A Wesleyan-Pentecostal denomination with deep roots in the American Holiness movement and North Carolina, emphasizing entire sanctification, Spirit baptism, and divine healing.
The International Pentecostal Holiness Church (IPHC) is one of the oldest Pentecostal denominations in the United States, with roots in the 19th-century Holiness movement and direct connections to the Azusa Street Revival. The denomination traces its origins to 1898 and was formally organized in its current form in 1911 through the merger of several Holiness bodies. It has a particular historical significance in North Carolina: the IPHC's predecessor bodies were active in the Tar Heel State, and the denomination has maintained a strong presence in the Carolinas for over a century.
Theologically, the IPHC stands in the Wesleyan-Pentecostal tradition, teaching a four-fold gospel: salvation, sanctification (as a second definite work of grace), Spirit baptism (evidenced by tongues), and divine healing. This three-stage ordo salutis aligns it with the Church of God (Cleveland, TN) and COGIC rather than the Assemblies of God.
The IPHC is notable for its connection to Oral Roberts University, founded by Oral Roberts, an IPHC minister, and for its global missions emphasis. In Fayetteville, the IPHC has 10 congregations, reflecting its historic strength in North Carolina.
The IPHC is distinguished by its Wesleyan-Pentecostal theology, its deep roots in the Carolinas, and its three-stage ordo salutis (justification, sanctification, Spirit baptism). It differs from the Assemblies of God in its Wesleyan understanding of sanctification.
Expressive and Spirit-led, with contemporary praise and worship, prayer for healing, and openness to the gifts of the Spirit.
Roots in 1898; formally organized 1911.
Its historic connection to Oral Roberts, its deep roots in the Carolinas, and its Wesleyan-Pentecostal theological tradition.