Imagine Pentecostal roots stretching back to the early 20th century. Today we explore the United Pentecostal Church in Houston. This church is part of a larger movement. The United Pentecostal Church International UPCI.
The UPCI emerged from the Pentecostal movement. Its origins trace back to Charles Parham and the Azusa Street Revival. William J Seymour led that revival in 1906. The UPCI’s own roots began in 1916. Then, ministers within the Assemblies of God united. They focused on the oneness of God. They also emphasized water baptism in Jesus’ name.
In 1917, these ministers formed the General Assembly of the Apostolic Assemblies. It merged with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World. G T Haywood, an African American, led the combined group. Their first meeting occurred in Eureka Springs in 1918. This interracial body used the PAW name. It remained the only Oneness Pentecostal body until 1924.
Southern Jim Crow laws caused many white leaders to withdraw. They did not want to remain under African American leadership. In 1925, three new Oneness churches formed. These were the Apostolic Churches of Jesus Christ. Also the Pentecostal Ministerial Alliance. And Emmanuel’s Church in Jesus Christ.
Efforts to reunify these groups began in 1927. In 1931, a conference attempted to unite all Oneness Pentecostals. The Pentecostal Ministerial Alliance wanted to merge. But the Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ rejected the terms. However, that same year the Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ and the PAW united. The new body kept the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World name.
In 1932, the Pentecostal Ministerial Alliance became the Pentecostal Church Incorporated. In 1936, ministers voted to amalgamate with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ. On September 25, 1945, these groups merged in St Louis. They formed the United Pentecostal Church International. This merger united 521 churches.
The United Pentecostal Church International grew significantly. It now has over 45000 churches worldwide. It also has over 5.8 million members. These numbers include daughter works and preaching points. The UPCI also includes 45000 ministers. The Global Council of the UPCI unites national organizations. The general superintendent of the UPCI chairs it. David K Bernard currently holds that position.
The UPCI’s core beliefs align with Oneness Pentecostalism. They reject the Trinity. They believe the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are manifestations of one God. The UPCI believes in repentance and baptism. Baptism must be in Jesus’ name. Receiving the Holy Ghost with speaking in tongues is essential for salvation. This is based on Acts 2:38.
The UPCI has specific stances on sexuality. They consider homosexuality a sin. They define proper sexuality as heterosexuality. They believe in definite boundaries between sexes. But the UPCI says it preaches reconciliation not condemnation. The UPCI opposes abortion. It designates the third Sunday in January as Sanctity of Life Sunday.
The UPCI has guidelines on technology. They once disapproved of owning televisions. Now, they encourage responsible internet use. They advise placing computers in family areas. They recommend using blocking software. They also suggest sharing passwords.
The United Pentecostal Church International opposes gambling. They see it as addictive and inconsistent with Christian values. The UPCI recommends refraining from organized sports. This is due to their perceived conflict with Pentecostal principles.
The UPCI strongly opposes Transcendental Meditation. They disapprove of its promotion in classrooms. In Bible translations, the UPCI favors the King James Version. They recommend translations with high views of inspiration.
The United Pentecostal Church International’s government is congregational. Local churches are self-governing. Ministers meet in conferences to elect officers. The General Conference is the highest authority. It determines faith articles and policies. The General Superintendent presides over the church.
The United Pentecostal Church International hosts a General Conference annually. Attendees conduct business and receive training. They network and participate in worship. They also raise funds for ministries. The North American Youth Congress NAYC is a biennial event. It is for UPCI youth. It is one of the largest Christian youth gatherings in the US.
The UPCI owns Urshan Graduate School of Theology. It also runs Urshan University. Both are in Wentzville Missouri. The Global Association of Theological Studies GATS oversees curriculum for UPCI bible schools globally.
The United Pentecostal Church International continues to impact lives. It promotes specific beliefs. It offers educational institutions. It fosters a global community. Remember this as you stand before the United Pentecostal Church in Houston. It is part of a significant international movement. Its history and beliefs shape its identity.