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The Methodist Church of Great Britain | History

History

Wesley's childhood Wesley's Childhood
Samuel and Susannah Wesley raised their many children in a home where faith, discipline and concern for justice went hand in hand.		   The Holy Club The Holy Club
At Oxford, John and Charles were part of a group of friends who met regularly to pray, study the Bible and encourage good works.
a storm at sea A storm at sea
Travelling to America, the brothers were much affected by the faith of a group of Moravians during a dangerous storm.		   The conversions The 'conversions'
Within a few days of each other, both John and Charles experienced a renewal of their faith and assurance of salvation.
Preaching Preaching
John began his countrywide teaching ministry when he reluctantly preached in a field in Bristol.		   social justice Social justice
The Wesleys encouraged practical care and reform in many areas of social justice.
All can be saved Wesleyan theology
John Wesley followed Arminian teaching, which unlike Calvinism believed that all could be saved, not just the 'elect'.		   Classes Societies and classes
The regular and intense small group was a key feature of Methodism's growth.
The Conference The birth of the Methodist Conference
As the Methodist Societies grew, an annual conference of preachers was a way of keeping in touch.		   John Wesley Separation from the Church of England
Though John Wesley did not intend a split, this became inevitable.
All can be saved Primitive Methodism
In the early 19th century, there was a split between those who favoured open air evangelism and those who were by now more institutional.		   John Wesley Temperance
Methodism identified itself with the 'total abstinence' temperance movement. Today, alcohol consumption is a personal choice.
All can be saved Heritage sites
Information for visitors, where key areas of Methodist heritage can be explored by region.		   John Wesley Methodist Anniversaries 2007
A website with details of events and celebrations associated with key Methodist anniversaries in 2007.
Researching Methodist history Researching Methodist History
Information to assist research into all aspects of Methodist history