A Christian movement emphasizing the gifts of the Holy Spirit, particularly speaking in tongues, divine healing, and prophecy. Pentecostals believe these supernatural gifts are available to all believers today.
Named after Pentecost, the biblical event when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus's apostles, enabling them to speak in foreign languages. The modern movement began in 1901 in Kansas and 1906 in Los Angeles, spreading rapidly worldwide.
Starting with a handful of believers in a run-down Los Angeles warehouse, Pentecostalism became Christianity's fastest-growing movement—now over 600 million strong! It's revolutionized global Christianity by bringing ancient mystical experiences to modern believers across all social classes.
Pentecostalism emerged in early 20th century with women prophets and preachers (Seymour's movement included women leaders). However, male leadership solidified doctrinal authority, and women's prophetic roles were reframed as subordinate spiritual gifts despite their foundational contributions.
Use 'Pentecostalism' accurately; note women's roles in origins (Azusa Street Revival) when discussing movement history.
Women like Maria Beulah Woodworth-Etter and Florence Crawford pioneered Pentecostal evangelism and established major congregations, though institutional histories center male denominational leaders.
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