History of Methodism in the United States

Methodism in the United States has a rich and influential history, marked by revivalism, social activism, and organizational development. The purpose of this study is to give an overview of key events and developments in the history of Methodism in the United States.

History of Methodism in the United States

1. Table of Contents

   Toggle

   Wesleyan Revival and Early Methodism:

   • Methodism originated in England as a movement within the Church of England led by John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley in the 18th century.

2. Francis Asbury and American Methodism (1771):

   • The spread of Methodism to the American colonies is often credited to Francis Asbury, an English Methodist preacher who arrived in America in 1771. Asbury became a prominent figure in early American Methodism and played a key role in organizing the Methodist Episcopal Church.

3. Formation of the Methodist Episcopal Church (1784):

   • The Methodist Episcopal Church was officially organized at the Christmas Conference in Baltimore in 1784. It marked the formal separation of American Methodism from the Church of England, and Thomas Coke and Francis Asbury were elected as the first bishops.

4. Circuit Riders and Expansion (Late 18th-19th centuries):

   • Methodist preachers, often referred to as circuit riders, traveled extensively to spread the Methodist message and organize new societies. The itinerant nature of these preachers contributed to the rapid expansion of Methodism, particularly in the frontier regions.

5. Camp Meetings and Revivals:

   • Camp meetings, large outdoor religious gatherings, became a hallmark of American Methodism in the early 19th century. These events, characterized by emotional preaching and fervent worship, attracted large crowds and played a significant role in the Second Great Awakening.

6. The Holiness Movement:

   • The Holiness Movement emerged within Methodism, emphasizing the possibility of Christian perfection and holiness in the believer’s life. Holiness preachers, such as Phoebe Palmer, contributed to the theological landscape of American Methodism.

7. Denominational Divisions (19th century):

   • The issue of slavery led to tensions within the Methodist Episcopal Church, eventually resulting in a split into Northern and Southern branches in 1844. This division mirrored broader sectional conflicts in the United States.

8. United Methodist Church (1968):

   • In 1968, the Methodist Church merged with the Evangelical United Brethren Church to form the United Methodist Church (UMC). The UMC became one of the largest Protestant denominations in the United States.

9. Social Activism and Social Gospel (Late 19th-20th centuries):

   • Methodists have a long history of social activism. In the 20th century, the Social Gospel movement within Methodism addressed issues of poverty, labor rights, and social justice.

10. Role in the Civil Rights Movement:

    • The United Methodist Church was active in the Civil Rights Movement. Prominent figures like Bishop Leontine T.C. Kelly and Rev. James Lawson were involved in advocating for racial equality.

11. Women in Ministry:

    • Methodism has been at the forefront of ordaining women into ministry. The United Methodist Church, for example, has ordained women as pastors and bishops since the late 1950s.

12. Contemporary Challenges and Debates:

    • The United Methodist Church has faced internal debates over issues related to human sexuality, leading to discussions about a potential split or reorganization. These debates reflect broader discussions within mainline Protestantism.

The history of Methodism in the United States reflects a dynamic and influential force in American Christianity. From its roots in the Wesleyan revival to its present challenges and opportunities, Methodism has played a significant role in shaping the religious landscape of the nation.