Methodism

A revival of warm-hearted faith and disciplined holiness within Protestantism.

from 1739 CE → · Britain, then worldwide · Abrahamic

Methodism grew from the revival led by John Wesley within 18th-century Anglicanism, stressing that salvation is open to all and that believers are called to grow toward holiness through disciplined, methodical devotion and small accountability groups. Famous for its hymns and open-air preaching, it joined personal piety to vigorous social reform. It became one of the largest Protestant families worldwide.

Key figures

• John Wesley (founder)
• Charles Wesley (hymn writer)

Texts

• The Bible
• Wesley’s sermons and hymns

Beliefs

• Salvation offered freely to all
• Growth toward holiness of heart and life
• Faith active in social good

Rituals

• Preaching and hymn singing
• Small groups for accountability
• Communion and personal devotion

Grew from

• Anglicanism

Connections in the atlas

• Sojourner Truth
• Epworth Old Rectory
• The Underground Railroad
• Wesley’s Journal: Aldersgate
• The Akan and the Asante
• ▶ The Reformation and after
• John Wesley