John Wesley in Georgia

Summary

The video captures a discussion with Pastor Ian Hendry at Trinity Methodist Church in Savannah, Georgia, exploring John Wesley's transformative journey to America in 1735. The conversation highlights Wesley's encounters with the Moravians during his voyage, his challenges in Savannah, and his efforts to build the Anglican community. Wesley's struggles, particularly his failure to convert Native Americans, are examined. The history of Methodism in Savannah, the founding of Trinity Church, and its significance as part of Wesley's legacy are also discussed, offering insights into the enduring impact of Wesley's mission.

Takeaways

• ⛪ John Wesley's journey to Savannah, Georgia, aboard the Simmons in 1735 was transformative due to his encounter with the faith of the Moravians during a storm.
• 🌊 Upon arriving in Savannah, Wesley was ordained and began working with the Anglican community, although he found them lacking in discipline.
• 😔 Wesley struggled with his own crisis of faith while in Savannah and was disappointed by his inability to convert Native Americans to Christianity.
• 🗣️ Wesley's outspoken views on issues like slavery and alcohol immediately put him at odds with Savannah's leadership and economic interests.
• 📖 Wesley's time in Savannah laid some groundwork for the Methodist movement, although his efforts were not successful at the time.
• 💒 Methodism did not establish itself in Savannah until much later, with the first Methodist church forming in 1812, decades after Wesley's departure.
• 🏛️ Trinity Methodist Church, established in 1848, was built on land purchased from the Telfair family and has historical significance tied to Wesley.
• 🔥 In 1991, a fire destroyed the educational building at Trinity Church, marking a difficult period in the church's history, but it led to a revitalization process.
• 🏙️ The decision to stay in Savannah and maintain a presence on Telfair Square reflects Trinity’s commitment to its historical roots and community.
• 📜 Trinity Methodist Church has become a significant part of the Wesley Shrine, commemorating John Wesley's impact on Savannah and American Methodism.

Q & A

What significant event impacted John Wesley during his voyage to Savannah on the ship Simmons?

John Wesley had a transformative experience during the voyage to Savannah when he encountered Moravians who remained calm and faithful during a storm. Their steadfast faith made a strong impression on him.

Where did John Wesley first land when he arrived in Georgia?

John Wesley first landed on Cockspur Island (known then as Peepers Island by the British) before the ship continued to the Savannah River.

What was John Wesley's role upon arriving in Savannah?

John Wesley was the director of the Anglican community in Savannah, leading the local congregation and attempting to bring about more discipline in their faith practices.

Why did John Wesley consider his time in Savannah a failure?

John Wesley considered his time in Savannah a failure because he was unable to make significant headway in converting Native Americans to Christianity, and he faced opposition from the local community and leadership.

What were two key issues that caused John Wesley to fall out of favor with Savannah's leadership?

John Wesley opposed both the presence of slavery and alcohol in Savannah, which put him at odds with the local economic leadership and many of the settlers.

Did John Wesley's work in Savannah have a lasting impact on the community?

Most of John Wesley’s efforts in Savannah did not survive after his departure. The Methodist societies he established in England after his return were different from the work he did in Savannah.

When was the first Methodist church established in Savannah, and what was it called?

The first Methodist church in Savannah was established in 1812, long after Wesley's time in the city. It was named Wesley’s Chapel in his honor.

How did Trinity Methodist Church in Savannah come to be established?

Trinity Methodist Church was established after the original Methodist congregation outgrew its space. In 1848, the congregation bought land from the Telfair family in what is now Telfair Square and completed construction in 1850.

How did the fire in 1991 impact Trinity Methodist Church?

The 1991 fire, likely caused by arson, destroyed the educational building of Trinity Methodist Church and led to the death of a firefighter. The congregation was displaced for nearly two years as the church was rebuilt.

What message does Trinity Methodist Church want visitors to take away from their history?

Trinity Methodist Church emphasizes resilience and faith. A banner during the church’s restoration in 2005 read: 'Tested by war, plague, and fire. Proven through time,' symbolizing the church’s enduring faith and survival through adversity.