Our History
From humble beginnings in the mountains of Appalachia to a global movement, our history is a testament to faith, perseverance, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Formation of the Christian Union
In August 1886, Elder Richard Spurling, an ordained Baptist minister, established the Christian Union at Barney Creek in Monroe County, Tennessee, aiming to return to the principles of the New Testament and move away from rigid creedalism.
1886
Shearer Schoolhouse Revival
A revival at the Shearer Schoolhouse in North Carolina in 1896 significantly influenced the movement, steering it towards the Holiness tradition and laying the groundwork for future Pentecostal experiences.
1896
The Holiness Church at Camp Creek is Established
On May 15, 1902, R.G. Spurling and W.F. Bryant organize the Holiness Church at Camp Creek in Cherokee County, North Carolina. This marks the formal beginning of what would later become the Church of God and, eventually, the Church of God of Prophecy.
1902
A.J. Tomlinson Joins the Movement
On June 13, 1903, A.J. Tomlinson, a Quaker minister, visits the Camp Creek congregation. He experiences a profound spiritual transformation at what would later become known as Fields of the Wood and is chosen as the leading figure in the movement.
While Tomlinson is best known for his role in the Church of God movements, his influence runs deeper—shaping Pentecostal theology, worship, governance, and missions. Many Pentecostal and Holiness churches today, even those outside his direct lineage, reflect elements of his pioneering vision.
1903
First General Assembly
The first General Assembly is held on January 26–27, 1906, formalizing the governance of the church. This gathering emphasizes collective decision-making and begins shaping the future structure of the church.
1906
Adoption of the Name 'Church of God'
The General Assembly held in 1907 officially adopted the name “Church of God,” marking a formal identity for the movement.
1907
A.J. Tomlinson Baptized in the Holy Spirit
During the third General Assembly (January 1908), Gaston B. Cashwell, a preacher from Azusa Street, came to preach on Spirit baptism. Tomlinson and others received the baptism of the Holy Spirit with evidence of speaking in tongues. Following this experience, the movement fully embraced Pentecostalism and began teaching Spirit baptism with tongues as a doctrine, distinguishing itself from the earlier Holiness emphasis.
1908
First International Church Established in The Bahamas
In November 1909, Edmund S. Barr, a Bahamian who received the baptism of the Holy Spirit in Florida, traveled to the Bahamas to begin evangelistic work. He was soon joined by R.M. Evans, a former Methodist minister, and together they secured a cottage and started ministry efforts. This became the first official international church establishment of what would later be known as the Church of God of Prophecy.
1909
Church Disruption and Creation of the White Wing Messenger
A significant schism occurs within the Church of God, leading to the separation of A.J. Tomlinson and his followers, who later become known as the Church of God of Prophecy. After the division in the Church of God, A.J. Tomlinson and his followers established the White Wing Publishing House and began publishing the White Wing Messenger. This publication became the official voice of the Church of God of Prophecy, sharing doctrinal teachings, church news, and inspirational content with members worldwide for more than 100 years.
1923
Cyprus and Greece Join as the First European Nations
In 1931, Cyprus and Greece became the first European nations to embrace the Church of God of Prophecy, laying the groundwork for the church’s presence across the continent. Their inclusion signaled the beginning of a broader movement that would eventually reach multiple countries throughout Europe.
1931
Costa Rica Becomes the Church’s First Presence in Central America
The Church of God of Prophecy officially arrived in Central America in 1932 with the establishment of its first congregation in Costa Rica. This milestone marked the launch of the church’s growing influence in the region, paving the way for further expansion in neighboring nations.
1932
Sierra Leone Becomes the Church’s First Footprint in Africa
The year 1934 saw Sierra Leone become the first African country to welcome the Church of God of Prophecy. This historic development opened the door for the church’s reach to spread across the continent, fostering a movement that continues to grow today.
1934
Hawaii and the Philippines Expand the Church’s Reach Across the Pacific and Asia
In 1952, the Church of God of Prophecy planted its first congregation in Hawaii, marking the church’s initial presence in the Pacific region. Although Hawaii would later become a U.S. state in 1959, its early involvement played a vital role in broadening the church’s international impact. That same year, the Philippines became the first Asian nation to officially join the church, further extending its reach into Southeast Asia and solidifying a foundation for future ministry across the continent
1952
Argentina Becomes the First South American Nation to Join
The Church of God of Prophecy took a significant step into South America in 1955, when Argentina became home to its first congregation on the continent. This moment not only introduced the movement to a new region but also set the stage for a broader spiritual awakening. As the message of faith took root, Argentina became a launching point for future ministry efforts, inspiring growth across Latin America and strengthening the church’s global presence.
1955
'Turning to the Harvest' Initiative
The church launches a major global outreach effort called “Turning to the Harvest,” emphasizing evangelism and church growth.
1994
Establishment of Core Values and Mission
At the Assembly of 2010, the Church of God of Prophecy launched Vision 2020, a strategic initiative focused on three core values: prayer, leadership development, and the harvest. This vision emphasized church planting, disciple-making, and expanding global outreach efforts. The initiative reinforced the church’s commitment to holiness, Spirit-filled ministry, and equipping leaders for the 21st century. In the years that followed, the core values of Biblical Stewardship and Service were added and the church’s mission clarified as “Reconciling the world to Christ through the Power of the Holy Spirit.
2010
