The IPHC has consistently held that its members cannot belong to secret societies and be a member of the IPHC. In recent years pastors and laity have asked for a clearer statement from biblical, theological, and societal perspectives. That position paper is available here. For pastors and laity, this is an excellent resource to help you as questions arise in your local congregations.
Dr. Jason Cook, IPHC pastor of the Refuge Church in Conway, South Carolina, and I discussed this nearly two years ago. Holding a Bachelor of Arts from Emmanuel University, Master of Arts in Theology and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Liberty University, I asked him to prepare a paper for the IPHC Council of Bishops.
Dr. Cook wrote, “From its earliest documented days in 1902, the IPHC has maintained a clear opposition to secret orders, a stance that has remained consistent throughout its history.”
Dr. Cook’s study and paper has undergo extensive IPHC peer review and was accepted by the Council of Bishops as stating the justifications of the denominations position on secret societies and orders. The IPHC is grateful for the growing number of ministers who are preparing themselves academically and maintaining a robust commitment to the teachings of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church.
