About

Early Methodism was an Anglican renewal movement that was founded by John and Charles Wesley who were both priests in the Church of England.  It was the Wesley’s Anglican heritage that helped fuel the deep spirituality and rapids growth of the early Methodist revival. Wesley said, “I believe there is no Liturgy in the world, either in ancient or modern language, which breathes more of a solid, scriptural, rational piety than the Common Prayer of the Church of England.” Aldergate represents a place of renewal and revival where John Wesley felt his heart “strangely warmed.” The same Spirit of renewal is burning in the church today.

Over the years, there have been many attempts to reunite Methodists and Anglicans. In 1972 a full-union proposal was approved by Methodists, only to fail to achieve a two-thirds majority in the Church of England’s General Synod. Archbishop Michael Ramsey said it was “the saddest day in my life.”

So why should Anglicanism be a home for Wesleyans and Methodists? The reason is simple: Both the Anglicans and Methodists share a common heritage in the Anglican tradition. Today the Spirit is stirring the hearts of orthodox Methodists once again to look back to the roots of their founding fathers by embracing the Anglican tradition.

Aldersgate Mission Society (AMS) seeks to recapture the spirit of early Methodism. We are a dispersed community of clergy and laity who are committed to a rule of life that is inspired by the Wesleyan way of spiritual formation and mission. In this spirit of unity, AMS seeks to provide a place for Methodist clergy and churches who are seeking to join the Anglican Church in North America.

Our Episcopal oversight comes from the Rt. Rev. Clark Lowenfield, Bishop of the Diocese of the Western Gulf Coast and our Canon/Prior is Rev. Dr. Winfield Bevins.

AMS Rule of Life

We share a rule of life that binds us together.

  • Worship – We are committed to the liturgy and sacraments of the church
  • Prayer – We are committed to practicing the Daily Office
  • Community – We are committed to living in fellowship as a dispersed community
  • Formation – We are committed to practicing the means of grace
  • Discipleship – We are committed to regular examination of the heart, confession, and accountability in small groups
  • Mission – We are committed to joining in God’s mission to reach North America

If you are interested in learning more about AMS contact us today!