An evangelical denomination in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition, emphasizing entire sanctification, social holiness, and a commitment to both personal piety and justice.
The Wesleyan Church was formed in 1968 through the merger of the Wesleyan Methodist Connection and the Pilgrim Holiness Church — two denominations with roots in the 19th-century American Holiness movement. Both bodies had separated from Methodism over concerns that the mainline church was abandoning John Wesley's emphasis on entire sanctification and personal holiness.
Theologically, the Wesleyan Church stands in the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition, affirming free will, prevenient grace, and the possibility of entire sanctification — a second definite work of grace in which the believer's heart is cleansed of the inward inclination toward sin. This distinguishes Wesleyan churches from Reformed bodies, which deny entire sanctification, and from Pentecostal bodies, which add Spirit baptism with tongues as a third work of grace.
The Wesleyan Church is also known for its historic commitment to social holiness — the conviction that personal piety must express itself in concern for justice, the poor, and the marginalized. Both predecessor bodies had strong abolitionist roots, and the Wesleyan Methodist Connection was one of the few denominations that refused to admit slaveholders to membership.
The Wesleyan Church is distinguished by its Wesleyan-Arminian theology, its emphasis on entire sanctification, and its historic commitment to social holiness and justice. It differs from United Methodist churches in its more conservative theological culture.
Evangelical and contemporary — praise and worship music, expository preaching, and an emphasis on personal transformation. Wesleyan churches tend to be warm, community-oriented, and mission-focused.
1968, through merger of Wesleyan Methodist Connection (1843) and Pilgrim Holiness Church (1897).
Its abolitionist roots, its emphasis on entire sanctification, and its commitment to both personal holiness and social justice.