3/14/22, 11:20 AM What is the Assemblies of God?

10 Things to Know about their History & Beliefs

1. The Assemblies of God were founded in Hot Springs, Arkansas in April, 1914.

In the aftermath of the Azusa St. Revival, the demand for denominational organization became clear to many
when founded Christian churches mostly denied Pentecostal
(https://www.christianity.com/church/denominations/10-things-christians-should-know-about-
pentecostalism.html) followers. Devotion groups, such as Wesleyan Methodists
(https://www.christianity.com/church/denominations/what-is-methodism-10-things-to-know-about-
methodists.html) and the Salvation Army, disassociated themselves with Pentecostals, leaving Pentecostals
without acceptance into any kind of religious organization. They then sought to create their own!

In April 1914, the inaugural General Council of the Assemblies of God occurred in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Over 300
Pentecostals met from more than 20 states. In an effort for solidarity, the first three days were dedicated to
teaching, devotions, and fraternal bonding. The gathered members adopted the name “Assemblies of God” when
relating to the associated groups and would ultimately consolidate under the title “General Council of the
Assemblies of God.” Amid the result of the first council was a method by which pastors could be regionally
credentialed. Though later gatherings would provide doctrinal declarations and elect supervising leaders, there is
no question that in April 1914 the Assemblies of God was created.

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