishop Tony Palmer, a respected friend of both Pope Francis and Archbishop Steven Lyn Evans, embodied the ecumenical mission of TICCN in a powerful way. In 2014, Bishop Palmer and Pope Francis recorded a groundbreaking video message for Kenneth Copeland’s faith conference, emphasizing the prayer of Jesus:
“May they all be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You” (John 17:21).
This moment marked a significant milestone in Pentecostal-Catholic dialogue, and demonstrated how leaders across theological traditions could unite in the spirit of love, respect, and the pursuit of Christian unity.
That same spirit was tangibly present at TICCN’s 2023 international conference, where Reverend Christopher Hughes, having just returned from meetings at the Vatican, presented Archbishop Evans with a personal rosary gifted by Pope Francis. Reflecting on this profound gesture, Archbishop Evans stated:
“Love and respect towards others with differing views are the foundations for genuine human understanding.”
This spirit of convergence—rooted in Scripture, history, and prophetic fulfillment—continues to guide TICCN. As Wigglesworth’s prophecy continues to unfold, TICCN remains committed to building bridges between traditions, empowering the Church for supernatural ministry, and advancing the Gospel through unity, compassion, and the shared witness of faith.
“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” – John 13:35
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