Pastor Smith Wigglesworth
James 
Many people refer to Smith Wigglesworth as 'Pastor Smith Wigglesworth.' This blog explores whether he actually served as a pastor.
Pastor Smith Wigglesworth: British Faith Healer and Pentecostal Pioneer
Smith Wigglesworth (1859–1947) was a British Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, and faith healer known for his powerful sermons and bold claims of divine healing. From humble beginnings as a plumber in Bradford to becoming one of the most influential figures in the early Pentecostal movement, Pastor Smith Wigglesworth left a remarkable spiritual legacy that continues to inspire millions today.
Early Life and Background
Born on June 8, 1859, in Menston, Yorkshire, England, Smith Wigglesworth grew up in poverty.
Wigglesworth learned plumbing as a trade and eventually ran his own business. He met and married Polly Featherstone in 1882, a committed Christian and Salvation Army preacher.
Career Beginnings: From Plumber to Pastor
The turning point came when Smith was baptised in the Holy Spirit in 1907 at a revival led by Alexander Boddy. Soon after, he began preaching, filled with a fiery zeal and bold faith that drew crowds.
In 1884, Smith and Polly opened the Bowland Street Mission in Bradford, where they served together as pastors for over 30 years. Their ministry combined practical care—feeding and housing the poor—with strong gospel preaching. Polly often said, “We’ll feed your flesh now, and your spirit on Sunday.”
Their mission welcomed those who were broken and spiritually hungry. At its peak, over 50 people per week were reportedly converted, totalling nearly 91,000 across 35 years.
✈️ International Ministry
Between 1924 and 1929, Wigglesworth ministered across the United States, receiving credentials from the Assemblies of God USA. Despite affiliations, he rejected denominationalism, famously saying God had called him to “come out” from formal structures—including Methodism, Anglicanism, and the Salvation Army.
Wigglesworth preached in Elim, Assemblies of God, and countless independent churches, yet remained distinctively free from institutional ties.
🏛 Bowland Street Mission
While his travels took him across the globe, Bowland Street Mission in Bradford remained his pastoral base until 1919. After nearly a century of closure, Lil de Fin, the great-granddaughter, and Pastor Vincent Mann helped revive the site. Today, it’s home to the Acts Church Bradford.
Smith Wigglesworth "Bowland Street Mission"
📚 Spiritual Influence
Wigglesworth never wrote books, but many of his sermons and teachings were transcribed and published after his death. These works, such as "Ever Increasing Faith," continue to influence the charismatic and Pentecostal movements worldwide.
Personal Life and Interests
Smith Wigglesworth and Polly had five children, with their daughter, Alice, assisting in the ministry. Polly passed away in 1913, but Smith continued his work until his own passing in 1947.
Though not formally educated, Wigglesworth had a sharp sense of humour and an unshakable belief in the Bible’s power. He avoided newspapers, believing they distracted from God’s word, and often fasted and prayed for long periods.
He never sought fame. Instead, he wanted people to experience Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Pastor Smith Wigglesworth
Pastor Smith Wigglesworth left a profound impact on the world of Christian ministry. His life demonstrates how faith, even from humble beginnings, can shake nations. From healing crusades to his foundational work at Bowland Street Mission, Wigglesworth’s story continues to inspire new generations of believers.
Today, his sermons, quotes, and stories live on in churches, Bible schools, and revival meetings around the world. His legacy? A life wholly surrendered to Christ, filled with bold faith and a passion to see lives transformed by the Holy Spirit.
❓ FAQ – Pastor Smith Wigglesworth
Who was Pastor Smith Wigglesworth?
A British Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, and healer known for bold preaching and miraculous healings.
Did he pastor a church?
Yes, he and his wife, Polly, led Bowland Street Mission in Bradford for over 30 years.
Was he part of a denomination?
No, though he ministered in Elim and the Assemblies of God, he remained independent.
What is he best remembered for?
His healing ministry, unwavering faith, and role in the global Pentecostal movement.
External Links
• Wikipedia – Smith Wigglesworth
• Got Questions – Who was Smith Wigglesworth?
Categories: : Smith Wigglesworth
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