With over 75 million currently practicing Methodists worldwide, this book treats Methodism as a global religious tradition, examining its rich diversity as well as the core beliefs and attitudes that all Methodists share. It serves as an introduction to the patterns of Methodist life, demonstrating how the religion has developed from British and American roots in different cultural contexts. In addition to the lasting traditions of John and Charles Wesley, An Introduction to Methodism reflects the on-going contribution of Methodism to the ecumenical movement and inter-religious relations. Its analysis includes abundant resources encouraging further study. Kenneth Cracknell is Professor of Theology and Global Studies at Brite Divinity School, Fort Worth, Texas. He has been a theological teacher in Nigeria, a Methodist pastor in Britain, and Director of Interfaith Relations for the British Council of Churches. He has also been a consultant to the World Council of Churches on interfaith issues since 1979 and has visited churches in all parts of the world. He is the author of Toward a New Relationship: Christians and People of Other Faith (Epworth Press, 1986) and Justice, Courtesy and Love: Theologians and Missionaries Encountering Other Religions 1846-1914 (Epworth, 1995). Susan J. White is Alberta H. and Harold L. Lunger Professor of Spiritual Resources and Disciplines at Brite Divinity School, Fort Worth, Texas. She has been a member of the Church of England Liturgical Commission, and the Joint Liturgical Group of Great Britain and Ireland, and consultant for liturgical revision to the Methodist Faith and Order Committee and the Office of Worship of the Board of Discipleship of the United Methodist Church. She is the author of Groundwork of Christian Worship (Epworth, 1997) The Spirit of Worship: The Liturgical Tradition (Orbis Books, 2000) and A History of Women in Christian Worship (Pilgrim Press, 2003)
Industry Reviews
'This book is a comprehensive introduction to the history, theology, sociology, belief and practice of Methodism.' Publishing News '... a splendid contribution ... an impressive blend of comprehensiveness and depth. ... This illuminating and accessible study serves its purpose admirably, but would also enrich the understanding of those already familiar with Methodism.' Methodist Recorder 'This is an engaging narrative, scholarly (with a light touch), and holistic.' Church Times '... it is written in an interesting and lively way with fascinating illustrations of Methodist thought and experience across the years. It deserves to be widely read inside and outside the denomination.' ANVIL 'This book is beautifully and passionately written with a wealth of quotation from hymns, sermons and other Methodist sources. it can especially be commended to colleagues of other traditions seeking to understand what Methodism is.' Epworth Review 'This important and useful book should be found in the libraries of all who would count themselves as scholars of Methodism. With the great range of topics covered, and the authority with which Cracknell and White address their topic, this is a worthy addition to the Cambridge University Press series of introductions to World religious traditions.' Reviews in Religion and Theology 'This is an impressive study, supported by an excellent bibliography.' Theology
