History
The history of Scotland dates to the early Middle Ages. In 1707 it formed a political union with England to form Great Britain. Throughout its history Scotland has been active in trade and today is a leading financial services center. Over the centuries emperors and kings struggled for control over the land and its people. In modern times the country has continued to develop, and in 1999 a Scottish Parliament was reconvened, giving it authority over local affairs.
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. A board was elected, the work of sending missionaries was considered, the decision was made to publish a magazine, and a statement of fundamental truths was drawn up.
The Fellowship grew rapidly, helped notably by the 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 Scotland 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 for Scotland: 50 churches and about 4200 members and adherents. More information is available from the website.
Additional Facts About Scotland
Capital: Edinburgh
Area: 30,090 square miles
Population: 5.4 million
Government: devolved parliamentary legislature within a constitutional monarchy
Agriculture: cereals, oilseed, potatoes, wool, and lamb
Industry: shipbuilding, coal, steel, oil and gas, electronics, banking, and distilling