How about a story of faith that started with humble beginnings? First Assembly of God Church in Los Angeles is more than just a building. It is a community with a rich history.
First Assembly of God is part of a larger movement. This movement transformed Christianity in the 20th century. It began at Charles Parham’s Bible school in Topeka, Kansas. Parham believed speaking in tongues was proof of Spirit baptism. Agnes Ozman spoke in tongues on January 1, 1901. This marked the rediscovery of the Pentecostal experience.
Pentecostalism gained momentum from the Azusa Street Revival. This revival ran in Los Angeles from 1906 to 1913. It attracted Christians from various denominations worldwide. Despite opposition, the movement spread. Newly filled saints and preachers shared their experiences.
Many early Pentecostals did not want a formal organization. They wanted to work within existing denominations. However, opposition to Pentecostalism grew. It became necessary to form an organization. This would credential ministers who were being rejected. The Assemblies of God was chartered in 1913. E.N. Bell and Howard Goss were among the founders.
Charles Parham taught that speaking in tongues was the initial evidence of Holy Spirit baptism. William Seymour, a black Holiness preacher, heard Parham’s teachings. Seymour was invited to Los Angeles. He was to assist Julia Hutchins at her Holiness mission.
Seymour’s message about speaking in tongues was not well-received initially. He found an audience at the Edward Lee home. Then, he gathered followers at Richard and Ruth Asberry’s home. Integrated congregations prayed for revival there.
On April 9, Edward Lee spoke in tongues after praying with Seymour. Excitement grew. Soon, many in the Bible study spoke in tongues. The Asberry home became too small for the crowds. A larger building was needed. A makeshift pulpit, altar, and benches were set up at 312 Azusa Street.
Newspapers ridiculed Seymour. They called him “an old colored nexhorter, blind in one eye.” But Seymour persevered. He urged people to focus on Jesus. Joseph Kelly, a missionary, came to “expose the tongues business.” A woman spoke to him in the language of a Philippine tribe. Kelly was amazed.
George Studd, a former cricket player, was baptized in the Spirit at Azusa. He gave away his fortune to Christian causes. Charles H. Mason turned the Church of God in Christ Pentecostal. Gaston B. Cashwell saw several Holiness organizations turn Pentecostal.
Jennie Evans Moore became a minister and evangelist. She was reportedly the first woman in Los Angeles to speak in tongues. Later, she became William Seymour’s wife.
The Azusa Street revival was significant. Thousands found Christ. The color line was washed away. Frank Bartleman promoted the revival. He sent out news reports worldwide.
The Azusa Street movement merged White American Holiness with African-American worship styles. Expressive worship and Black music created a new form of Pentecostalism. This attracted many, both in America and worldwide.
William H. Durham of Chicago visited Azusa Street in 1907. He led thousands into the Pentecostal movement. Despite negative reports in the Los Angeles Daily Times, Durham was moved by the presence of God at Azusa Street.
Durham’s theology led to the formation of the Assemblies of God in 1914. The Assemblies of God grew into a large Pentecostal denomination. By 1993, it had over 2,000,000 members in the U.S. and 25,000,000 worldwide.
First Assembly of God continues this legacy. It welcomes people of all ages and ethnicities. The church offers ministries and small groups. These provide support and friendship. It is actively involved in outreach. This includes food assistance and hospital visitations.
The church has been engaged in missions for over 15 years. They have established church plants in various countries. Their vision is to reach the lost. They preach the Gospel and make disciples. They teach believers to be leaders and mentors. First Assembly of God values a passionate love for God. They also value loving relationships and unity. They believe everyone has the right to hear the Gospel. They encourage believers to seek baptism in the Holy Spirit. Membership in a local church is vital. Christ-like character is paramount. Every member has a ministry to fulfill. World missions are essential. A spirit of excellence should guide all actions.
First InnerCity Assembly of God seeks to serve God. They work for justice and peace. They respect all faith traditions. They desire to be known by their love for one another.
As you stand here, remember the journey of faith. The First Assembly of God continues to impact lives. It continues to spread the message of hope and love.