God’s call on Methodism – Rev. Dr. Cliff Fletcher – Presiding Bishop, Free Methodist Church, Canada.

Methodism was a powerful movement, which married personal sanctification with social justice – in fact, in Wesley’s mind, they were not separable.

Holiness is about character and justice. At some point, however, Methodism in North America became an institution (denomination).

Institutionalization is not always a negative thing, but in this case, it was. In North America, we taught holiness, but owned slaves, wealthy people owned pews nearest the heaters, members participated in secret societies and the Holy Spirit increasingly became less invited in meetings and fellowship (this happens when movements become something less).

A great question is why do movements become denominations/institutions?

I see in Wesleyan theology the opportunity for the Church to once again be a powerful movement: holy people love Jesus, are empowered by Holy Spirit, and join Him in His mission in the world.

Rev. Dr. Cliff Fletcher

Presiding Bishop, Free Methodist Church, Canada