pentecostal Tradition

Pentecostal

A vibrant Spirit-centred movement marked by lively worship, expectation of spiritual gifts, and a focus on personal experience of the Holy Spirit.

Quick answer

Pentecostal is one of the Christian traditions covered by Church Near Me, with 10 UK churches listed — most numerously in London, Birmingham, Chatham. This page explains its history, beliefs and worship, and links to every local congregation (directory data verified 18 July 2026).

History & Origins

Modern Pentecostalism began with the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in 1906 and quickly spread worldwide. In the UK it took root through movements like Elim and the Assemblies of God. It has become one of the fastest-growing branches of global Christianity.

What Makes the Pentecostal Distinctive

A strong emphasis on the baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit, including healing, prophecy and speaking in tongues.
Lively, contemporary worship led by a band, with heartfelt prayer and expectation.
Belief that the miraculous gifts of the early Church are for today.
Preaching that calls for a personal response and transformation.
Rooted in the global revival that began in the early twentieth century.

Core Beliefs

Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ
The baptism in the Holy Spirit as a distinct experience
The continuing operation of all spiritual gifts
Divine healing as part of the gospel
The imminent return of Christ

Worship & Practices

Energetic and contemporary, with extended sung worship, raised hands, prayer for healing, and freedom for the spontaneous gifts of the Spirit such as prophecy and tongues.

Spirit-filled corporate worship
Speaking in tongues and prophetic ministry
Prayer for the sick
Active evangelism

Key Terms Explained

A quick glossary to help you understand worship and life in the Pentecostal tradition.

Baptism in the Spirit: An empowering experience of the Holy Spirit central to Pentecostal belief.
Speaking in tongues: Prayer or praise in a spiritual language, seen as a gift of the Spirit.
Altar call: An invitation during a service to respond personally in faith or prayer.
Worship: Extended sung praise, often a high point of a Pentecostal service.

Notable facts

Pentecostalism is the fastest-growing Christian movement in the world, with over 600 million adherents.
It traces its modern origins to the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in 1906.
It is now especially strong across Africa, Latin America and Asia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 'speaking in tongues'?

It refers to praying or worshipping in a language not learned naturally. Pentecostals see it as a gift of the Holy Spirit described in the New Testament book of Acts.

Is Pentecostal worship loud?

Often it is lively and expressive, with bands, raised hands and spontaneous prayer — but there are also quiet, reflective moments. Style varies greatly between churches.