Key Facts
Key Information
About
The Assemblies of God (AG) is the largest Pentecostal denomination in the United States and one of the world's largest Pentecostal fellowships. It was organized in Hot Springs, Arkansas, from April 2-12, 1914, by a group of Pentecostal leaders seeking unity, doctrinal stability, legal recognition, and coordinated missionary efforts amid the growing Pentecostal movement. The denomination emphasizes evangelical outreach, spiritual gifts, the baptism of the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues, divine healing, and the imminent return of Christ. It operates through a cooperative structure of local churches, district councils, and a General Council, supporting evangelism, education, and social services globally. With over 13,000 churches in the US and millions of adherents worldwide through affiliated bodies, the AG focuses on missionary outreach, having sent thousands of missionaries to more than 200 countries.
The Assemblies of God USA maintains its headquarters in Springfield, Missouri, where key institutions like Gospel Publishing House and Assemblies of God Theological Seminary are located. It has grown significantly since its founding, incorporating various regional groups. The denomination is Trinitarian and fundamentalist in theology, distancing itself from Oneness Pentecostalism. Historically, it has navigated controversies such as racial integration in the mid-20th century and debates over prosperity theology, while maintaining a commitment to biblical inerrancy and social conservatism on issues like abortion and same-sex marriage.
Globally, the Assemblies of God is part of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship (WAGF), formed in 1989 to foster cooperation among over 170 national Pentecostal denominations. This international network enhances joint missions, theological dialogue, and relief efforts, reflecting the AG's vision for worldwide Pentecostal unity and evangelism.