Introduction
Methodism is one of the currents of Protestantism that originated in the 18th century within the Anglican Church, the founder of which is John Wesley. Methodism’s supporters are distinguished by perseverance and method in studying the Bible and observing its prescriptions; the basis of the creed is the Anglican creed, cult, and organization. The direction has its norms, standards, dogmas, principles, and concepts, which are transmitted and distributed “from hand to hand” in order “to be true to its divinely appointed mission” (The Methodist Church, 2021). The Methodist Doctrinal Heritage is a unique and inimitable human heritage, erected properly for the dissemination of biblical holiness and evangelical faith.
Understanding the Concept
Definition
The Methodist Doctrinal Heritage expresses faith in the Almighty, embodied in Jesus Christ, which is necessary for the salvation of the human body, soul, and spirit. As practice shows, the heritage includes various liturgical forms, ranging from the so-called high forms inherited from the Anglican Church, and ending with the simple worship characteristic of Protestantism, which does not recognize liturgical rites. It properly focuses on understanding God and His love in Christ during the crisis of human existence. It is known for sure that the “ancient message” that has come down to modern times carries teachings that continue to inspire believers to this day in an attempt to convey and spread the saving Gospel to the world according to its needs and aspirations. As a rule, the concepts outlined in the teaching, such as personal conversion and salvation, always imply a desire for missionary work and service to the world. Biblical holiness entails personal piety, and the love of God always implies good relations with neighbors and the pursuit of justice.
Historical Account and Story Line
In fact, the Methodist Doctrinal Heritage has deep roots that “sprouted” in the bosom of the Anglican Church, separating at the end of the XVIII century. At a certain period, John Wesley believed that Methodists can be called people who strictly follow the Holy Scriptures and live according to the method that the Lord approved in the Bible (What united Methodists believe, n.d.). Currently, Methodists identify their teaching with the Arminian concept of free will, which is bestowed by sanctifying grace.
A unique feature of Methodism, especially among American communities, is the time when intensified charitable activities among the needy are emphasized. Another feature of the spiritual practice of Methodism is the moment during which, on one of the appropriate Sundays, Methodists annually renew a personal covenant with God. During this practice, a service compiled by John Wesley is used called the “Prayer of the Covenant.”
The theology of the sacraments and liturgy in Methodism follows the trend of historical interpretation and teaching of the Anglican Church, which is primarily because the founder John Wesley and his younger brother Charles Wesley were Anglican clergymen. In addition, Methodists recognize only two sacraments: Baptism and the Eucharist. Without defining how transubstantiation takes place, they believe that they accept the Body and Blood of Christ, who gives redemption in Holy Communion (The articles of religion of the Methodist church, 2019). Nevertheless, there are also numerous other means of grace that are bestowed in a sacramental way.
Reflection
In my opinion, the Methodist doctrinal heritage has a rich history and glorious traditions. I think that it is a legacy that deserves recognition and respect for the formation of mutual understanding between people and the creation of a better life. The teachings of the evangelical faith presented in Methodist teaching were originally founded and continue to follow divine revelation as the highest rules of faith and practice (The Methodist Church, 2021). It seems to me that the Methodist Doctrinal Heritage fills life with meaning, and answers the question of what a person lives for, and what they strive for. In other words, it allows one to register an individual’s life in eternity and makes it significant for the universe as a whole. Following the experience of the predecessors gives some attempt to believe that the life of each human is significant for the fate of the entire universe.
Contribution as a Lay Pastor
By trying on the role of a Lay Pastor, I would contribute to Methodist Heritage Month in my Circuit in the following way. Thus, I will bring a special diversity to the celebration of Heritage Month through the glorification of other peoples, races, nationalities, and cultures. For example, in this case, I may focus on encouraging parishioners to come to church in various traditional costumes, symbolizing their bright personality and nature. Moreover, I would have a general conversation with several participants. Therefore, this would allow us to discuss and identify the positive aspects of our joint work and to note the shortcomings that could be eliminated within a month. In fact, it is necessary to take steps that will give an impetus to build more positive relationships with other people and make our congregation more hospitable to them. Consequently, these procedures will allow the followers of the Methodist Church to get to know and understand each other better, relying on completely different experiences, customs, values, traditions, and languages (How may united Methodists observe heritage months?, n.d.). In other words, such processes will allow achieving recognition, respect, and mutual understanding between people.
Conclusion
It should be stated that the Methodist doctrinal heritage is a legacy professing the principle of the universal priesthood. It teaches that some of the believers are called and ordained to perform spiritual duties — to preach the gospel, and perform the sacraments and spiritual guidance. In my opinion, the experience of the Methodist predecessors gives certain answers to the questions that appear whenever studying the world and comprehending the great mystery. With the help of heritage, a person’s life is filled with meaning, and his further path is illuminated. Moreover, as a Lay Pastor, I would spend Months of Methodist Heritage based on trends of diversity and diversification, taking into account cultural diversity and the importance of all races and nations.
Bibliography
How may united Methodists observe heritage months?. (n.d.). The United Methodist Church.
The articles of religion of the Methodist church. (2019). The United Methodist Church.
The Methodist Church. (2021). The constitutional practice and discipline of the Methodist church: Volume 2. Order of The Methodist Conference.
What united Methodists believe. (n.d.). Queen’s Chapel UMC.