Charles Wesley Tercentenary

2007 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Charles Wesley, one of the founders of Methodism and the one of the most prolific and profound English-language sacred poets. From its roots, the Methodist movement involved singing, and in fact, much of the theology and beliefs of Methodism can be found in its hymns. Charles Wesley was the primary reasonal for this. He wrote literally thousands of hymns, many of which still are a vital part of Christian worship around the world: "Hark! the herald angels sing," "Christ the Lord is risen today," "O for a thousand tongues to sing," and "Love divine, all loves excelling," to name but a few.

Heritage Sunday, one of the Special Sundays officially recognized by The United Methodist Church, will be celebrated on May 20, 2007. Congregations are encouraged to observe this Sunday and celebrate the life and contributions of Charles Wesley. Below you will find resources and information to assist you in planning for this celebration.

Articles

Singing Our Faith: Charles Wesley in The United Methodist Hymnal

The Contemporary Charles Wesley
The year 2007 marks the 300th anniversary of Charles Wesley's birth. For most of those 300 years, we have sung his hymns whenever we've gathered for worship. Wesley texts have been accompanied by a variety of tunes, harmonies, and rhythms, but usually in the predominant musical style of any particular generation's hymnal.

Charles Wesley: Still Shaping Our Faith (Circuit Rider, Sept.-Oct. 2006 issue)

Charles Wesley: A Treasury of Theology in Song
Charles Wesley was the absolute master of taking the teachings of the Bible and an understanding of abstruse theological concepts and, by skilful weaving and with a sure feel for words, turning his material into accessible, memorable, uplifting verse.

Top Ten Reasons Why United Methodists Should Sing Charles Wesley Hymns

Charles Wesley Resources from the General Board of Discipleship

Heritage Sunday Resources (May 20, 2007) from Archives and History

Heritage Sunday Order of Service from WorshipConnection.com

Remembering the Legacy of Charles Wesley (1707-1788), Interpreter Magazine, May/June 2007

A biography of Charles Wesley

Happy Birthday, Charles Wesley (December 18)
A chronology of some of the highlights of Charles Wesley's life.

Wesley Links
A list of web links related to John and Charles Wesley.

Selected Hymns of Charles Wesley
A selection of hymns by Charles Wesley, including both the text of the lyrics and a midi file for listening to the tune.

Resources from The General Board of Global Ministries
To celebrate the 300th anniversary of Charles Wesley's birth the Global Praise Program of the General Board of Global Ministries is offering a number of resources for the use of pastors and congregations.