History
The history of England dates back more than 2000 years, when many tribes began settling the area. The islands that make up the United Kingdom are dotted with ancient castles, ruins, and other historical landmarks. Over the centuries emperors and kings struggled for control over the land and its people, but in modern times a unified nation has risen, its influence and culture spreading to the farthest ends of the world.
Church History
The formation of the Assemblies of God in Great Britain and Ireland was motivated by the need for fellowship and cooperation between emerging Pentecostal churches. The first meeting was held in February 1924 in Birmingham, England. The founders of the Fellowship combined the desire for interchurch support and cooperation together with clear recognition of the right of each church to govern its own affairs. Like the Assemblies of God (USA), the Assemblies of God Great Britain is self-governing and self-financing.
The first conference of the Assemblies of God was held in May 1924 in London. There a board was elected, the work of sending missionaries considered, the decision made to publish a magazine, and a statement of fundamental truths drawn up.
The Fellowship grew rapidly, helped notably by remarkable campaigns conducted all over the country by men like Stephen Jeffreys. The leaders of the Fellowship were mature men whose names are still held in high esteem not only in this country but worldwide, including Donald Gee, Howard and John Carter, and Harold Horton, whose books have become classics on Pentecostal doctrine.
In the 1960s a great charismatic revival spread across the country. Many were filled with the Holy Spirit, and the fire of Pentecost was brought to several denominations for the first time.
The Movement Today
The Assemblies of God Great Britain strongly emphasizes world evangelism and partners with the U.S. Assemblies of God in many foreign ministries. The Assemblies of God Great Britain reports the following statistics: 559 churches and 56,000 members and adherents. More information is available on the website.
Additional Facts About England
Capital: London
Area: 50,346 square miles
Population: 53 million
Urbanization: 79 percent
Government: constitutional monarchy
Agriculture: cereals, sheep, cattle, pigs
Industry: banking, chemicals, pharmaceutical, aerospace, livestock, metals, and vehicles