Lessons from 1918: How IPHC Pentecostals Responded to the Last Global Pandemic
Image from 1918 Influenza Pandemic [1] As the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread through America, there were competing opinions about how Pentecostals should respond. Fortunately, the International Pentecostal Holiness Church (IPHC/PHC) provided early guidance, education and support for pastors. As a denomination, we chose to err on the side of caution and cooperation. Churches moved forward with creative energy. Some might wonder how early Pentecostals, especially those in the International Pentecostal Holiness Church, would have responded to similar circumstances, though. It just so happens that history can help us answer that question. Rev. Ricky Nelms (Archives Council Member, NC IPHC) and I reviewed Pentecostal Holiness Advocates (PHA) that were published from 1918- 1920. This was the official periodical of IPHC during that time period. I also searched autobiographies. Our research goal was to learn how our denomination responded to practical and theological issues relate...
