The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (French: Les Assemblées de la Pentecôte du Canada) is a Finished Work Pentecostal Christian denomination and the largest evangelical organization in Canada. Founded in 1919 with a charter issued on May 17 of that year, it emerged from early 20th-century Pentecostal revivals, emphasizing the baptism of the Holy Spirit with speaking in tongues as a central doctrine[1][5].

History

The PAOC originated from efforts to organize Canada's Pentecostal movement, which faced initial resistance to institutionalization. A 1909 organizational attempt in eastern Canada failed, but by 1918, leaders resolved to form a national body. Seven founding members—including R. E. McAlister, Frank Small, and George A. Chambers—officially established the PAOC as a chartered entity in 1919[5]. Early affiliations with U.S. groups like the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World and the Assemblies of God were short-lived; by 1925, the PAOC became fully independent[1][5].

Theology and Practices

The denomination adheres to Finished Work Pentecostalism, emphasizing salvation through Christ's finished work on the cross and the subsequent empowerment of believers via the Holy Spirit. Core practices include water baptism, divine healing, and eschatological focus on Christ's return[1][3]. Missionary work and church planting have been central to its mission since inception, with over 1,100 affiliated congregations reported by 2013[3][5].

Structure and Affiliations

Governed by a General Assembly, the PAOC prioritizes congregational autonomy while maintaining national oversight for doctrinal consistency. It is affiliated with the World Assemblies of God Fellowship and the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, reflecting its global evangelical commitments[1]. The organization operates seminaries and archives to preserve its historical records, established in 1981 under leadership including Charles Yates and Ron Kydd[2].

Growth and Outreach

From 27 affiliated churches in 1920, the PAOC expanded to over 1,047 congregations by the modern era, with a membership exceeding 270,000[1][3]. Its early focus on urban centers evolved into nationwide and international missionary efforts, including educational initiatives and disaster relief[3][5]. The 2013 mission statement reaffirmed its goal of global discipleship through Gospel proclamation "in the power of the Holy Spirit"[3].

The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada continues to shape Canada's religious landscape through its emphasis on spiritual renewal, community engagement, and cross-cultural evangelism.