Date of Award

12-17-1996

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS)

Department

Seminary

Abstract

From its very inception, the Foursquare denomination has functioned in the gifting of creativity. Just as in genetic coding family traits are passed down, there is a freedom of Spirit and blessing from God to be received by current Foursquare pastors from Aimee Semple McPherson's legacy of unique spiritual gifts. This denomination, once thought of as a cult, is now one of the fastest growing denominations in the United States and is known throughout the charismatic community worldwide. Each church in the denomination functions or is in process of receiving its own special or unique gift. This paper seeks to illustrate a denominational receptivity to potential creativity resident in each church as observed in its founder, Aimee Semple McPherson.

It will be important to look at Aimee's life and the growth of Angelus Temple. The establishment of the church and denomination will be studied to ascertain the role of creativity in both Aimee and the church. It is important to try to determine how much of Aimee's creativity influenced the Foursquare movement at its inception, continuing to the present time. How would this creativity be defined and where is it seen within the church? What role does it play today? It is fitting to explore the ways the church feels it continues to resemble Aimee. How should the church nurture and sustain creativity? These are all questions to be addressed and supported in the chapters ahead.

Chapter one will review the life of Aimee Semple McPherson and the development of the Foursquare denomination. Chapter two will define creativity. Chapter three will address the Foursquare church today and the ways in which it is creative. Chapter four will talk about nurturing creativity within the church.

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