Pentecostal Fellowship of North America (PFNA)

On October 26, 1948, leaders representing twenty-four Pentecostal bodies from the United States and Canada gathered in Des Moines, Iowa, and organized the Pentecostal Fellowship of North America. In an era when sharp words and separate meetings were common, they chose a braver course: to seek fellowship without surrendering conviction, and to honor Christ above personal preference, regional rivalry, or old wounds.

The PFNA was not formed to erase doctrinal distinctives, but to encourage cooperation where Scripture allowed—especially in evangelism, missions, and practical help. They committed to meet annually, believing that consistent, face-to-face fellowship could soften suspicion, strengthen trust, and promote honest counsel among ministers charged with guarding their flocks.

Des Moines, Iowa—A Gathering Place

Des Moines offered a central, accessible location for a cross-border meeting at a time when travel still demanded sacrifice. The setting mattered: away from any single denomination’s headquarters, the city provided neutral ground where superintendents, bishops, pastors, and missionaries could pray together and speak plainly. Their unity was not sentimental; it was pursued through patience, listening, and a shared reverence for the authority of God’s Word.

Spiritual Courage and Christian Character

The heroism of October 1948 was the quiet kind—leaders laying down pride, refusing to demonize brethren, and seeking peace without compromising truth. Such humility is costly, because it requires repentance where needed and restraint where disputes inflame. Yet they believed division weakens witness, and that a watching world should see believers marked by love and holiness.

Jesus prayed, “that all of them may be one… so that the world may believe that You sent Me” (John 17:21). The apostolic command is equally plain: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

Legacy and Ongoing Call

The PFNA’s early years helped Pentecostals practice cooperation across denominational lines while keeping Christ central. Its example continues to summon believers to unity that is disciplined by truth, purified by holiness, and strengthened by prayer—so the gospel is adorned, and the church stands together with courage and charity.