Date
10-14-2026
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Leadership (PhD)
Chair
Baylor Clark Whitney, Sr
Keywords
Church, Pentecostal, Revitalization, Rural, Appalachia, Church Revitalization
Disciplines
Christianity | Religion
Recommended Citation
Rowland, Justin W., "The Revitalization of Pentecostal Churches in Rural Appalachia" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8973.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8973
Abstract
Pentecostal churches in rural Appalachia face challenges such as declining attendance, aging congregations, demographic shifts, and changing cultural values. Although denominations such as the Church of God (Cleveland, Tennessee) and the Assemblies of God remain active throughout the region, many churches struggle to sustain growth and ministry effectiveness. Limited research has examined the factors that contribute to the health and vitality of thriving Pentecostal churches in this rural setting. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the characteristics and practices of healthy, growing Pentecostal churches in rural Appalachia to understand what contributes to their vitality, discipleship, and sustained congregational health. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 pastors serving thriving Pentecostal congregations in rural Appalachian communities. The interviews explored perspectives on church growth, discipleship, leadership, hospitality, community engagement, and spiritual development. Thematic analysis revealed several key factors associated with church vitality, including intentional hospitality, effective disciple-making, authentic community outreach, strong pastoral leadership, and a commitment to biblical teaching. Participants also identified common causes of church decline, such as resistance to change, weak discipleship efforts, limited community involvement, and an overreliance on tradition. This study contributes to the literature on Pentecostal church revitalization by offering practical insights from pastors who serve successful rural congregations. Pastors, church leaders, and denominational leaders can use these insights to strengthen congregational health, encourage sustainable growth, and support long-term ministry effectiveness.
