Pentecostalism is a highly diverse movement and includes a range of different denominations. While these denominations share common beliefs in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, and divine healing, they also have distinct doctrines and practices that set them apart. Here are a few of the larger and more well-known Pentecostal denominations in the United States:
- Assemblies of God (AG): Founded in 1914, the Assemblies of God is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the United States and the world. It emphasizes four cardinal doctrines: the baptism in the Holy Spirit, salvation, divine healing, and the Second Coming of Christ.
- Church of God in Christ (COGIC): The COGIC is the largest African-American Pentecostal denomination in the United States. It was founded in 1897 by Charles Harrison Mason, who was influenced by the Holiness movement and later by the Azusa Street Revival.
- United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI): The UPCI is known for its teaching of “Oneness Pentecostalism” or “Apostolic Pentecostalism,” which rejects the traditional Christian doctrine of the Trinity in favor of a belief in the singular personhood of God. The UPCI also teaches that speaking in tongues is necessary for salvation.
- Church of God (Cleveland, Tennessee): Founded in 1886, this is one of the oldest Pentecostal denominations in the United States. It shares common Pentecostal beliefs and places strong emphasis on the sanctified life, divine healing, and the Second Coming of Christ.
- Pentecostal Holiness Church: This denomination combines elements of the Holiness and Pentecostal movements. It believes in a second blessing subsequent to conversion, known as entire sanctification, and a third blessing, known as the baptism of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues.
- Foursquare Church: Founded by Aimee Semple McPherson in the 1920s, the Foursquare Church is known for its use of media and its emphasis on the “Foursquare Gospel” of Jesus as Savior, Baptizer with the Holy Spirit, Healer, and Soon-Coming King.
These are just a few examples of the many Pentecostal denominations. There are also many independent Pentecostal churches that are not formally affiliated with a denomination. While all of these groups are part of the broader Pentecostal movement, they each have unique beliefs and practices that distinguish them.