Class & Love Feast Meetings. Photo taken from Glad Tidings article (Advent 2019, p. 5)
Primitive Methodist Society in the UECNA (West)
The United Episcopal Society of Primitive Methodists is an example of how a consistent Methodism would operate if keeping with Mr. John Wesley's 'Old Plan'. The Wesleyan Old Plan expected "the people called Methodists" to remain within the Anglican Church, which was "nearer the scriptural and primitive plan than any other national Church upon earth". Consequently, it was Mr. Wesley's wish for his people be 'societal'-- not forming a new sect but remaining "Church of Englandmen still"'. This purpose Wesley called the "peculiar glory of the Methodists".
Arguably, methodistical Anglicanism began with the Oxford Holy Club in 1726, but a more particular form of it, known as Wesleyite methodism, with the Foundery Society in 1739. Respecting the latter, Wesley said if his people ever abandoned "the doctrine, spirit, and discipline they first set out", they would subsist only "as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power." So, we imitate the first scheme of Mr. Wesley and his associates as closely as possible.
We also offer the older form of religious society known as "Woodwardian" started by Bishop W. Beveridge in the 1680's. However, by the middle of the 18th c. many of the extant Woodwardian societies joined Whitefieldian and Wesleyite methodism.
If you are resident anywhere the Western states, you may join this Society, filling out the fields given at our Contact page. There is no denominational test-- the only requirement being a sincere wish “to flee the coming wrath, and be saved from sin". We will reply in a speedy manner, further discussing the nature of our Society, its membership, and arrange a personal visit by a fellow-laborer. Societal grades and offices include hearer, probationer, exhorter, leader, and helper. Our greatest wish is to prepare Christians for '"God’s Kingdom here on earth". Our religious community is listed at the UECNA's national website.
*The term "Primitive" indicates a strong commitment to be 'societal'-- deferring vestments, titles, hours, and sacraments to the established Church, Such was the example of Irish Primitives, but in America "primitive" often meant greater lay-involvement, as with Bailey's Reformed Methodists.
Arguably, methodistical Anglicanism began with the Oxford Holy Club in 1726, but a more particular form of it, known as Wesleyite methodism, with the Foundery Society in 1739. Respecting the latter, Wesley said if his people ever abandoned "the doctrine, spirit, and discipline they first set out", they would subsist only "as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power." So, we imitate the first scheme of Mr. Wesley and his associates as closely as possible.
We also offer the older form of religious society known as "Woodwardian" started by Bishop W. Beveridge in the 1680's. However, by the middle of the 18th c. many of the extant Woodwardian societies joined Whitefieldian and Wesleyite methodism.
If you are resident anywhere the Western states, you may join this Society, filling out the fields given at our Contact page. There is no denominational test-- the only requirement being a sincere wish “to flee the coming wrath, and be saved from sin". We will reply in a speedy manner, further discussing the nature of our Society, its membership, and arrange a personal visit by a fellow-laborer. Societal grades and offices include hearer, probationer, exhorter, leader, and helper. Our greatest wish is to prepare Christians for '"God’s Kingdom here on earth". Our religious community is listed at the UECNA's national website.
*The term "Primitive" indicates a strong commitment to be 'societal'-- deferring vestments, titles, hours, and sacraments to the established Church, Such was the example of Irish Primitives, but in America "primitive" often meant greater lay-involvement, as with Bailey's Reformed Methodists.
Our Motto:
Believe, Love, Obey
The General Rule:
Below are the terms of membership of our Society, keeping with the original General Rule published in 1743:
"There is one only condition previously required of those who desire admission into these societies, a desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from their sins. But where this is really fixed in the soul, it will be shown but its fruits. It is therefore expected of all who continue therein, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation",
1. First, by doing no harm (Isa. i.16, Rom. xii.9), by avoiding evil in every kind; especially, that which is most generally practiced.
Such is taking the name of God in vain (See 3rd Commandment., Mat xi.37);
The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordinary work thereon or by buying or selling (See 4th Com., Isa lviii. 13-14, Num. xv.32-35; also tract, Word to Sabbath-Breaker);
Drunkenness, buying or selling spirituous liquors, or drinking them, without necessity (See Rom. xiii.13, Mat xxiv.36- , 1Thes. v.6-8):
Fighting, quarreling, brawling; brother going to law with brother; returning evil for evil, or railing for railing (See 6th Com., 1Cor vi.7, 1Cor v.11, Rom. xii.17): the using many words in buying or selling (Col. iii.9, Rev. xxi.8 & xxii.15, John viii.44, Eph. iv.25):
The buying or selling uncustomed goods (Mat 22.21, Rom xiii.1):
The giving or taking things on usury: i.e., unlawful interest (Exod. xxii.25, Lev. xxv.35-37, Jer.xv.10, Ezek. xviii.5-9, Jam. v.1-3):
Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation, particularly speaking evil of magistrates or of ministers (Col. iv.6, Acts. xxiii.25):
Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us (Mat. vii.12, Lk. vi.21):
Doing what we know is not for the glory of God (1 Cor. x.31 & vi. 19-20): As
The putting on of gold and costly apparel:
The taking such diversions as cannot be used in the name of the Lord Jesus:
The singing those songs, or reading those books, which do not tend to the knowledge or Love of God (Js v.13, Eph. 12.3, Col.iii.16-17):
Softness and needless self-indulgence (Mat. x.38, Mark viii.34, Lk. ix.23).
Laying up treasures upon earth (Mat. vi.19-21, 1Tim. vi.9-10):
Borrowing without probability of paying: or taking up goods without probability of paying them (Mark x.18-19, 1Cor. vi.8, Is. xxi.2 & xxxiii.1).
2. It is expected of all who continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation. Secondly, by doing good, by being in every kind, merciful after their power, as they have opportunity, doing good of every possible sort, and as far as is possible to all men (Isa. i.17, Mat. iii.8, Acts xxvi. 19-20, Rom.xii.9);
To their bodies, of the ability which God giveth, by giving food to the hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting or helping them that are sick, or in prison (Ecc. ix.10, Gal. v.10, Mat. xxv.31-46).
To their souls, by instructing, reproving or exhorting all we have any intercourse with: trampling under foot that enthusiastic doctrine of devils, that 'we are not to do good, unless our heart be free to it (2Thes. v.14, Lev. xix.17, Deut. vi.7, Heb. iii.12-13).
By doing good especially to them that are of the household of faith, or groaning so to be; employing them preferably to others, buying one of another; helping each other in business, and so much the more, because the world will love its own, and them only (Gal. vi.10, 1Jn iii.14).
By all possible diligence and frugality, that the gospel be not blamed (Mat. v.16, Rom. xii.11 & 17, 1Tim. v.8, 1 Pe. 11.2, 1Cor. xv.58, 2Cor vi.3).
By running with patience the race that is set before them denying themselves, and taking up their cross daily; submitting to bear the reproach of Christ, to be as the filth and off-scouring of the world, and looking that men should say all manner of evil of them falsely for the Lord's sake (Mat. xvi 24, Mark viii.34, Mat. v. 10-11, Mat. x.25, Mat. xix.28-29).
3. It is expected of all who desire to continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation
Thirdly, By attending upon all the ordinances of God* (Luke 1.16, Isa. lv.6). Such are
The public worship of God (Psa. xliii.4 and lxxxiv.10, Luke 11.37, Judges xx.26);
The ministry of the word, either read or expounded (Acts xx.2, 2Tim. iv.2, Rom. x.17):
The supper of the Lord (Acts ii.46, 1Cor xi.24);
Family (Joshua xxiv.15, Acts x.2) and private prayer (Psa. cxix.164, Dan. vi.13, Acts ix.10, Mat. xiv.23 and vi.6);
Searching the scriptures (Deut. vi.7, Psa. 1.2, Rev. 1.3, John v.39, Luke x.26, Acts xvii.11); and
Fasting or abstinence (Joel 11.12, Mat. vi.17, Mark ix.29, 1Cor. viii.5 and ix.27)
Singing Hymns and Psalms and spiritual Songs (Mat. xxxi.30, James v.13, Col. iii.17)"
"These are the General Rules of our Societies; all which we are taught of God to observe, even in his written word, the only rule, and the sufficient rule both of our faith and practice. And all these we know his Spirit writes on every truly awakened heart. If there be among us who observe them not, who habitually break any of them, let it be made known unto them who watch that soul, as they that must give an account. We will admonish him of the error of his ways: We will bear with him for a season. But then if he repent not, he hath no more place among us. We have delivered our soul."
"There is one only condition previously required of those who desire admission into these societies, a desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from their sins. But where this is really fixed in the soul, it will be shown but its fruits. It is therefore expected of all who continue therein, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation",
1. First, by doing no harm (Isa. i.16, Rom. xii.9), by avoiding evil in every kind; especially, that which is most generally practiced.
Such is taking the name of God in vain (See 3rd Commandment., Mat xi.37);
The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordinary work thereon or by buying or selling (See 4th Com., Isa lviii. 13-14, Num. xv.32-35; also tract, Word to Sabbath-Breaker);
Drunkenness, buying or selling spirituous liquors, or drinking them, without necessity (See Rom. xiii.13, Mat xxiv.36- , 1Thes. v.6-8):
Fighting, quarreling, brawling; brother going to law with brother; returning evil for evil, or railing for railing (See 6th Com., 1Cor vi.7, 1Cor v.11, Rom. xii.17): the using many words in buying or selling (Col. iii.9, Rev. xxi.8 & xxii.15, John viii.44, Eph. iv.25):
The buying or selling uncustomed goods (Mat 22.21, Rom xiii.1):
The giving or taking things on usury: i.e., unlawful interest (Exod. xxii.25, Lev. xxv.35-37, Jer.xv.10, Ezek. xviii.5-9, Jam. v.1-3):
Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation, particularly speaking evil of magistrates or of ministers (Col. iv.6, Acts. xxiii.25):
Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us (Mat. vii.12, Lk. vi.21):
Doing what we know is not for the glory of God (1 Cor. x.31 & vi. 19-20): As
The putting on of gold and costly apparel:
The taking such diversions as cannot be used in the name of the Lord Jesus:
The singing those songs, or reading those books, which do not tend to the knowledge or Love of God (Js v.13, Eph. 12.3, Col.iii.16-17):
Softness and needless self-indulgence (Mat. x.38, Mark viii.34, Lk. ix.23).
Laying up treasures upon earth (Mat. vi.19-21, 1Tim. vi.9-10):
Borrowing without probability of paying: or taking up goods without probability of paying them (Mark x.18-19, 1Cor. vi.8, Is. xxi.2 & xxxiii.1).
2. It is expected of all who continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation. Secondly, by doing good, by being in every kind, merciful after their power, as they have opportunity, doing good of every possible sort, and as far as is possible to all men (Isa. i.17, Mat. iii.8, Acts xxvi. 19-20, Rom.xii.9);
To their bodies, of the ability which God giveth, by giving food to the hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting or helping them that are sick, or in prison (Ecc. ix.10, Gal. v.10, Mat. xxv.31-46).
To their souls, by instructing, reproving or exhorting all we have any intercourse with: trampling under foot that enthusiastic doctrine of devils, that 'we are not to do good, unless our heart be free to it (2Thes. v.14, Lev. xix.17, Deut. vi.7, Heb. iii.12-13).
By doing good especially to them that are of the household of faith, or groaning so to be; employing them preferably to others, buying one of another; helping each other in business, and so much the more, because the world will love its own, and them only (Gal. vi.10, 1Jn iii.14).
By all possible diligence and frugality, that the gospel be not blamed (Mat. v.16, Rom. xii.11 & 17, 1Tim. v.8, 1 Pe. 11.2, 1Cor. xv.58, 2Cor vi.3).
By running with patience the race that is set before them denying themselves, and taking up their cross daily; submitting to bear the reproach of Christ, to be as the filth and off-scouring of the world, and looking that men should say all manner of evil of them falsely for the Lord's sake (Mat. xvi 24, Mark viii.34, Mat. v. 10-11, Mat. x.25, Mat. xix.28-29).
3. It is expected of all who desire to continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation
Thirdly, By attending upon all the ordinances of God* (Luke 1.16, Isa. lv.6). Such are
The public worship of God (Psa. xliii.4 and lxxxiv.10, Luke 11.37, Judges xx.26);
The ministry of the word, either read or expounded (Acts xx.2, 2Tim. iv.2, Rom. x.17):
The supper of the Lord (Acts ii.46, 1Cor xi.24);
Family (Joshua xxiv.15, Acts x.2) and private prayer (Psa. cxix.164, Dan. vi.13, Acts ix.10, Mat. xiv.23 and vi.6);
Searching the scriptures (Deut. vi.7, Psa. 1.2, Rev. 1.3, John v.39, Luke x.26, Acts xvii.11); and
Fasting or abstinence (Joel 11.12, Mat. vi.17, Mark ix.29, 1Cor. viii.5 and ix.27)
Singing Hymns and Psalms and spiritual Songs (Mat. xxxi.30, James v.13, Col. iii.17)"
"These are the General Rules of our Societies; all which we are taught of God to observe, even in his written word, the only rule, and the sufficient rule both of our faith and practice. And all these we know his Spirit writes on every truly awakened heart. If there be among us who observe them not, who habitually break any of them, let it be made known unto them who watch that soul, as they that must give an account. We will admonish him of the error of his ways: We will bear with him for a season. But then if he repent not, he hath no more place among us. We have delivered our soul."
Sunday Services:
1. Regarding Anglican liturgy, Wesley said,
"I believe there is no liturgy in the world, either in ancient or modern language, which breathes more of a solid, scriptural, rational piety, than the Common Prayer of the Church of England. And though the main of it was compiled considerably more than two hundred years ago, yet is the language of it not only pure, but strong and elegant, in the highest degree."
2. The Book of Common Prayer, according to the Use of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America, accepted by the General Convention of 1928, also known as 'the standard book' in the UECNA, is hereby declared to be the Prayer Book of this Society.
3. Any other books other than the 1928 BCP shall be used in "addition to" and not "instead of" the 1928 BCP.
4 The Society shall hold no service during church hours (forenoon) unless there be no United Episcopal Church, or evangelical church in unity with the UECNA, within an hour's drive.
5. There shall be no administration of sacrament unless there be an ordained minister available.
6. Whenever Divine Service is performed on the Lord's Day, the officiating person shall read either the Service of the Protestant Episcopal Church, approved by the General Convention in 1928-- also known as the standard book-- OR the Lessons appointed by the calendar, concluding with the Daily Collect, or with other collects, and Grace. But we recommend the full service.
7. An abridged Service Book (e.g., without the Order for Holy Communion or Ordinal) eventually may be provided, drawn from the historical American BCP.
8. Let us continue to pray for the Supreme Rulers in these United States.
"I believe there is no liturgy in the world, either in ancient or modern language, which breathes more of a solid, scriptural, rational piety, than the Common Prayer of the Church of England. And though the main of it was compiled considerably more than two hundred years ago, yet is the language of it not only pure, but strong and elegant, in the highest degree."
2. The Book of Common Prayer, according to the Use of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America, accepted by the General Convention of 1928, also known as 'the standard book' in the UECNA, is hereby declared to be the Prayer Book of this Society.
3. Any other books other than the 1928 BCP shall be used in "addition to" and not "instead of" the 1928 BCP.
4 The Society shall hold no service during church hours (forenoon) unless there be no United Episcopal Church, or evangelical church in unity with the UECNA, within an hour's drive.
5. There shall be no administration of sacrament unless there be an ordained minister available.
6. Whenever Divine Service is performed on the Lord's Day, the officiating person shall read either the Service of the Protestant Episcopal Church, approved by the General Convention in 1928-- also known as the standard book-- OR the Lessons appointed by the calendar, concluding with the Daily Collect, or with other collects, and Grace. But we recommend the full service.
7. An abridged Service Book (e.g., without the Order for Holy Communion or Ordinal) eventually may be provided, drawn from the historical American BCP.
8. Let us continue to pray for the Supreme Rulers in these United States.
Weekday Worship:
"Section XXI: Weekday Worship
1. The use of the daily office or forms for family prayer in the 1928 Book of Common Prayer is commended. The select Lessons and Psalms should be read during the course of the week, even the 1922 or 1945 lectionary.
2. The litany should be read by Helpers and Assistants each Wednesday and Friday.
3. Members shall Fast every Friday."
1. The use of the daily office or forms for family prayer in the 1928 Book of Common Prayer is commended. The select Lessons and Psalms should be read during the course of the week, even the 1922 or 1945 lectionary.
2. The litany should be read by Helpers and Assistants each Wednesday and Friday.
3. Members shall Fast every Friday."
Making Chapels:
"Section XXIII: Of Forming Chapels or Preaching-Houses
2. We are "a network, or Society, of families and homes attending and promoting the private duties of Christian worship– neither intruding upon church hours nor the administration of gospel sacraments. In this respect, we draw upon the example of historic English, societal Protestantism. These private duties include the regular reading of holy scripture, daily family & closet prayers, catechizing of children, hymn & psalter-singing, mutual watching, & keeping Godly conversation as described by our General Rule. The society shall provide prudential advice, instruction, and occasional literature for advancing such duties among the people-- e.g., householders, Sabbath-School teachers, and others. Where divine Providence prompts, brethren may draw together forming chapel(s), or preaching-houses, for the United Episcopal Church or other denomination(s) [the plural indicating even federated chapels], without harm or scandal to the unity of the society or our profession of brotherly love. Regardless, all chapels will charitably and reasonably permit Helpers, and other officers of this Society, to access such properties for the continuance of societal fellowship and worship while wanted”
Quest. 1 Is there any exception to the rule, 'Let the men and women sit apart?'
Answ. There is no exception. Let them sit apart in all our Houses.
6. Christian Unity is summed by Mr. Wesley’s sermon on ‘The Catholic Spirit’ (Sermon 39). Wesley said we are of "no particular sect nor party; we are friends to all”.
2. We are "a network, or Society, of families and homes attending and promoting the private duties of Christian worship– neither intruding upon church hours nor the administration of gospel sacraments. In this respect, we draw upon the example of historic English, societal Protestantism. These private duties include the regular reading of holy scripture, daily family & closet prayers, catechizing of children, hymn & psalter-singing, mutual watching, & keeping Godly conversation as described by our General Rule. The society shall provide prudential advice, instruction, and occasional literature for advancing such duties among the people-- e.g., householders, Sabbath-School teachers, and others. Where divine Providence prompts, brethren may draw together forming chapel(s), or preaching-houses, for the United Episcopal Church or other denomination(s) [the plural indicating even federated chapels], without harm or scandal to the unity of the society or our profession of brotherly love. Regardless, all chapels will charitably and reasonably permit Helpers, and other officers of this Society, to access such properties for the continuance of societal fellowship and worship while wanted”
Quest. 1 Is there any exception to the rule, 'Let the men and women sit apart?'
Answ. There is no exception. Let them sit apart in all our Houses.
6. Christian Unity is summed by Mr. Wesley’s sermon on ‘The Catholic Spirit’ (Sermon 39). Wesley said we are of "no particular sect nor party; we are friends to all”.
Officers:
Quest. What Officers mainly belong to this Society?
Answ. These are the Assistants, Helpers, and Leaders who answer the Episcopal Visitor. The labor of the Society, including its officers, shall restrict itself to the UE Missionary Diocese of the West.
Answ. These are the Assistants, Helpers, and Leaders who answer the Episcopal Visitor. The labor of the Society, including its officers, shall restrict itself to the UE Missionary Diocese of the West.
Bylaws:
The above sections are extracts from our societal bylaws. Our complete bylaws may be read here.
"Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves." Phil. 2:2-3 (KJV)