A Short History Of The Methodists... - Media Sabda Org

Mr. George Whitefield came first to America in May 1738; he came over a second time in 1739,
and then visited New England in 1740 afterwards he returned to England, and parted with Messrs.
Wesleys in 1741.
In 1742, the societies having greatly increased, they were divided into classes, each class
consisting of about twelve persons, who were committed to the care of one person styled the Leader.
-- Mr. Wesley observes on this occasion as follows:
"Feb. 15, 1742 -- Many of us were met together in Bristol, to consult on a proper method of
paying the public debt contracted by building; and it was agreed, 1. That every member of the society
that was able, should contribute a penny a week -- 2. That the whole society should be divided into
little companies or classes, of about twelve in each class -- 3. That one person in each class should
receive the contribution of the rest. Thus began, says he, that excellent institution, merely upon a
temporal account, from which we have reaped so many spiritual blessings: we soon fixed the same
rule in all our societies."
April 9, 1742 The first watch-night was held in London. It is said this custom began first at
Kingswood by the colliers there, who, before their conversion, used to spend every Saturday night
at the Ale-house. After they were taught better, they spent that night in prayer. Mr. Wesley hearing
of it, ordered it first to be once a month, at the full of the Moon; then once a quarter, and then
recommended it to all his societies.
Mr. Wesley says of it, "I was informed, that several persons in Kingswood frequently met
together, at the school, and (when they could spare the time) spent the greater part of the night in
prayer and praise and thanksgiving. Some advised me to put an end to this; but upon weighing the
thing thoroughly, and comparing it with the practice of the ancient Christians, I could see no cause
to forbid it. Rather, I believed, it might be made of more general use. So I sent them word, 'I
designed to watch with them on the Friday nearest the full of the moon, that we might have light
thither and back again.' I gave public notice of this the Sunday before, and withal, that I intended to
preach, desiring they, and they only, would meet me there, who could do it without prejudice to their
business or families. On Friday abundance of people came. I began preaching between eight and
nine, and we continued till a little beyond midnight, singing, praying and praising God."
May 26, 1742 -- Mr. Wesley visited Birstal, in the county of York, where he met with John
Nelson, a Laypreacher, who was instrumental in turning many of his neighbors from darkness to
light. After some time Mr. Nelson, who heartily joined Mr. Wesley in his work, published a journal
of his travels and Christian experience, which has been rendered a blessing to thousands, and is still
in circulation among the Methodists in the United States.
In the year 1744, June 25, the first conference was held in London. Mr. Wesley invited the persons
who attended, and also presided among them. There were six clergymen, and four travelling
preachers present. The names of the clergymen were, John Wesley, Charles Wesley, John Hodges,
Henry Piers, Samuel Taylor, and John Meriton. The names of the preachers were, Thomas Maxfield,
John Downs, Thomas Richards, and John Burnett. From this time the conference met every year