An Introduction to World Methodism

by Kenneth Cracknell , Susan J. White

• ISBN13: 9780521818490
• ISBN10: 0521818494
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2005-05-30
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

The world Methodist community now numbers over 75 million people in more than 130 countries. The story of Methodism is fascinating and multi-faceted because there are so many distinct traditions within it, some stemming directly from Britain and some arising in the United States. In this book, the authors address the issue of what holds all Methodists together and examine the strengths and diversity of an influential major form of Christian life and witness. They look at the ways in which Methodism has become established throughout the world, examining historical and theological developments, and patterns of worship and spirituality, in their various cultural contexts. The book reflects both the lasting contributions of John and Charles Wesley, and the on-going contribution of Methodism to the ecumenical movement and inter-religious relations. It offers both analysis and abundant resources for further study.

Author Biography

Susan J. White is Alberta H. and Harold L. Lunger Professor of Spiritual Resources and Disciplines at Brite Divinity School, Fort Worth, Texas.

Table of Contents

List of illustrations	vi
Preface	vii
Acknowledgments	xi
List of abbreviations	xiii
Prologue	1	(242)
1 The beginning of world Methodism: John Wesley and his movement	5	(25)
2 The British Methodist tradition after John Wesley	30	(15)
3 Methodism in North America	45	(21)
4 World Methodism at the beginning of the twenty-first century	66	(26)
5 Methodist theology	92	(26)
6 The common life of Methodism	118	(23)
7 Methodist spirituality	141	(29)
8 Methodist worship	170	(39)
9 Methodist social ethics	209	(34)
10 Methodism's ecumenical and interfaith commitments	243	(21)
Epilogue	264	(4)
Further reading	268	(8)
General index	276	(5)
Index of names	281