Charles Wesley in America: Georgia, Charleston, Boston

In 1736, Charles Wesley arrived in America as a missionary of the Church of England, serving as Colonel Oglethorpe's aide and secretary of Indian Affairs. Despite facing discord and difficulty, including scandalous accusations from two women, Wesley struggled as a newly ordained Anglican priest. This book provides the first comprehensive treatment of this period, exploring Wesley's silence following the Oglethorpe affair, his negative attitudes towards the Revolutionary War, and his early opposition to slavery. It draws on primary sources such as Wesley's poetry and letters to offer fresh insight into this formative period and its impact on his later career.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

In 1736, a century into Britain's expansion in North America, Charles Wesley arrived in the American colonies and departed after a brief stay. His time in Georgia, where he served as a missionary of the Church of England, Colonel Oglethorpe's personal aide, and secretary of Indian Affairs, was marked by discord and challenges. Despite being welcomed warmly by the Anglican clergy of Boston, Wesley struggled as a newly ordained Anglican priest and faced scandal when two women accused him and Oglethorpe of moral impropriety.

Charles Wesley in America is the first comprehensive exploration of this pivotal period in Wesley's ministry. Author Kimbrough offers a groundbreaking explanation for Wesley's silence following the Oglethorpe affair, delving into his negative attitudes towards the Revolutionary War and early opposition to slavery. Drawing on primary sources such as Wesley's poetry and a rare letter exchange between two former slaves whom Wesley befriended in Bristol, Kimbrough provides fresh insights into this formative period and its profound impact on Wesley's later career.

Wesley's arrival in America marked a significant turning point in his life and ministry. He had been deeply influenced by the revivalist movements in Britain, which emphasized personal salvation and emotional experience. However, his time in Georgia exposed him to the harsh realities of colonial life, including the struggles of enslaved people and the ongoing conflict with Native Americans. These experiences shaped Wesley's perspective on social justice and led him to become a vocal advocate for abolitionism and the rights of marginalized communities.

During his time in Georgia, Wesley faced numerous challenges and obstacles. He was often at odds with the colonial government, which sought to control the church and its activities. Wesley's commitment to religious freedom and his refusal to conform to colonial regulations led to conflicts with local authorities. He also struggled to establish a viable ministry among the diverse population of Georgia, including Native Americans, enslaved people, and European settlers.

Despite these challenges, Wesley's time in Georgia was also marked by significant achievements. He established a number of churches and schools, which provided education and spiritual nourishment to the communities he served. He also forged close relationships with Native Americans, who respected his commitment to peace and his willingness to learn their language and culture.

Wesley's departure from Georgia in 1738 marked the end of a challenging and formative period in his life. He returned to England, where he continued to preach and write, and where he played a key role in the development of the Methodist movement. Wesley's teachings and writings had a profound impact on the Christian world, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence people today.

In conclusion, Charles Wesley's time in America was a crucial period in his life and ministry. His experiences in Georgia exposed him to the harsh realities of colonial life and shaped his perspective on social justice. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, Wesley's time in Georgia was marked by significant achievements and contributions to the Christian community. His legacy continues to inspire and influence people today, and his teachings and writings remain a valuable resource for those seeking to live out their faith in a world that continues to face complex social and political challenges.

Weight: 206g
Dimension: 136 x 215 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780718896584