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
Early Pentecostalism grew through several revival networks. William J. Seymour’s Azusa Street revival, beginning in 1906, was influential. Later charismatic renewals brought similar emphases into existing Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox settings.
Beliefs and practices
Emphasis falls on the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, healing prayer, conversion, and mission. Teaching about tongues and Spirit baptism varies. Prosperity teaching is not shared by all Pentecostals.
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
Assemblies of God, Church of God in Christ, Church of God (Cleveland), and Foursquare are examples. Oneness Pentecostals differ from Trinitarian Pentecostals about the Godhead and baptism. “Charismatic” describes a movement across churches, not one denomination.
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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.