Origins: Pentecostalism emerged in the United States in the early 20th century, with key events including the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles (1906-1915) and the Latter Rain Movement in the late 1940s and 1950s.
Beliefs and Practices: Pentecostalism is characterized by a belief in a direct, personal experience of God through the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Practices often include speaking in tongues (glossolalia), divine healing, and receiving prophetic revelations. Pentecostals generally believe that these spiritual gifts are available to all believers.
Demographics: By the 21st century, Pentecostalism had spread across the United States and had become particularly popular among different ethnic groups. Pentecostal churches can be found across the spectrum from very small to very large, including mega-churches.
Denominations: Many Pentecostal congregations are independent, but some are part of larger denominations, such as the Assemblies of God, Church of God in Christ, Church of God (Cleveland, Tennessee), and the United Pentecostal Church International.
Impact on American Christianity: Pentecostalism has had a significant impact on American religion and culture, influencing other Christian traditions and contributing to the rise of the Charismatic Movement in the 1960s. This movement shares a focus on the gifts of the Spirit but is found within existing denominations rather than creating new ones.
Challenges and Change: Like all religious movements, Pentecostalism faces challenges and changes in the context of the shifting landscape of contemporary American society. These include issues of social change, theological development, and engagement with broader cultural and political issues.