PentecostalCharismatic

Pentecostalism and the Charismatic movement are branches of Protestant Christianity that emphasize the work of the Holy Spirit and the experience of spiritual gifts. These gifts, as described in the New Testament Book of Acts, include speaking in tongues (glossolalia), divine healing, prophecy, and miracles. Pentecostalism emerged in the early 20th century, with key events often traced to revivals in Topeka, Kansas, and Azusa Street in Los Angeles. Charismatic Christianity, while sharing similar theological tenets, began to emerge in the mid-20th century within mainline Protestant denominations and later spread to Roman Catholicism.

Both traditions believe in the baptism with the Holy Spirit as a distinct experience subsequent to salvation, which empowers believers for service and spiritual life. Worship services are typically lively and participatory, often featuring spontaneous prayer, singing, and expressions of spiritual gifts. While distinct in their historical origins and how they manifested within different denominational structures, Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians share a core belief in the ongoing operation of divine power in the lives of believers today, aiming for a vibrant and experiential faith.