The founder of The Methodist Movement was John Wesley, assisted by his brother, Charles – the great song writer (he wrote some of the all time favorite hymns like, “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing” and “Christ the Lord is Risen Today!” plus about 6,000 others!). They grew up as preacher’s kids (pk’s) –their father Samuel Wesley was a priest in The Church of England and they had 15 siblings, though several died in infancy.

Their mother Susanna was a remarkable women and greatly influenced her children’s spiritual growth. A tragic house fire at the parsonage – possibly intentionally set – almost took the life of little John Wesley at age five. He was rescued from a second story window by two men – one standing on the shoulders of the other. His mother Susanna believed this was a miracle and believed John was spared for a great work because he was “a brand plucked from the burning”… Indeed, we owe him for birthing The Methodist Movement.

It was originally a movement within the Church of England to help reform it. John Wesley never intended it to be a new church. He wanted it simply to be a catalyst for change. In fact, The Methodist Church was first established in America at The Christmas Conference of 1784 in Baltimore at Lovely Lane Meeting House. We are the first American denomination. Wesley preached over 40,000 sermons and traveled nearly 250,000 miles by horseback. He was a most faithful witness for Jesus Christ!

We have a special opportunity to bring professional actor Roger Nelson from California to portray John Wesley in “The Man from Aldersgate” during our 120th Anniversary Celebration this Sunday April 19th at 10:30am. Be sure to note the earlier time. We’ll be having Sunday school at 9:30 and one service at 10:30am. A reunion Choir will be featured in worship, greetings from Bishop Robert Hayes, Jr., a group photo on the West steps, followed by a Fellowship Luncheon and creative program highlighting our history in Harris Hall. Stan and Susan Cosby plan to be present, as well as some other former Associate Pastors. This promises to be a very special day! I look forward to seeing you here!

Blessings to you!

Yours in Christ’s Love,
Mark