Assemblies of God (USA)

A historical and descriptive introduction. Local practice varies; the examples below are not a judgment of a community’s faithfulness.

When and how it began

Ministers and church representatives organized the Assemblies of God in Hot Springs, Arkansas, in 1914. The gathering brought together early Pentecostal networks for missionary cooperation, ministerial fellowship, and shared work.

Beliefs and practices

Its statement of faith is Trinitarian and teaches salvation through Christ, believer’s baptism, healing, and baptism in the Holy Spirit with speaking in tongues as initial physical evidence. These are its religious teachings, not independently established historical facts.

A typical worship service

Extended singing, expressive prayer, preaching, testimony, and prayer ministry are common. The degree of spontaneity differs.

What the worship space looks like

Gatherings may use simple halls, traditional sanctuaries, or large auditoriums with a music platform.

Branches and differences

Local churches cooperate through districts and the General Council. This profile concerns the U.S. body; Assemblies of God churches in other countries have their own organizational histories.

Explore related profiles

Pentecostal and charismatic traditions

Sources & further reading

Historical overviews support the account of origins. Official church documents describe the community’s own beliefs and practice.

Reviewed September 24, 2026. Broad family descriptions do not settle local policies or every contested point of history.