November 4, 2009
NEWS STORY
Pentecostals split over speaking in tongues
By Tim Townsend
RNS-PENTECOSTAL-TONGUES
STEELE, Mo. (RNS) Speaking in tongues is so central to the 3 million-member, Missouri-based Assemblies of God, that denominational leaders voted unanimously to reaffirm it as doctrine at the church's General Council meeting in August. Reaffirmation of one of Pentecostalism's central tenets was necessary, according to the resolution voted on at the meeting, because speaking in tongues "has come under certain scrutiny." But some young pastors say other features of their faith are more pragmatic and helpful for their flocks. By Tim Townsend. About 900.