United Methodist Exploration
The history, beliefs, and traditions of the United Methodist religion are actively conveyed in their worship setting. The historical background stems from one search for true grace. The beliefs and traditions are explained through holy books and are examined through practices at church services.
Methodism's historical origins are sprung from one man's need to reach out to everyone. John Wesley, along with his brother Charles, wanted to provide something all people could find hope in, regardless of class (Tucker 8). John Wesley was a priest in the Church of England in the 1700's. Wesley was beginning an outbreak from the Anglican Church of England. The Methodist traditions, based on grace and service, had a warming and significant impact on England (Campbell 70). The religion evolved over time and eventually, in 1968, The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church united to form the United Methodist Church.
Stained glass at St John the Baptist's Anglican Ch...
English: Christ United Methodist Church in Rochest...
English: Hartzell Memorial United Methodist Church...United Methodism is a Christian religion. It is similar to other Protestant denominations, in that both confirm their beliefs through the sacraments of baptism and communion. Today, United Methodist membership stands at nearly ten million worldwide, more than one million from outside of the United States.
Specifically, United Methodists believe the following things. They believe in one true God. The Trinity, which is the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, are all ways God reveals himself (Campbell 41). "I believe in God the Father Almighty...And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord...I believe in the Holy Spirit..." (The Apostle's Creed). They believe Jesus is Savior, Mediator, Friend, and Judge. The Holy Spirit is present as a sense of guidance in everyday life. Jesus' death on the cross was a sacrifice for his people, which made it possible for forgiveness of sins. Sin is a state of imperfection with...