A historical and descriptive introduction. Local practice varies; the examples below are not a judgment of a community’s faithfulness.
When and how it began
John and Charles Wesley’s movement emphasized disciplined discipleship within the Church of England. Separate Methodist institutions emerged over time; American Methodists organized the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1784.
Beliefs and practices
God’s grace, faith in Christ, growth in holiness, small-group accountability, and service are characteristic. Baptism and Communion are practiced; infant baptism is common.
A typical worship service
Worship may include hymns, prayers, Scripture, preaching, and Communion, with either liturgical or contemporary forms.
What the worship space looks like
An altar or Communion table, pulpit, font, and cross are common; meeting spaces vary widely.
Branches and differences
United Methodist, Global Methodist, African Methodist Episcopal, AME Zion, Free Methodist, and other bodies have distinct histories and policies. Historically Black Methodist churches also emerged in response to racial exclusion. Methodist and Wesleyan labels overlap with Holiness traditions.
Explore related profiles
Sources & further reading
Historical overviews support the account of origins. Official church documents describe the community’s own beliefs and practice.
- World Council of Churches · historical overview ↗
- United Methodist Church · John Wesley ↗
- Pew · Denominational classification ↗
- African Methodist Episcopal Church · History ↗
Reviewed September 24, 2026. Broad family descriptions do not settle local policies or every contested point of history.