Charles Wesley
Charles Wesley (December 18, 1707 – March 29, 1788) was an influential English clergyman, poet, and hymn writer, renowned for his role in founding the Methodist movement alongside his brother, John Wesley. Born in Epworth, Lincolnshire, he was the youngest surviving son of Samuel and Susanna Wesley. Charles was educated at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford, where he formed the "Holy Club" in 1729, a group dedicated to piety and good works, which earned the members the nickname "Methodists."
In 1735, Charles followed his brother into ministry and traveled with him to the Georgia colony in North America. However, due to spiritual despair and physical exhaustion, he returned to England shortly thereafter. On Whitsunday, May 21, 1738, Charles experienced a profound spiritual awakening, which fueled his future work as a preacher and hymn writer for the Methodist movement.
Charles Wesley was a prolific hymn writer, composing over 6,500 hymns, many of which remain integral to Christian worship today. Some of his most famous hymns include "Hark, the Herald Angels Sing," "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling," and "Christ the Lord Is Ris'n Today." Despite his significant contributions to Methodism, Charles was more attached to the Church of England than his brother and opposed the ordination of preachers outside the Anglican tradition.
In 1749, Charles married Sarah Gwynne, and they had eight children, though only three survived to adulthood. He spent his later years ministering in Bristol and London, leaving a lasting legacy through his hymns and influence on the Methodist movement. Charles Wesley passed away in London at the age of 80.
