Methodist

One of the most influential Protestant churches in America, the Methodist Church ranges from huge urban congregations to small rural churches. It began as part of the "pietist" movement in the Church of England but was expanded greatly in the 1800s due to the influence of John and Charles Wesley. The name "Methodist" came from a small group of Oxford students who were very committed to a routine of prayer,fasting, Bible reading and charitable works. The Wesleys and George Whitfield were among this group that became known as Methodists. The Methodist Church structure has the minister for each church appointed by the bishop at Annual Conference but each church elects its own administrative board at the local level. The Methodist Church has always supported the fundamental beliefs of Protestantism and their motto "open hearts, open minds, open doors" reflects their beliefs today - such as the ordination of women.