What happens when a pastor stops “programming” church and gives the Holy Spirit the room? In this raw conversation, Pastor Jason Howard (Founding Pastor of The Sanctuary, Pittsburgh) shares how one encounter with God’s presence reshaped his life—and why the presence of the Holy Spirit is vital, not optional. From a season of deep personal crisis to seeing miracles, signs, and wonders weekly, Jason explains why many churches unintentionally ignore the Spirit, and how to host His presence so people are actually transformed.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
-Reputation on the Altar: The moment Jason stopped defending himself and chose God’s presence over public perception, then watched God defend him.
-Nightclub Revival: Moving into an old nightclub, services multiplied to four, and lines wrapped around the block.
-Boardroom Showdown: Pressure to shorten services and stop praying for the sick vs. a mandate to prioritize presence over programs.
-Practical Keys: How to make room for the Holy Spirit in gatherings (and daily life) without weirdness or hype.
One authentic encounter with the Holy Spirit can do what years of polished programs can’t—heal hearts, restore lives, and awaken faith.
Chapters:
00:00 One Moment with God is Better than Programs
02:15 Weekly Healings & Holy Spirit Encounters
10:53 Launching the City Campus (2012)
18:27 Nightclub Venue → Revival & Explosive Growth
21:41 COVID Hits & Home Crisis Begins
28:35 Walks in the Woods: Daily Encounters with God
31:27 Revival Services & Laying on of Hands
34:49 Pushback: “Shorter Services, No Praying for the Sick”
39:31 Board Vote, Split & Birth of The Sanctuary
50:38 How Healings Happen (Words of Knowledge & Prayer)
Links:
https://www.pastorjasonhoward.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@UCemZbBAynh3vexO5SkRHuLA
www.sanctuary.us
AlongTheWay Links
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