Pentecostal Beliefs, Practices and Community

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Protestantism and Its Many Denominations

The word “protestatio” was invoked in 1529, in reference to those princes that supported Martin Luther and spoke out against religious persecution. These royal supporters were eventually known as Protestants, a name that spread to the vast number of religious denominations that sprang from the beliefs associated with the Reformation. This guide attempts to straighten out the differences among the sects, pinpoint their commonalities, indicate their historical foundations and show you how to connect with Protestants everywhere.

Read a Spanish-language version of this Web Guide.

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Protestant History

A large part of the world, particularly the West, is very much a product of what happened almost ... read more »

Protestant Beliefs and Practices

Although the various denominations differ on many religious tenets, they do share similar ... read more »

Pentecostal Beliefs, Practices and Community

The Pentecostal name is derived from the events described in the New Testament: On the Day of Pentecost, early Christians experienced spiritual gifts given to them by the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues. Use the sites below to get acquainted with Pentecostal beliefs, practices and community.

Insights for Pentecostal Beliefs, Practices and Community

Some Pentecostals refer to themselves as Charismatics. But “charismatic” may apply to other Christian denominations as well. For example, Baptists and Methodists may practice some charismatic elements; there are even Charismatic Roman Catholics. Charismatic really just means that people believe they can possess “spiritual gifts” or “charisms,” and that the Holy Spirit can manifest itself in everyday life. These spiritual gifts include speaking in tongues (“glossolalia”), healing and prophesying, among others.

Top Sites for Pentecostal Beliefs, Practices and Community

For information on Pentecostals …

Oral Roberts University provides an historical account of the denomination, entitled “The Origins of the Pentecostal Movement.” Read about the Holiness Movement of the 19th century, American Pentecostal Pioneers and Neo-Pentecostals and Charismatics.

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For major Pentecostal organizations …

Assemblies of God is the largest Pentecostal organization. This particular organization believes in the Trinitarian concept of God (Trinitarian Pentecostals), though there are Pentecostals that think God, Jesus and the Holy Ghost are one entity (Oneness Pentecostals).

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United Pentecostal Church International is one of the largest Pentecostal groups that holds the Oneness theology. Take a look at an insightful article about the United Pentecostal Church and its doctrinal views. Use the Church Locator to find a place of worship by typing in zip code, city, pastor, state/province or district.

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For the Pentecostal online community …

Christian Forums has a discussion board for Pentecostals and Charismatics. This is an extremely active forum.

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