LE3 .A278 2019

2019

Althouse, Peter

Acadia University

Doctor of Ministry

D.Min.

Ministry

Acadia Divinity College

The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) is in the process of re-examining its doctrine as articulated in the Statement of Fundamental Beliefs and Essential Truths. Additionally, the PAOC has concurrentlyinitiated national initiatives to revitalize its spiritual vitality. The time could not be more suitable for theological reflection. Some who study Pentecostal theology and spirituality often consider Pentecostalism to be defined largely by one unique theological and experiential distinctive, Spirit baptism, with the manifestation of glossolalia following as initial evidence of the experience. Although it cannot be denied that this distinctive feature remains an important one, current Pentecostal scholarship would suggest this distinctive to be only one among many and scholars are now re-presenting a more coherent theology that deserves renewed attention. This research is an examination of the theological and spiritual priorities facing Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) practitioners in their contemporary contexts. PAOC practitioners have expressed a desire to understand what other olleagues are believing and experiencing from a Pentecostal spiritual perspective. Additionally, practitioners want to know that colleagues are planning to do about a perceived “Theological drift” from forms of classical Pentecostal spirituality in their respective contexts. This study will provide some of the answers to the questions these ministers are posing and offer a potential way forward for those wishing to lead their congregation into a revitalized Pentecostal spirituality.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:3208