Phoenix and Pentecostalism in the 1920s
Phoenix in 1923 was vastly different from the sprawling metropolis of today. It was a relatively small city, with a population estimated around 30,000, deeply rooted in agriculture enabled by the Salt River Project’s irrigation systems. The city was experiencing growth and modernization but retained a distinct Southwestern character. Simultaneously, the Pentecostal movement, specifically the Assemblies of God (AG), was still a relatively young denomination, officially formed less than a decade earlier in 1914 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The AG emerged from the fervor of early 20th-century revivals (like the Azusa Street Revival) emphasizing spiritual gifts, divine healing, and evangelism. Establishing an Assemblies of God church in Phoenix in 1923 placed Phoenix First Assembly within this burgeoning, dynamic religious movement during a formative period for both the city and the denomination.
Establishment and Early Development (1923 – Mid-Century)
Phoenix First Assembly was officially founded in 1923. Records identify John Eiting as the founder. As an Assemblies of God congregation, it adhered to the denomination’s Pentecostal doctrines and polity from its inception. Details regarding the specific location of early meetings, the initial size of the congregation, or specific milestones during its first few decades are sparse in commonly available online historical summaries. It is reasonable to infer, however, that like many churches of that era, its beginnings were modest, likely involving small gatherings that grew organically over time.
Throughout the mid-20th century (the 1930s through the 1960s), Phoenix experienced significant growth, spurred by factors like air conditioning, World War II military installations, and post-war migration. Phoenix First Assembly grew alongside the city, transitioning from a fledgling congregation into an established church within the local religious landscape. While specific pastors or major events from this period are not frequently highlighted in easily accessible summaries focused on the later megachurch era, this period was crucial for building the organizational structure, congregational base, and community presence that would serve as the foundation for future expansion. It established its identity as a stable Pentecostal church within the growing Phoenix community.
The Pre-Barnett Era Culmination (Mid-Century – 1978)
By the 1970s, Phoenix First Assembly was an established Assemblies of God church with decades of history in the city. While not yet the megachurch it would become, it represented a significant Pentecostal presence. The broader cultural and religious landscape of America was shifting, and churches were adapting to new societal trends. Information regarding the specific size, programs, or leadership immediately preceding Tommy Barnett’s arrival is limited in the summarized sources. However, the church that existed in 1978 was the product of over five decades of ministry, community building, and adherence to Pentecostal traditions within the specific context of Phoenix, Arizona. It possessed the history, structure, and congregational core that attracted the attention of a proven church builder like Tommy Barnett.
Conclusion
The period from 1923 to 1978 represents the essential foundational era of Phoenix First Assembly, later known as Dream City Church. Founded by John Eiting within the context of early 20th-century Phoenix and the burgeoning Assemblies of God movement, the church established itself and grew steadily alongside the city for over five decades. While specific details of this era are less documented in easily accessible public narratives compared to the subsequent period of dramatic growth, these years were critical in establishing the church’s identity, organizational structure, and community presence. This foundational period laid the groundwork upon which the significant expansions and transformations of the Barnett eras would be built, demonstrating the church’s long-standing connection to the history and development of Phoenix.
