The Methodist movement is a group of historically related denominations of Protestant Christianity which derive their inspiration from the life and teachings of John Wesley. George Whitefield and John's brother Charles Wesley were also significant leaders in the movement. It originated as a revival within the 18th-century Church of England and became a separate Church following Wesley's death. Due to vigorous missionary activity, the movement spread throughout the British Empire, the United States, and beyond, today claiming approximately 70 million adherents worldwide.
Methodism in 1632[]
Methodism was introduced into 17th century Europe by the arrival of Grantville in 1631 — 72 years before John Wesley had been born in the OTL. Grantville's Methodist church also introduced the idea of the ordination of women into 17th century Europe, as it was pastored by the husband/wife team of Simon and Mary Ellen Jones.
Methodism's roots in Anglicanism were known from Grantville's encyclopedias. This caused trouble for Bartholomew Westley, as he was accused of "plotting schism" because of what his great-grandsons had done in the OTL, and forced to flee England.
Note[]
Methodism's future in the new timeline is uncertain. Grantville's Methodist church will probably be able to sustain itself for some time, especially after the rather successful matchmaking campaign Mary Ellen Jones conducted among the church's younger members.[1] However, the church has experienced little growth. So far, Methodism has largely remained an up-time faith for up-timers.
It is also not clear whether the idea of "Wesleyanism" will be more identified with the preaching of Bartholomew Westley than with that of the never-to-be-born John Wesley.
References[]
- ↑ 1635: The Dreeson Incident, ch. 29