On May 12, 1886, brethren in Providence, R.I., interested in promoting the Wesleyan doctrine and experience of entire sanctification, held weekly religious services in private homes. Later, the group moved to a rented store on Oxford Street. On January 16, 1887, they started a Sunday School with 95 members. On July 21, 1887, the People’s Evangelical Church was organized with 51 members. Rev. Fred A. Hillery was the pastor.