Methodists

Methodists are followers within a family of Christian denominations that trace their roots to the 18th-century Methodist revival led by John Wesley and his brother Charles within the Church of England. The movement grew from a methodical approach to religious life, including disciplined study, prayer, and service, and it developed into a distinct tradition within Christianity. Methodism emphasizes personal conversion, holiness of heart, and social responsibility.

Theology within Methodism is broadly Arminian, teaching salvation by grace through faith for all people, and the possibility of sanctification or Christian perfection in this life. The Wesleyan Quadrilateral—Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience—has influenced how Methodists understand faith and practice, though emphasis varies among denominations. Core beliefs often include the authority of the Bible, the centrality of grace, and the possibility of growth in holiness through God’s help.

Worship and practice typically feature regular participation in baptism and the Lord’s Supper, hymnody (much of it by Charles Wesley), and a strong tradition of lay involvement. Small group and class meeting structures have historically supported spiritual formation and accountability, though organizational forms differ across denominations.

Organization in Methodism generally follows a connectional system where churches are linked through regional conferences and, in many branches, bishops. The United Methodist Church is the largest denomination in many countries and uses an episcopal structure; other Methodists belong to groups such as the Free Methodist Church, the Wesleyan Church, or various Holiness and related bodies.

Today, Methodists are a global family of denominations rather than a single church. Differences over issues such as social and ethical questions have influenced recent realignments in some regions, including the formation of separate bodies in certain contexts.