Eureka Springs Assembly (1916)

On December 28, 1916, believers gathered in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, for seven days of meetings that combined worship, prayer, and practical deliberation. Eureka Springs—known for its hills, springs, and boarding houses—became an unlikely winter refuge where traveling ministers and lay leaders could speak face to face. In an era when news traveled slowly and misunderstandings spread quickly, their decision to assemble in person showed resolve. They met not as spectators but as workers, seeking the Lord together and bearing one another’s burdens. Their shared aim echoed Scripture’s call: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

Organization and Purpose

During these meetings they organized the General Assembly of Apostolic Assemblies. The body sought to strengthen fellowship and bring order to evangelism, missions, and ministerial credentials at a time of increasing doctrinal controversy and national uncertainty. Many ministers were itinerant evangelists, moving from town to town with few safeguards for accountability; others were local pastors carrying the spiritual care of small congregations without outside support. By credentialing ministers and encouraging cooperative missions, they aimed to protect churches from confusion, encourage faithful preaching, and promote holy conduct that adorned the gospel. Their efforts reflected a conviction that spiritual zeal and spiritual order belong together: “But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner” (1 Corinthians 14:40).

War Pressures and Brief Institutional Life

World War I soon pressed in on American life. As the nation moved toward mobilization, many ministers of military age needed recognized standing for chaplaincy consideration or for clarity regarding service obligations. Formed too late to secure recognition for many, the assembly’s institutional life proved brief. Yet the courage shown in those days was real: believers praying while headlines darkened, laboring for unity when disagreement would have been easier, and choosing cooperation over suspicion.

Legacy

Though short-lived, the General Assembly of Apostolic Assemblies left a lasting testimony. Their earnest desire to serve Christ faithfully—through fellowship, disciplined ministry, and shared mission—encouraged later cooperation in Pentecostal witness and reminded the churches that unity is not accidental, but prayed for, worked for, and guarded.