United Pentecostal Church International
The United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) is the largest and most influential Oneness Pentecostal organization in the world. Founded in 1945 through the merger of two earlier Pentecostal groups—the Pentecostal Church, Incorporated, and the Pentecostal Assemblies of Jesus Christ—the UPCI emerged with the goal of uniting believers who shared a distinct theological identity centered on the “Oneness” understanding of God. This doctrine emphasizes the absolute unity of God, rejecting the traditional concept of the Trinity. According to UPCI teaching, Jesus Christ is the full manifestation of God in human form, encompassing the roles of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
The UPCI’s theology places strong emphasis on the necessity of repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, and the infilling of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues. These three experiences are viewed as essential components of the New Testament plan of salvation. Water baptism, in particular, is performed by full immersion and is always conducted “in the name of Jesus Christ,” reflecting the church’s interpretation of Acts 2:38. The movement’s focus on holiness also extends to lifestyle practices—members are encouraged to pursue modesty, moral purity, and separation from worldly behaviors. This includes distinctive guidelines regarding dress, entertainment, and personal conduct, seen as outward expressions of an inward commitment to God.
From its beginnings in the mid-twentieth century, the UPCI experienced steady growth, propelled by a strong missionary vision and grassroots evangelism. The church quickly expanded beyond its North American base, establishing congregations and Bible schools in numerous countries. Today, it operates in well over 200 nations and territories, with millions of adherents worldwide. The denomination’s headquarters are located in Weldon Spring, Missouri, from which it oversees a wide range of ministries, including global missions, youth and children’s programs, ministerial training, and humanitarian initiatives.
Worship within UPCI congregations is typically characterized by passionate, expressive praise, spontaneous prayer, and an emphasis on personal spiritual experience. Services often include lively singing, preaching that stresses biblical authority, and altar calls that invite individuals to respond to the message through prayer and commitment. The church’s culture values spiritual fervor, community involvement, and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in believers’ lives.
Education and leadership development are also key priorities for the UPCI. The church supports several colleges and training institutes, most notably Urshan College and Urshan Graduate School of Theology, which prepare ministers and lay leaders for service. Publications, conferences, and digital media further extend the denomination’s influence and foster unity among its global membership.
The UPCI continues to see itself as a restoration of the original apostolic faith and practices found in the early church. Its members aim to preserve biblical doctrine while adapting their methods to reach an ever-changing world. Despite theological differences with Trinitarian denominations, the UPCI maintains a strong commitment to evangelism, holiness, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Through its unwavering focus on the name of Jesus and the apostolic message, the United Pentecostal Church International remains a dynamic force within modern Christianity.