Frequently asked questions about Methodism

John and Charles Wesley were part of a group of friends in Oxford who met regularly (methodically!) to pray, study the Bible and encourage good works. While travelling to America the brothers were moved by the faith of a group of Moravians during a dangerous storm. Shortly after their return to England, in May 1738 both John and Charles experienced a renewal of their faith (described by John as "a warmed heart").

John began a teaching ministry travelling all over on horseback and preaching in the open air. His ministry was particularly important to the working classes and those excluded from the organised religion of the time. Lay preachers were encouraged and like-minded groups set up around the country. Whilst not his intention, theological differences eventually led to separation from the Church of England.

• All need to be saved.
• All may be saved.
• All may know themselves saved.
• All may be saved to the uttermost.

This is a traditional summary of Methodist teaching. Methodists have always been clear that no one is beyond the reach of God's love. Salvation is there for everyone who turns to God and not just for a chosen few. We can all be assured of God's promise to love us. There are no limitations on what God can do for an individual.

"Salvation" and "being saved" are theological terms which can involve a lot of unpacking so on this website we use a slightly modified version of those Four Alls.

• We want to live a Holy Life

  We want the love of God to shine through every part of our lives and communities so we have a commitment to social justice.

• We are a Covenant People

  We hold an annual convenant service in which we celebrate all that God has done for us and affirm that we continue to give our lives and choices to God.

• Worship

  Our services may vary from week to week and we do not have a fixed liturgy. Worship may often be led by a local preacher, a lay person who has undergone special training.

• We are Born in Song!

  We are enthusiastic singers and singing is an important way for us to learn about, share and celebrate our faith. Charles Wesley wrote about 6000 hymns, many of which are sung today by Christians across the world.

• We are a grassroots movement

  Ordinary people play a major part in running the church. Small groups (class or fellowship groups) are important ways to encourage each other.

• We are part of a Connexion

  Methodists feel part of a large connected community, across this country and throughout the world. We aim to put the good of the whole body before our own individual needs.

A circuit is the Methodist name for a group of churches in a given locality. Sizes vary from circuits with just a few churches to mega-circuits which may have up to fifty (eg. Bristol is one such circuit). Our circuit has eleven churches and covers the coastal area from Rye down to Bexhill and inland to Battle and Brede, what is often today described as 1066 country.

The name is derived from Methodist history when ministers would travel from place to place (often on their horse) to visit the churches in their care.The route they would take was their particular "circuit".

Absolutely! Whether straight, gay, divorced or getting married for the first time, you are welcome to get married in a Methodist church. The Methodist Church understands marriage as the giving of two persons wholeheartedly to each other, whatever the sexual orientation of those involved.

You can find a copy of the marriage service here though, in practice, apart from the sections required by law, the service can be tailored to an individual couple through the use of additional readings, music and even through writing your own vows.

It should be acknowledged that some Methodists still hold a more traditional view of marriage and that is catered for through our church practice in allowing, as a matter of conscience, ministers and church officers to opt out of performing rituals which they find difficult. As a result, not all local Methodist churches have yet registered for same-sex marriages. However, your local minister can always put you in touch with a church that has.

The Methodist Church acknowledges the divine revelation recorded in the Holy Scriptures as the supreme rule of faith and practice.

However, whilst firmly believing the Bible is the Word of God, we do not believe everything in it is literally true but that the Bible also needs to be interpreted and understood through the the eyes of tradition, reason and experience (the Wesleyan quadrilateral). This has led to a growing understanding of God’s love and his purposes for the world.

The "wine" we use at our communion services is non-alcoholic and alcohol is not allowed on Methodist premises. This is due to the influence of the Temperance Movement on Victorian Methodism. However, we now feel that the decision about whether or not to drink alcohol is a matter of personal conscience whilst ensuring Methodist buildings are "safe spaces" for those who may find their relationship with alcohol difficult.