ABSTRACT
Case histories of selected Pentecostal churches are described by the "historians" of those congregations. To maintain the flavor, and historical accuracy, of church growth, the author made few editorial changes. Idioms such as "homegoing," "Lord called him from labor to rest," "Lord opened the door," and "Lord Jesus granted us favor" are uniquely expressive of African-American Pentecostals and provide insight into a culture that one can only glean from this research method. Problems encountered by Pentecostals are seen clearly in a movement fractured by personality cults. Yet, their inventive genius in molding viable congregations can both confound and amaze those not familiar with African-American Pentecostalism. The researcher's intrusions can only detract from its cultural richness. They can best explain their "Israelite wilderness journeys."
