Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Title
Date(s)
- 1882 (Creation)
Extent
1-10000
Name of creator
Administrative history
The Apostolic Holiness Union was organized in 1897 at the home of Rev. Martin Wells Knapp in Cincinnati, Ohio, as a response to a growing concern that key doctrines such as divine healing, Christ’s return, and global evangelism were being neglected in the broader Holiness Movement. The founders felt called to form a more permanent organization to preserve and promote the Full Gospel. In 1905, the group was renamed the International Apostolic Holiness Union and Churches. Over time, it became clear that the Union's interdenominational model was no longer effective, and by 1913 there was consensus to move toward a more structured church identity. In 1919, the Holiness Christian Church united with the International Apostolic Holiness Church after much prayer and deliberation. The merger was finalized at the quadrennial assembly at God’s Bible School in Cincinnati, and the newly combined body adopted the name International Holiness Church, reflecting their shared mission to advance the Gospel.
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
This series contains records from the district-level governance bodies of the International Holiness Church, which serve as regional administrative units within the broader church structure. The records document district oversight of local churches, clergy, and ministries, including conference minutes, correspondence, reports, appointments, statistics, financials, and policy documents.
They reflect the districts’ role in implementing denominational policy, supervising ministry, and supporting regional church growth, while highlighting the administrative and spiritual priorities of the International Holiness Church over time.