Lessons
from Marriages of Women Wesleyan Leaders
Odilon
Massolar Chaves
Copyright © 2026, Odilon Massolar Chaves
All rights reserved to the author.
It is allowed to read, copy and share for free.
Article 184 of the Penal Code and Law 96710 of February 19, 1998.
Books published in the Wesleyan Digital Library: 840
Books published by the author: 879
Cover: https://hammondharwoodhouse.org/18th-century-marriage/
Wedding
scene from Ramsay, The Gentle Shepherd, Act V, Printed for G. Reid and Co.,
1798
From the Lewis Walpole Library, Yale University
Odilon Massolar Chaves is a
retired Methodist pastor, with a doctorate in Theology and History from the
Methodist University of São Paulo.
Son of Rev. Adherico
Ribeiro Chaves and Roza Massolar Chaves.
He is married to RoseMary.
He has two daughters:
Liliana and Luciana.
His thesis dealt with the
Methodist revival in England in the eighteenth century and its contribution as
a paradigm for our days.
============================
Table of
Contents
· Introduction
· Mary
Bosanquet's Ministry and Happy Marriage
· Mary
Bishop, educator, marriage and abandonment of Methodism
· Peggy
Dale's Weddings and Ministry
· Jane
Hilton's marriage integrated her husband into the Methodist circle
· Abandonment
in marriage and blessed ministry of Sarah Crosby
· Happy
Marriages of Sisters Philly and Betsy Briggs
· Ann
Bolton, a standard of true femininity and her late marriage
· Wesley's
mentorship, Rebecca Yeoman's marriage and its instability
· Lady
Darcy Maxwell, very early widowhood and discipleship of Wesley
============================
Introduction
"Lessons from
Marriages of Women Leaders of the Wesleyan Movement" is a 32-page book
about the ministry and marriages of Methodist leaders.
Wesley performed
discipleship with all of them, but not all of them were happy in their
marriages.
It is true that two had
problems in their marriage and separated before becoming associated with
Methodism. Wesley had no prejudice and they became leaders. One of them became
the first female preacher in Methodism.
Three of these women
approached here were widowed. One of them became a widow very early, at the age
of 19.
Another
married very late and was married only 4 years, but "even after being
widowed in 1785, she continued to lead the Methodist society and preach
regularly for more than thirty years."[1]
Another leader also married
very late, after Wesley's death. Years before her final marriage, she intended
to marry another suitor, but was dissuaded by Wesley who feared that the
marriage would hinder her total devotion to faith and religious leadership. She
married at the age of 49 to a merchant.
Another leader married a
widower with the encouragement of Wesley himself. Together, the couple traveled
to evangelize in Ireland where her work as a spiritual leader helped bring
thousands of converts to Methodism.
And an educator Wesley
admired married a Quaker, left Methodism, and became a leader with her husband.
Wesley confessed his
initial concern upon learning that she had married, as he feared that her
usefulness as an unmarried woman would be compromised.[2]But
Wesley did not blame her, on the contrary, he encouraged her to be happy in her
marriage.
Another Methodist who had
emotional and spiritual instability continued to do so after her marriage.
After the wedding, Wesley advised her to return to God's ways.
Two
sisters who were discipled by Wesley were very happily married. They married
very well and remained steadfast. One of the husbands became a prosperous
banker, a member of the British Parliament, and one of the leading laymen and
financiers of Methodism in his region. He also actively worked alongside
William Wilberforce in the campaign for the abolition of slavery."[3]
Another leader integrated
her husband into Methodism. Wesley always called her husband
"brother." But when she got married, Wesley amicably warned her
that love for her husband would not cause her to forget God or slow down her
spiritual pace.
None of these marriages
were officiated by Wesley, as they were held in the Anglican Church, as
determined by law.
Wesley's famous guidance
not to seek happiness in marriage is here seen very clearly.
Stories published here that
serve as a reflection for pastors and pastors today.
The Author
============================
Mary
Bosanquet's Ministry and Happy Marriage
"Mary
Bosanquet Fletcher(1739-1815) was one of the most
important pioneers of the Methodist movement in the eighteenth century.John
Wesley—the leader and founder of Methodism—to recognize and support theministry
and the preaching of women".[4]
She was
one of the first preachers. John Wesley said that her preaching was "light
and fire."[5]
Born
into a wealthy family in England, she converted to Methodism, abandoned
comfort, opened an orphanage and a school[6]for
underprivileged children in Yorkshire.
Bosanquet
married the Anglican clergyman John Fletcher, who was a friend of
Wesley's.
"Even
after she was widowed in 1785, she continued to lead the Methodist society and
preach regularly for more than thirty years."[7]
Wesley
had a high opinion of Mary Bosanquet. On March 23, 1775, he wrote to Betsy and
said, "MY DEAR BETSY,-- I am glad you had the opportunity to spend time in
Leeds and with Miss Betsy. Bosanquet. This, I have no doubt, has been a blessed
means of increasing his spiritual strength."[8]
On
February 11, 1775, Wesley wrote to Mary Bishop and said, "There is much
good in Miss Bosanquet; and you can do her good, for she loves and will bear to
be honest."[9]
In 1781, Wesley shows that
he considered Bosanquet's school to be of excellence. He said: "I saw
another Christian school at Leytonstone, under the care of Miss Leytonstone.
Bosanquet. I do not remember having discovered any defect in either the first
or the second.[10]
Wesley considered the
students of the school as children. Revealing the excellence of Bosanquet's
teaching, Wesley said, "I want your children (Students) be educated
just like those of Miss Helena. Bosanquet".[11]
Bosanquet had a high
opinion of her husband. In 1774, Wesley wrote: "When John Fletcher urged
Mary Bosanquet [They married in 1781], she said (asking my advice on this): 'If
I change my situation, it must be with one who can not only love, but also deep
reverence and esteem: one who is qualified to be my guide; one who is eminent
not only in grace, but also in understanding."[12]
Who was John Fletcher
John Fletcher was rector of
Madeley in Shropshire. He became
vicar in 1760.
Fletcher
was known in Britain for his piety and generosity. When asked if he had any
needs, he replied, "... I want nothing but more grace."[13]
In 1751,
Fletcher became acquainted with Wesley, Methodism, and "began to work withJohn
Wesley, becoming a key interpreter of theTheologyWesleyan
in the eighteenth century and one of the first great theologians of
Methodism".[14]
John
Fletcher was very useful to Wesley and to Methodism. He was
"very useful in the struggle he had to sustain to defend the Arminian
point of view before his Calvinist opponents. In this way, Methodism produced a
great theologian without him actually writing a treatise on theology."[15]
Wesley saw in Fletcher the
person capable of replacing him. In a letter to John Fletcher in January 1773,
Wesley quoted what someone had said and said: 'When Mr. Wesley falls, it will
all end!' And so it will certainly be, unless, before God calls him here,
someone is found to stand in his place."[16]
Fletcher married Methodist leader Mary Bosanquet.
After
Fletcher's death, Maria continued her husband's work in the parish. This
she did for the next thirty years. She died in the parish and was buried
in the same grave as her husband in December 1815.[17]
Maria
Bosanquet was known as "Mother in Israel," a Methodist term of honor,
for her work in spreading the religion throughout England.[18]
Fletcher
fell ill. "By the end of 1785, Fletcher's health had deteriorated. He
caught a cold and was very weak. He had a very high fever and very little
energy. His voice grew weaker and weaker. His body was covered with stains. And
then, during the night of Sunday, August 14, 1785, John William Fletcher died
at the age of fifty-six. The funeral took place three days later and was
conducted by an old friend, the Reverend Hatton."[19]
On
August 14, 1815, she wrote: "Thirty years on this day I drank the bitter
cup and closed the eyes of my beloved husband, and now I myself am dying, Lord,
prepare me, I feel death very near. I wait, and I desire to fly to the bosom of
my God!".[20]
Mary
Bishop, educator, marriage and abandonment of Methodism
Mary Bishop (1741–1819) was
an important educator, leader, and Methodist, and was considered by Wesley to
be a true reference in education.
Mary was born in Bath,
Somerset (England) and was baptized as a child "on February 20, 1741, the
daughter of John and Martha Bishop. Around 1760, she established and ran a
boarding school in the Vineyards neighborhood of Bath.[21]
Mary Bishop was initially
associated with Calvinist Countess Lady Huntingdon, but Mary went to the
Methodist movement after disagreements with the Countess.[22]
She joined the Methodist
society in Avon Street in late 1769, and soon assumed leadership of the group.[23]
Mary Bishop ran a
prestigious school in Bath, England, and ran the place under the principles of
"early Christian simplicity".
The school became "a
model that Wesley used to evaluate other Methodist schools, having been
declared by him to be a school 'after my own heart'. They kept a constant
correspondence where he guided her and praised her work in the formation of the
children."[24]
"After a serious
illness in 1777 which led her to close her school and move temporarily to
Frome, she moved to Keynsham in 1781 and founded a boarding school, further
integrating herself into Methodist evangelical circles near Bristol."[25]
Mary Bishop
and Wesley maintained frequent correspondence from 1769 to 1784.
"In August 1789, Mary
Bishop married Thomas Mills (1735–1820), a widowed Quaker bookseller in
Bristol. Mary aligned herself with the Quakers and the couple were buried
together at the Quaker Redcliff Pit Cemetery in Bristol".[26]
When Mary married, Wesley
did not reproach her, but sought counsel "He eased any potential guilt she
felt by assuring her that it was not a sin to marry a 'child of God.' He
encouraged her to pray for her husband that he would grow in faith and be perfected
in love.
Wesley actively checked his
local position and support system, asking specifically about his association
with early Methodists such as Mr. and Mrs. Adam Clarke and Miss S.
Lempriere".[27]
Some important points of
Wesley's mentoring for Mary Bishop:
"Spiritual Mentoring
and "Simple Faith": Wesley often warned Mary
against overthinking, overreasoning, and "useless reflections on
herself." He constantly encouraged her to put aside theological anxieties
and adopt a childish, uncorrupted faith.
Philosophy and Methods of
Education: As a teacher, Mary often sought Wesley's advice on how to raise and
teach children. He famously advised her not to use the Church's standard
Catechism for young children, calling it 'totally inappropriate for children of
six or seven years old,' recommending short, simplified instructions.
Opposition to Worldly
Fashions: Wesley strongly advocated 'primitive simplicity' in the classroom. He
explicitly told Maria not to let her students dress or behave according to the
changing fashions of the world, warning that this would erode the spiritual
focus of the school.
Grammar and Intellect: Wesley
deeply respected Mary's mind. In an iconic letter from 1773, he confidently
told her, "In two or three hours I could teach you so much grammar that
you could follow without difficulty," emphasizing that intellectual
pursuit must always be accompanied by a one-eyed devotion to God.
Anti-Calvinist polemics: Mary's
location in Bath placed her right in the middle of theological debates between
Wesley's Arminian Methodists and Calvinist Methodists (associated with Lady
Huntingdon and Rowland Hill). Wesley used his letters to Mary to criticize
Calvinism, famously noting that"You must not think that anything will
convince a warm Calvinist—no, not an angel coming down from heaven."[28]
Mary Bishop's Wedding
"In 1789, a
particularly well-documented letter from Wesley to Bishop addresses her recent
marriage, offering him a unique platform to advise her.
John Wesley sent his
correspondence to her from Dublin on 7 April 1789. The main themes of his letter
include:
Marriage Lawyer:Wesley confessed his initial concern upon learning that she had married,
as he feared that her usefulness as an unmarried woman would be compromised.[29]
But Wesley did not blame
her, on the contrary, he encouraged her to be happy in her marriage.
"The influential Methodist Mary Bishop (1741–1819) married the
widowed Quaker bookseller Thomas Mills (1735–1820).
The wedding took place in August 1789, in the city of Bristol,
England".
After the wedding...
"Mary Bishop formally
aligned herself with the Quakers, moving away from the leadership and strict
Methodist fellowship of which she was a part.
Impact on female leadership: Mary
Bishop was known for managing a school focused on the education and spiritual
formation of women in Bath and Bristol. Her marriage and subsequent religious
transition marked the end of her direct role as one of the leading
intellectuals in Wesley's inner circle.
Union to the end: The
couple remained together until the end of their lives. Mary died in 1819 and
Thomas the following year. Both were buried together in the Quaker cemetery ofRedcliff
Pit, located in Bristol".[30]
Peggy
Dale's Weddings and Ministry
Her name
was Margaret, called by Wesley "Peggy" Dale (1745–1777).
Peggy
was born in Durham, England, and raised with her sisters by her uncles (the
Lewen family) after the deaths of her father and mother.
"Peggy
"Dale" and her sisters Mary and Ann "were brought up in
Kibblesworth, Durham, England, by their maternal uncles,Thomas and Sarah
(Lawrence) Lewen. After the death of their father (Edward Dale) in 1755 and
the passing of their mother (Eleanor) a short time earlier, the Lewens took
responsibility for the orphans."[31]
The
Lewen family was "deeply involved and active in the Methodist movement.
They helped consolidate the work of Methodism in the region and offered
continued support to Wesley and his congregations."[32]
In 1773,
Peggy was married on March 4 to "Edward Avison, an organist. John Wesley
met her in 1765 and they maintained a lasting friendship."[33]
Edward
Avison (1747–1776) "was an English organist and an active figure in the
early twentieth century."Methodist Movementin Newcastle, known
historically for his marriage to Margaret "Peggy" Dale.[34]
Edward
was the eldest son of Charles Avison, who was one of the most famous British
composers and music theorists of the seventeenth century.
Edward
Avison "was a respected and deeply religious member of the Methodist
community. He served as atrusteeofMethodist Orphan Housein
Northumberland Street in Newcastle, which functioned as a central hub for the
movement and accommodation for preachers."[35]
Of
Peggy's marriage, Wesley said, "I know where Peggy Dale could have made a
better choice."
"Peggy"
Dale was "the niece of Miss Lewen, a benefactor of Methodism in England,
and became one of the most beloved and favored correspondents of the theologian
John Wesley. Wesley wrote dozens of letters to Peggy beginning in the
mid-1760s, focusing on pastoral counseling, the consolidation of the Christian
faith, and the pursuit of sanctification.[36]
Peggy
Dale was living in Newcastle when Wesley wrote to Samuel Levick on 2 January
1768 and quoted a statement by John Fenwick, who wrote from Newcastle: 'We all
believe that the debt can be paid off in one year. I'm going to give it 25.
Robert Davison will give 25. John Morrison, 25 years old. Miss S. Dales, 50.'
Let us do it with faith, and so it will be done!"[37]
He
stated that Miss Helena Sánchez was a member of the S Dales would give 50,
double and the highest amount.
Peggy
Dale helped "sustain the spiritual revival led by the Wesley brothers in
the north of England, Newcastle upon Tyne area. She was active in advising,
encouraging other members, and discussing theology directly with the Methodist
leader."[38]
His
parents supported Wesley's ministry. Jane became a Methodist and joined the
Methodist society in 1764.
At times
when (Jane) Mrs. Barton faced crises, Wesley wrote to comfort her, reminding
her that "the Lord disciplines whom he loves."
After
their marriage in 1769, Wesley continued to encourage Jane to lead and visit
the neighbors.
Jane was
a class leader. In 1769, Wesley told him, "I understand that you ought
especially to encourage believers to surrender all to God, and to look forward
to the power by which they will be enabled to do so every day and every
moment."[39]
Jane was
dedicated. In 1770, Wesley told him, "And see that you try so hard to
comfort the mental, to support the weak, to confirm the vacillations, and to
recover those who are out of the way."[40]
In 1774,
Wesley wrote to him and said, "It is exceedingly certain that God has
given you the second blessing, appropriately named."[41]
The
doctrine of the second blessing or perfection was a goal of Wesley's. Writing
to Samuel Bardsley on April 3, 1772, Wesley spoke of the need to seek the
second blessing: "Press all believers to follow on to perfection. Insist
everywhere that the second blessing be received in an instant, and now
receivable, by simple faith."[42]
That
same year, writing to JaneSalkeld,Wesley
said, "Urge all the little ones who believe to hurry up and not delay the
moment of receiving the second blessing."[43]
Jane
Hilton's marriage integrated her husband into the Methodist circle
Jane Hilton (1747–1825) was
baptised as a child on 28 February 1747, at the Anglican Church in Beverley,
Yorkshire. She was the daughter of Francis and Jane Hilton.
Jane lived in the Beverley
area and then in Hull, England.
"She married William
Barton inMarch 1769, remaining married to
him throughout the period in which she corresponded with Wesley (her last known
letter to her was in 1788)".[44]
Initially, Wesley called
her Jane Hilton. After she married in 1769, she called him Mrs. Barton.
"TheJohn Wesley's
letters to Mrs. Barton(whose maiden name wasJane Hilton) form one of
the most famous and rich pastoral collections of the founder of Methodism. In
all, there are32 letters preserveddirected at her. They reveal Wesley's
pastoral heart and serve as a practical guide to spirituality."[45]
She was
a very active Methodist who led small prayer and discipleship groups.
Your
wedding
"When Jane married Mr.
Barton, Wesley sent letters warning her amicably that love for her husband
should not cause her to forget God or slow down her spiritual pace."[46]
"Her marriage to
William Barton integrated the family into the circle of followers of the
Reverend John Wesley (founder of Methodism), who traveled around England
and wrote letters to the Barton family, addressed specifically to Jane. William
is often referred to in the religious and historical texts of the time as
"Brother Barton".
Key aspects about the
couple's life and connection include:
- Wedding: Held in 1769, in the town of
Beverley, in the Yorkshire region.
- Religious Circle: They maintained
friendship and intense correspondence with figures from the beginning of
British Methodism. The famous theologian John Wesley sent several letters
addressed to Jane, where he also conveyed love and blessings to Brother
William Barton.
- Timeline:Jane Hilton was born on1747and
died in1825”.[47]
Hester Rogers' ministry and marriage to a widower
Hester
Rogers (1756 -1794) was a British Methodist considered by Wesley as a model of
holiness.
Hester Ann Roe"She
was one of the most influential women at the beginning of theMethodist
Movementand one of the closest friends and correspondents of its founder,
John Wesley."[48]
She was
born in Macclesfield, Cheshire, England.
Ann
Hester "had a strict but caring upbringing. It was confirmed in 1769 by
theBishop of Chester,Edmund Keene, in the
Church of England. It dated her conversion to Methodism to November 11, 1774,
after hearingSamuel Bardsleypreach. He
was one of John Wesley's Methodist itinerant preachers. She isAnn Cutlerwere
among the first Methodist evangelists."[49]
Ann
Hester began a lifelong correspondence with Wesley after
meeting him in 1776.
She was
a Methodist class leader and one of her students was Agnes Bulmer.
Hester
"visited the sick. Five years later, he met another Methodist preacher
named James Rogers and his wife Ann. His wife died in February 1784 after
childbirth, and in accordance with Ann's wishes, James married Hester the
following August. Both then went to evangelize in Ireland."[50]
In 1783,
Wesley referred to her as "that blessed creature Hetty Roe."[51]
In 1785,
Wesley wrote of his ability: "... since Hetty Rogers had great capacity to
fill her place there".[52]
Hester
Ann Roe wrote of Wesley, in her 1783 Journal: "Sunday, April 6. "I
have received a letter from dear Mr. Wesley, who tells me that he is hurrying
to Holyhead on his way to Dublin, and that he will be in Newcastle on
Tuesday." She says she met him at Lane End on Tuesday and heard him
preach; then took her in his carriage to Newcastle-under-Lyme, where he
preached from 'One thing is necessary.' She heard it again the next morning at
five."
Marriage: In
1784, with Wesley's own encouragement, she married James Rogers, a prominent
Methodist itinerant preacher."[53]
Some details about James
Rogers
James met Hester in the
town of Macclesfield in 1782, when he was still married to his first wife, Ann,
who was a close friend of Hester's.
The Marriage: After Ann's
death due to complications in childbirth in February 1784, and following a wish
expressed by the deceased herself, James and Hester were married in August of
the same year, with the encouragement of John Wesley himself.
Ministry Partnership:
Together, the couple traveled to evangelize in Ireland (mostly in Dublin),
where Hester's role as a spiritual leader helped bring thousands of converts to
Methodism.
"His
most famous work is the bookThe Experience of Hester Ann Rogers(The
Experience of Hester Ann Rogers). The text was published by Wesley and has
remained one of the most widely read and influential literary works of
Methodism for more than a century.[54]
Death
She died young, at the age of 38, in Birmingham, in 1794.
She
"died inBirminghamin 1794.
After his death, a sermon was published entitled "The Character and Death of Mrs.
Hester Ann Rogers", which presents the
life of Hester Rogers asModelfor
Methodist women. The sermon had been given by the bishopThomas CokePosted
onSpitalfieldsand
published with an appendix by her husband. By 1876, it had been turned into a
Methodist treatise."[55]
Abandonment
in marriage and blessed ministry of Sarah Crosby
Sarah Crosby (1729 – 1804)
lived her childhood in Leeds, England.
Crosby became interested in
religion at age 14. This became more accentuated at the age of 17 because she
was afraid of dying and going to hell.
"In 1750, Crosby
married. Little is known about Mr. Crosby, including his first name; similarly,
Sarah Crosby's maiden name is not known – she is always referred to as 'Mrs
Crosby'. The marriage did not last long; Her husband left her on February 2,
1757, after seven years of marriage. It's unclear why the Crosbys broke
up."[56]
Sarah's wedding details
·
"Identity of husband hidden: The baptismal name of the spouse was never
discovered. He is recorded in the biographical archives only as "Mr.
Crosby". As a result, even Sarah's maiden name remains unknown.
· The
final abandonment: In February 1757, Mr. Crosby deserted and
abandoned Sarah permanently. He left her without economic resources,
forcing her to seek her own support.
· Controversial
reasons: The exact reasons for the separation are unknown. Biographers of
the time speculated that her husband might be an alcoholic, unfaithful, or
simply hostile to Sarah's intense religious devotion. Another strand supposes
that he may have introduced John Wesley's writings to her before he left."[57]
Sarah and Methodism
Sarah was prejudiced
against the Methodists, but after "reading some of Wesley's works, she
became interested in the denomination. Crosby was converted to
Methodism on October 29, 1749. Crosby joined the ranks of the members of
theThe Foundery, aMethodist Society, in
October 1750. She began to lead herOwn classesMethodists
in 1752. Shortly after becoming class leader, Crosby had a vision of Jesus
while praying. In his vision, Jesus said: 'Feed my sheep.' Crosby
interpreted this event as God calling her to preach."[58]
In 1763, Saray began
working and living with Mary Bosanquet and Sarah Ryan at their orphanage, The
Cedars, in Leytonstone.
In 1771, after a request
from Mary Bosanquet, Wesley authorized Crosby to preach, something new at the
time.
"Sarah Crosby was one
of the most important and dynamic leaders of the early Methodist movement
founded by John Wesley in the eighteenth century.
Her work has shaped the
female role in religious leadership through the following milestones:
The Beginning and the
Unexpected Call
- Conversion: Born in England in 1729, she converted
to Methodism after hearing John Wesley preach in London in 1749.
- Class Leadership: In 1752, he
began to act as a leader of "classes" (small groups of
disculation and prayer) in the famous chapel The
Foundery.
- The Turning Point
(1761):
Sent to lead a class meeting in Derby that used to have 30 people, she was
faced with an audience of over 200 individuals. Feeling compelled by
necessity, she decided to give a speech and preach to the crowd."[59]
"On
June 13, 1771, Wesley wrote to Crosby with instructions on how to conduct
public meetings, since he could now preach officially. During the 1770s,
Crosby was a preacherItinerant; She
wrote that she had traveled 960 miles in the year 1777
alone. Sometimes she traveled with Wesley. Apparently, Crosby was
quite popular and often spoke to hundreds of people in his
sermons. She even addressed a crowd of 500 to 600 people in the
rain, despite losing her voice and being sore from traveling."[60]
She died at the age of 75
and was buried in Leeds Parish Cemetery in a
grave with her colleagues Sarah Ryan and later Ann Tripp.
Happy
Marriages of Sisters Philly and Betsy Briggs
"Philothea
Briggs(born
1753) was a historical figure linked to the beginning of the Methodist
movement. She is widely remembered in the history of Methodism for having been
the recipient of famous letters and spiritual advice written by the founder of
the movement,John Wesley".[61]
Philly was from a Methodist
family. His father worked with Wesley.
"Early Onset:Philothea
was the daughter of William Briggs, one of Wesley's trustees of books in
London. For this
reason, Wesley had known her since childhood."[62]
William was an active
Methodist. "There are historical records, including a famous letter from
April 1750, where Briggs writes to John Wesley reporting aspects of the faith,
the expansion of the movement, and the spiritual state of the Wesleyan members.[63]
When
Wesley began writing to Philothea Briggs, whom he called "DEAR
PHILLY," she must have been about 16 years old. Wesley also called it
Philadelphia. One of the first letters was in 1769.
Happy marriages
Speaking of William, father
of Philly and Betsy, Wesley said in a letter: "Briggs married his sister
Elizabeth in 1749"[64](sister
of Ted Perronet).
Elizabeth was the daughter
of Vincent Perronet, a vicar who was a close friend and adviser of Wesley.
William's daughters, Betsy
Briggs (Elizabeth) was born in 1751 and Philly was born in 1753.
Later,
Betsy Briggs moved to Hoxton Square and married Peard Dickinson on April 30,
1788: Betsy "was closely acquainted with the leaders of Methodism, and
even received several letters written byJohn Wesley. Later, Betsy
married Rev.Peard Dickinson(an auxiliary clergyman to John Wesley), and
died at Walthamstow in 1822".[65]
In 1781,
Philly married "Thomas Thompson, an influential man ofHull(Yorkshire).
Thomas Thompson became a prosperous banker, a member of the British Parliament,
and one of the leading laymen and financiers of Methodism in his region. He
also actively worked alongside William Wilberforce in the campaign for the
abolition of slavery."[66]
It also
reveals that Wesley's mentorship with Philly and Betsy led them to make good
choices.
Among
the topics covered in the letters to Philly are:
- "Love and Charity: In a 1772
correspondence, he summed up the whole religion in humble and patient
love, citing the commandment to walk in love.
- Religious Gossip: In another
letter from 1772, Wesley firmly addressed "religious gossip,"
describing it as a deep-seated evil that adds hypocrisy to the lack of
charity. He instructed Methodist leaders to combat
this practice."
- Practical advice: In addition to the spiritual life, he
gave very specific advice to the young woman, such as instructions on
posture ("learn to write inclined, without leaning over your
chest") and mental health ("never read or write for too
long").[67]
Wesley also taught him about beware of
"religious gossip."
They are letters that reveal a process of
discipleship that helped Philly in the maturation, sanctification and healing
of the soul.
That was her wish. In 1771, Wesley replied:
"While you want some guidance on the improvement of your mind (...)".
Wesley knew Philothea well. In a letter from
Wesley, in 1774, there are indications that she was overcoming her
difficulties: "Her feelings tended to be too impetuous, and sometimes
unequal too; but nature yields to healing grace."
Wesley recommended reading books: "The four
volumes of Sermons, the Appeals, the Notes, and the Excerpts from the Works of
Mr. Law and Dr. Young may be the best for you now."
But he places the Bible as the ultimate book:
"All the knowledge you want is gathered in a single book—the Bible. When
you understand that, you'll know enough."
Wesley also spoke of Philly's maturation:
"Philly faced such great shocks that it could have shaken some of the most
established souls we have in London."
Ann Bolton, a standard of true femininity and her
late marriage
"Born in June 1743 in England, Ann converted
to Methodism at the age of 19. She took an active leadership role as 'class
leader' from 1777, spiritually guiding other members, and kept a detailed
spiritual diary.
The Friendship with John Wesley
The relationship between Ann and John Wesley is one
of the best-documented examples of eighteenth-century spiritual direction:
- Practical
Counselor: In addition to spiritual advice, Wesley,
who had a keen interest in medicine, often sent her health advice and
treatments for her failing health.
- Publication: Wesley valued Ann's insights so much that he published more than
20 letters written by her in Arminian Magazine.
- Financial Legacy:The deep trust he
placed in her was evident when Wesley left her as a beneficiary in his
will."[68]
Among their correspondence, we see that Wesley saw
in Ann an example. He said to Ann Bolton:
About simplicity
"It
is very pleased to observe that you do not lose your simplicity. You seem not
only to maintain simplicity of spirit (the big deal), but also of feeling and
language."[69]
Perfect standard of true
femininity
"I
don't know what it is in all his spirit and behavior that has always given me
an indescribable pleasure; and when I look at you (you know to whom the glory
is due!), I am often ready to cry out, 'Thou, perfect standard of true
womanhood!'[70]
A flame of sacred love
"I
want you to be a flame of sacred love! I want you to do His will now, as angels
do in heaven! to be all life, all fire, all light in the Lord!"[71]
His words (by the grace of God)
will impart health to the soul
"Iron
sharpens iron, and a man's countenance your friends—not only conversation, but
countenance itself, such as I have often found when I have looked at you. But
much more, his words (by the grace of God) will impart health to the
soul."[72]
Like a watered garden
"God
has been pleased to guide her on the path of suffering from her youth until
now. For now, this is not joyful, but serious; however, it bore peaceful fruit.
Your soul is motionless like a watered garden, like a field that the Lord has
blessed. Hold fast to Him still with full purpose of heart."[73]
Your
wedding
"The MethodistAnn
'Nancy' Bolton, born June 3, 1743 in Witney, England, marriedGeorge
Conibeerein the year1792”.[74]
Wedding
Details
· John Wesley's intervention: Years before her final
marriage, Ann Bolton intended to marry another suitor, but was dissuaded by
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, who feared that marriage would get
in the way of her total devotion to faith and religious leadership.
·Late
marriage: After Wesley's death (which occurred in 1791), she finally married
George Conibeere, a merchant from Gloucester, in 1792, when she had already49
years old".[75]
Wesley's mentorship,
Rebecca Yeoman's marriage and its instability
"Mentoring for Rebecca Yeoman (later Rebecca
Gair) focused on spiritual stability during
major life transitions, specifically marriage and forming a home.
- The
Focus: Spiritual integrity in married life and
accountability.
- The
Approach: Wesley exercised a welcoming and
protective spiritual fatherhood. Knowing the challenges of getting married
within the Methodist movement — keeping the vows of dedication to God
without neglecting the rules of the community — he asked her to "open
her whole heart to him" and share in complete simplicity every trial
or manifestation of grace she experienced.
- The Discipleship Line"Practical
guidance on mutual submission, caution against spiritual discouragement
after marriage, and referral of trusted local mentors (such as Wesley's
itinerant preachers) to support her closely."[76]
Your wedding
- "The wedding of Methodist Rebecca
Yeoman (who after marriage became Rebecca Gair) took place on September
20, 1772 at St. Andrew's Church in Newcastle, England. She married Robert
Gair (1739–1802).
- The Hardwicke Act of 1753: In 18th-century
England, in order for a marriage to be legally valid, the law required
that it be performed in an Anglican parish church (of the Church of
England), under the proclamation of banns (Banns) or license".[77]
Before the wedding, Wesley wrote to her on
February 5, 1772, and spoke of his state of "darkness" as he went:
"MY DEAR SISTER,-- From what I understand, you are now in the state of
wild nature. I advise you to read this sermon in the fourth volume, and examine
yourself through it. If you discover the cause of the heaviness or the
darkness, you're more than halfway to healing."[78]
In 1774,
Wesley tells Mrs. Gair about the possibility of her husband taking a test as a
preacher: "MY DEAR SISTER,-- As for you, the great danger is that you will
abandon the sacred channels of His grace. Just stay in the way. Read, meditate,
pray as you can, though not as you would. Then God will return and lift up
abundantly the light of His countenance upon you. With regard to Brother Gair,
it is not improbable that the impression he feels really comes from God. I
think he can try a test as a local preacher; and probably God would confirm the
word of His messenger"—[79]
In a
letter in 1779, Wesley advises her to return to the ways of God: "... if
you seek it, but you will soon find it. He will return and forgive abundantly.
Who knows how soon. Maybe
today; And why not, at this time?"[80]
Lady Darcy Maxwell, very early
widowhood and discipleship of Wesley
Lady Darcy Maxwell (1742-1810) was an eminently
pious Methodist in Scotland. She belonged to the nobility of Scotland and was
known for her great works of philanthropy.
"She was the youngest
daughter of Thomas Brisbane, of County Ayr, and was born about the year 1742.
In his own home, he received the fundamentals of an education, but later
completed it in the city of Edinburgh. At the age of sixteen, she resided for a
time in London with her uncle and aunt, lord and lady Lothian, to enjoy the
perks of being presented at court. In 1759, shortly after his return from
London, he married Sir Walter Maxwell. This union seemed to open before her a
disconcerting vision of future joys and happiness; but only for two short years
did she realize her bright expectations; At the end of this period, her husband
and son were taken from her, and she was widowed at the age of nineteen. When
the news of her little one's death, within six weeks of her husband's, was
conveyed to her, without any outburst of sorrow or even murmur, she exclaimed,
'I see that God requires all my heart, and he will have it!' 'God brought me to
himself through affliction,' she often said. It was while burdened by these
heavy trials that she became acquainted with the Methodists."[81]
Marriage
and widow
"Born
in Scotland, she married Sir Walter Maxwell. In 1762, at the age of 19, she was
widowed and lost her newborn son within weeks.
"Lady Darcy Maxwell (née Darcy Brisbane)
married Sir Walter Maxwell (of Barons Maxwell Macdonald) in 1760.
The marriage was
short-lived, as Sir Walter died in 1762, leaving her a widow and mother at the
age of 19.[82]
Spiritual
life
Conversion: She interpreted suffering as a
divine call. In 1764, he met John Wesley and formally joined the Methodist
society.
Leadership and Philanthropy: She
became one of the most influential women in Methodism. She has funded and run
free schools for poor children in Edinburgh and Sunday schools in London."[83]
John Wesley's Letters to Lady Maxwell
The letters sent by Wesley to her reveal a tone of
deep respect, but also of direct and straightforward mentoring. Key topics
covered in the correspondence include:
- Pursuit
of Christian Holiness and Perfection:
Wesley often encouraged her to seek the "full assurance of the
faith" and complete sanctification, helping her overcome her natural
shyness to witness to her faith.
- Practical
Leadership Advice: In famous letters,
such as the one dated August 8, 1788, Wesley strongly defends the itinerancy
system of Methodist preachers, explaining that pastors needed to
rotate between cities to keep the movement dynamic, even if the Scottish
people preferred to fix a local preacher.
- Resistance Against Temptations of Status: Because she
belonged to high society, Lady Maxwell lived surrounded by nobles. Wesley
constantly warned her to keep her distance from the vanities of the world.
In February 1767, he wrote one of his most celebrated quotes to her:"Keep
a greater distance from temptation and carefully avoid all opportunities
of evil".[84]
Lady
Maxwell died on 2 July 1810.
In 1822,
Rev John Lancaster published the book "Life of Darcy, Lady Maxwell",
Methodist Vol 1-2".
[1]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[2]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[3]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[4]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[5]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[6]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[7]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[8] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[9] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[10] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1781a/
[11] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1781a/
[12] https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/
[13]https://chamadoparanacoes.wordpress.com/2015/12/16/a-vida-de-john.
[14]https://wikimili.com/en/John_William_Fletcher
[15]Sante Uberto Barbieri.Strange Strain of the Bold,
Chapter 7 – The Paladin of Divine Mercy.
https://arminianismo.wordpress.com/john-fletcher
[16]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[17] https://www.facebook.com/SGMCanada/posts/10157701634016398
[18]https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Bosanquet_Fletcher
[19] https://www.andrewcurtislay.com/blog/richardwhatcoat-n5jra
[20]https://www.methodist.org.uk/about/our-stories/mary-bosanquet-fletcher-paving-the-way-for-female-preachers/
[21]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[22]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[23]https://wesleyworks.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/bios-recurrent-persons.pdf
[24]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[25]https://grokipedia.com//page/thomas_mills_printer
[26]https://wesleyworks.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/bios-recurrent-persons.pdf
[27]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[28]Overview of Google's AI Mode
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[34]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[35]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[36]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[37]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1768/
[38]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[39]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1770/
[40]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[41]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/
[42]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[43]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[44]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[45]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[46]Overview of Google's AI Mode
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[49]Overview of google AI mode
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[51]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1783/
[52]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1785/
[53]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[54]Overview of google AI mode
[55]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hester_Rogers
[56]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Crosby
[57]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[58]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Crosby
[59]Overview of google AI mode
[60]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Crosby
[61]Overview of Google's AI Mode
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[64]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1749/
[65]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[66]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[67]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[68]Overview of Google's AI Mode
[69]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1773/
[70]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[71]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1775/
[72]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1782/
[73]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1789/
[74]Overview of Google's AI Mode
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[78]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1772/
[79]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1774/
[80]https://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-letters-of-john-wesley/wesleys-letters-1779/
[81]https://www.biblicalcyclopedia.com/M/maxwell-lady-darcy.html
[82]Overview of Google iA Mode
[83]https://www.biblicalcyclopedia.com/M/maxwell-lady-darcy.html
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