Portugal

Igreja Evangélica Metodista Portuguesa
(The Portuguese Methodist Church)

The Igreja Evangélica Metodista Portuguesa (Portuguese Methodist Church) continues to serve as a vibrant Christian witness in a predominantly Roman Catholic and increasingly secular society.

Its work covers mainly the northern part of the country. Rooted in a strong sense of mission and community, the Church is actively engaged in pastoral care, youth and children’s ministries, and social outreach.

Much of its work is carried out by dedicated volunteers, especially in areas such as women’s ministry and youth engagement.

A key initiative is the ‘Missão CREIO’, a decade-long national plan focused on strengthening existing congregations, training leaders, and planting new churches.

The Church operates two solidarity centres—one in Valdozende and another near Aveiro—providing vital social services such as food support, educational assistance, and care for the elderly and children.

The Church remains committed to ecumenical and interfaith collaboration, embodying its mission to share the love of Christ through both word and action.

History

The Methodist Church in Portugal began in 1854 through the efforts of two English laymen, Thomas Chegwin and James Cassels, who formed small Bible study and prayer groups.

The first chapel was built in Vila Nova de Gaia in 1868, and in 1871, Rev. Robert Hawkey Moreton arrived from the Methodist Missionary Society to formally organise the Church.

Under his leadership, the Church expanded and launched a major educational campaign to combat illiteracy. The early 20th century saw significant growth, with new congregations and schools, and the Church became a respected voice in Portuguese Protestantism.

For many years, the Portuguese Methodist Church functioned as a district of the British Methodist Church. It wasn’t until 1996 that it became fully autonomous, adopting the name Igreja Evangélica Metodista Portuguesa and electing its own bishop.

Today, it is recognised as one of Portugal’s historic Protestant churches. With a modest, committed and growing membership, the Church continues to uphold its founding values of faith, service, and unity, contributing meaningfully to the religious and social fabric of Portuguese society.