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One of the most significant developments in recent Christianity
is the appearance of many pentecostal denominations throughout the
world during the past century. Beginning in the United States and
spreading rapidly to most nations of the world, they now comprise
a major "third force" in Christendom whose phenomenal
growth has commanded the attention of the world.
One of the first groups to designate itself officially as a
member of the pentecostal movement was the Pentecostal Holiness
Church. With roots in the midwestern and southeastern United States,
the Pentecostal Holiness Church has played a significant role within
the movement from the beginning.
The character of the church is to be seen in its name, which
places it astride two major revival movements: the holiness revival
of the late nineteenth century, and the pentecostal revival of the
twentieth century. As its distinctive contribution to contemporary
Christianity, this church has attempted to preserve the Wesleyan
tradition, while perpetuating the pentecostal tradition.
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