ELS2025 - Rediscovering Pentecost: power, presence and the practices we’ve neglected

A conversation at ELS2025 that called us back to the Spirit-filled life

One of the most refreshing moments at ELS2025 came during a conversation that looked not ahead to something new, but back to something foundational. Mark Pugh sat down with long-time Elim leaders Marilyn Harry and Richard Buxton to reflect on what it means to live—and lead—as Spirit-filled people in today’s Church.

This wasn’t a dramatic unveiling or a nostalgia trip. It was something simpler and more important: a reminder of who we are.

Marilyn Harry, known for helping thousands of people encounter the Holy Spirit, shared stories from decades of ministry that were both practical and deeply encouraging. Whether with a small youth group or hundreds of church leaders, her approach has remained the same—make space, ask in faith, and trust that Jesus still baptises in the Holy Spirit today. Her invitation was clear: you don’t need to be a specialist, just someone willing to lead others into what God freely gives.

Richard Buxton, reflecting on years of unexpected experience in deliverance ministry, offered a grounded, thoughtful challenge to the Western Church. He spoke candidly about how he and his wife were drawn into this area of ministry without training or a roadmap—just a need in front of them and a willingness to help. His story gently exposed how unfamiliar many of us have become with the spiritual realities the New Testament talks about—and how much people in our churches still need freedom today.

Together, Marilyn and Richard painted a picture of Spirit-filled ministry that is both deeply biblical and strikingly normal. Their stories weren’t about grand encounters, but about everyday faithfulness—and the power that flows when we rely on the Holy Spirit rather than our own strength.

Their message? The Spirit hasn’t changed. But maybe we have. And if that’s true, it’s time to rediscover what it means to lead, pray, and serve in the fullness of Pentecost.
 

Did you miss the conversation? Or want to hear it again? Watch it back here.