Holy Club

The "Holy Club" was an organization at Christ Church, Oxford, set up by brothers John and Charles Wesley in 1729, who later contributed to the formation of the Methodist Church.[1][2][3]

The "Holy Club" started in November of 1729 when John Wesley went to live at Oxford. When he came to reside there, three of his friends along with himself agreed to spend three or four evenings together, every week. Their intention was to "read over" (skim through and discuss) the classics together, which they had already read before privately and to read a book about divinity on Sundays. Charles Wesley, John's brother, was one of the four individuals making up this small cell group (old fashioned cottage meeting). [4]

The actual title of "The Holy Club" was not a name which any of the members came up with, but rather was a title bestowed upon them (most likely as an insult by those trying to mock, ridicule, and make fun of them). [4]

Jeering college students scoffed at these "Methodists" who tried to systematically serve God every hour of the day.[3] The club members set aside time for praying, examining their spiritual lives, studying the Bible, and meeting together.[3] In addition, they took food to poor families, visited lonely people in prison, and taught orphans how to read.[3] Members of the organization celebrated Holy Communion frequently and fasted on Wednesdays and Fridays until 3 P.M.[1][2] Fellows of the Holy Club also studied and discussed the Novum Testamentum Graece as well as the Classics.[1]

Critics of the Holy Club recited a popular ditty:

“ By rule they eat, by rule they drink,

By rule do all things but think.
Accuse the priests of loose behavior.
To get more in the laymen's favor.
Method alone must guide 'em all
When themselves "Methodists" they call.[3]

 ”

This organisation is often said to be the root of the influential Methodist Church.[1]

Notable members

The individuals listed below are notable members of the Holy Club who distinguished themselves later in life.

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 "Holy Club". Christianity Today. Retrieved 2009-05-28.
  2. 1 2 "Holy Club". Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved 2009-05-28.
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 Keysor, Charles W. (1996). Our Methodist Heritage. Good News. p. 12. ISBN 0-912692-27-8.
  4. 1 2 Wesley, John. The Works of John Wesley, Third Edition Complete and Unabridged, Vol. 1 Journals from Oct. 14, 1735 to Nov. 29, 1745; Introductory Letter. Baker Books; Grand Rapids, MI.

External links

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