Biography of Lester Sumrall

Lester Frank Sumrall, a prominent figure in the Pentecostal movement, was a dynamic preacher, evangelist, author, and missionary. His life was marked by a fervent commitment to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and ministering to the needs of the marginalized.

Early Life and Call to Ministry

Born in 1913 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Sumrall’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of 17 when he recovered from tuberculosis. This experience profoundly impacted him, leading to a deep spiritual awakening and a call to ministry. At just 19, he founded a church in Green Forest, Arkansas, and was ordained by the Assemblies of God.

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A Global Evangelist

Sumrall’s passion for sharing the Gospel led him on extensive global travels. He ministered in various countries, including Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia, and throughout Asia and Europe.

His encounters with spiritual oppression and demonic activity in South America significantly shaped his ministry, leading him to become a leading voice in the deliverance movement.

One of Sumrall’s most notable experiences occurred in the Philippines in the 1950s. He was invited to minister to Clarita Villanueva, a young woman who was reportedly possessed by demonic spirits.

Sumrall’s account of the deliverance of Villanueva gained widespread attention and further solidified his reputation as a powerful spiritual leader.

Building a Legacy

Sumrall’s impact extended far beyond his evangelistic endeavors. He founded the Lester Sumrall Evangelistic Association (LeSEA) to support his ministry and established World Harvest Bible College to train future generations of Christian leaders.

He also launched World Harvest Radio International to broadcast the Gospel to remote regions around the world.

Recognizing the pressing needs of the poor and hungry, Sumrall founded LeSEA Global Feed the Hungry, a humanitarian organization dedicated to providing food, clean water, and medical care to those in need.

This organization has made a significant difference in the lives of millions of people worldwide.

A Pioneer in Christian Broadcasting

Sumrall was a pioneer in Christian broadcasting. He acquired television stations across the United States, establishing World Harvest Television (later known as LeSEA Broadcasting).

Through this network, he reached millions of viewers with the Gospel message and teachings on spiritual warfare, healing, and deliverance.

A Legacy of Faith and Compassion

Lester Sumrall’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of God’s will. His books, including “Adventuring with Christ,” “The Life Story of Lester Sumrall,” and “Through Blood and Fire in Latin America,” continue to inspire and challenge readers.

Sumrall’s impact on the global Christian community is immeasurable. His unwavering faith, bold preaching, and compassionate ministry have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and transform lives.

Published Books

Some of his published books are:

• Adventuring with Christ; illustrated, 128 pp.
• Worshipers of the Silver Screen; with a foreword by Edith Mae Pennington, 64 pp.
• Roman Catholicism Slays, 61 pp. Zondervan, 1940
• Dominion is Yours!, 1981
• The Will, The Potent Force of the Universe, 1985, 66 pp. LeSEA Publishing Co.
• The Gifts and Ministries of the Holy Spirit, 1985