Ambrose Jessup Tomlinson

In 1902, R. G. Spurling influenced a Holiness group led by W. F. Bryant to form the Holiness Church at Camp Creek, North Carolina. Spurling was elected pastor and Bryant was ordained as a deacon. The next year brought into the church an energetic and powerful leader, Ambrose Jessup Tomlinson or A. J. Tomlinson. Tomlinson, a former Quaker who experienced an inner change of regeneration and sanctification, came in 1899 to the Appalachian region as a missionary. He became acquainted with Spurling and Bryant and caught Spurling's vision of the restoration of the church. He united with the church at Camp Creek on June 13, 1903, and soon became the acknowledged leader.

New churches were organized in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. The first annual meeting of all the churches was held in 1906 in Cherokee County, North Carolina, and the name "Church of God" was adopted in 1907.

Every two years, leadership and laity from around the world come together and form the International Assembly-the doctrinal decision-making body of the Church. The International Assembly addresses ongoing Biblical revelation as well as International practical concerns and provides a vehicle for the movement to corporately receive direction as a church family.

This weeklong global homecoming, open to all (members and non-members alike), provides every church member an opportunity to participate with equal voice in business proceedings. Attendees are enriched through diverse, Spirit-filled ministry from around the world. Biblical truths such as repentance, regeneration, sanctification and holiness of life are admonished. The expectation is that these truths will be lived out in local churches around the world. Many have found that, in order to understand this church, you simply must experience the International Assembly.