The The Limits of a Catholic Spirit: John Wesley, Methodism, and Catholicism

The Limits of a Catholic Spirit is a book that examines John Wesley's relationship with Catholicism and challenges the idea that he proposed principles of religious tolerance in his sermon, Catholic Spirit. It provides a fresh perspective on Wesley's interactions with Catholicism, including his relationship with the Jesuits, Jacobitism, the anti-Catholic Gordon Riots, and his time in Ireland, based on rare primary sources from the National Archives.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 29 June 2023
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

The Limits of a Catholic Spirit is an exceptional and comprehensive exploration of John Wesley's complex relationship with Catholicism. In this profound study, Kelly Diehl Yates delves into the boundaries of Wesley's ideal of a Catholic spirit, shedding light on the extent to which he practiced this vision as an evangelical Protestant. Through the meticulous examination of rare primary sources from the National Archives, Yates offers a fresh and insightful perspective on Wesley's interaction and strained relationship with Catholicism, venturing into less explored territory in studies of his theology.

Contrary to the revisionist scholars who argue that Wesley proposed principles of religious tolerance in his sermon "Catholic Spirit," Yates contends that Wesley did not anticipate unity between Protestants and Catholics. Instead, he remained deeply entrenched in his anti-Catholic beliefs. By addressing this previously neglected gap in Wesley studies, Yates presents an exemplary historical and critical exploration that addresses questions that have perplexed Wesley scholars for decades. These questions encompass Wesley's relationship with the Jesuits, his support for Jacobitism, the anti-Catholic Gordon Riots of 1780, and his time in Ireland.

Yates approaches these topics through a series of historical case studies, providing a fresh and insightful perspective on these complex issues. Through meticulous research and analysis, Yates offers answers to these questions and delves deeper into the nuances of Wesley's thought and actions. The Limits of a Catholic Spirit is a valuable contribution to the field of Wesley studies, offering a deeper understanding of one of the most influential figures in Christian history.

Weight: 398g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780718896607