Methodist History Irish Methodist History
Prof. Randy L. Maddox
Online virtual Zoom lecture
Friday, 18 October 2024, 7.30pm
One of the distinctive (and controversial) features of the Wesleyan revival was John Wesley’s embrace and oversight of a large body of lay-preachers. This sometimes obscures Wesley’s deep concern, throughout his life, to recruit ordained clergy into the ranks of Conference. This lecture will explore the reasons for this latter concern, and the tensions it created—with attention to the prominent role of Irish preachers and clergy in the story.
Randy L. Maddox is the William Kellon Quick Emeritus Professor of Wesleyan and Methodist Studies at the Divinity School, Duke University. His best-known monograph is Responsible Grace: John Wesley’s Practical Theology, and he is the author of numerous essays and articles. Dr. Maddox is General Editor for The Bicentennial Edition of the Works of John Wesley, and unit editor of over half a dozen volumes in the project. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Wesleyan Theological Society, and a Distinguished Service Award from the General Commission on Archives and History of The United Methodist Church. For full vitae and publication list see: https://divinity.duke.edu/faculty/randy-l-maddox
