Rodney Howard-Browne
A Life of Faith, Joy, and Revival
Early Life and Education
Rodney Howard-Browne was born on June 12, 1961, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Raised in a devout Christian home, Rodney was immersed in the teachings of the Bible from a young age. His upbringing cultivated a passion for sharing God’s word, which eventually led him to pursue full-time ministry.
In 1981, he married his wife, Adonica, who shared his enthusiasm for ministry work. Together, they have three children: Kirsten, Kelly, and Kenneth. Rodney and Adonica studied at Rhema Bible Training Center in Johannesburg, South Africa, under the mentorship of Pastor Ray McCauley. With a solid foundation in Biblical studies, the couple was ready to embark on their mission to spread the Gospel.
Ministry and the Great Awakening
In 1987, Rodney and Adonica Howard-Browne moved to the United States to continue their ministry work. They founded The River at Tampa Bay Church in 1996, which has since grown into a thriving congregation. The church’s mission is to touch lives and demonstrate the power of God’s love.
Rodney is often referred to as the “Holy Ghost Bartender” due to his unique ministry style. He is known for his ability to bring joy and laughter to his congregants, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of unity. His charismatic preaching style, coupled with a focus on the Holy Spirit’s presence, has resulted in the manifestation of spiritual revival.
The Joy Revival, which began in the early 1990s, is one of the most notable aspects of Pastor Rodney’s ministry. The movement emphasizes the joy of the Holy Spirit, with believers often overcome with laughter during worship services. This phenomenon has attracted both support and criticism, but Pastor Rodney remains firm in his belief that joy is a gift from God to bring healing, deliverance, and freedom.
Philanthropy and Outreach
As a dedicated servant of God, Pastor Rodney Howard-Browne has committed himself to community outreach and philanthropic efforts. His organization, RMI, has provided millions of dollars in support to communities in need, both domestically and internationally. Some of the initiatives include providing food, clothing, and shelter to the homeless, supporting disaster relief efforts, and offering educational opportunities for underprivileged children.
Pastor Rodney’s passion for evangelism has led him to hold numerous Great Awakening Tours around the world. Through these events, he has reached thousands of people with the message of hope and salvation, inspiring a new generation of believers.
Legacy
Pastor Rodney Howard-Browne’s life and ministry have made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals. His unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel and his commitment to helping those in need are testaments to his strong faith. With a legacy of joy, revival, and outreach, Pastor Rodney has demonstrated the transformative power of God’s love.