The Society of John Wesley


          The Society of John Wesley is a fellowship of individuals committed to the support and expansion of United Methodist Men’s ministries.

          Fellows in the Society of John Wesley are known by their witness, vision and stewardship that enhance and strengthen the mission and ministry of the church. The society was created by the United Methodist Men Foundation to promote greater awareness of the Christian principles and practices embodied in the church.

          Established in 1982 by the directors of the United Methodist Men Foundation, the Society of John Wesley is a means of recognizing those who exemplify the characteristics of John Wesley. These characteristics are best seen through service to fellow men and women and commitment to the teachings of the Christian faith. John Wesley called together such people to form “The Holy Club.” These men with varying talents and skills contributed to the rapid growth and spiritual enrichment of early Methodism.

Society fellows from West Virginia

          Don Davis has compiled a list of Society of John Wesley fellows from West Virginia down through the years: 

  1.   #75 John Balasko,  Huntington
  2. # 84 Roy Blessing, Pt. Pleasant
  3. #380 Gregory Godwin, Athens
  4. #383 James Richmond, Moundsville
  5. #451  Lyman Eugene Elkins, Huntington
  6. #548 Wayne Custer, Wheeling
  7. #645 Donald Ellis, St. Albans
  8. #669 Harry Davis
  9. #700 Roger Rasmussen, St Albans
  10. #839 Donald Davis, Maidsville
  11. #866 George Hohmann, Charleston
  12. #867 Bishop Sandra Steiner Ball, Charleston
  13. #868 Ralph Herron, Rivesville

According to Don Davis, Dale Waymire became the first fellow in the society on May 15, 1989, and the first woman was Dorothy Carter. Don’s research found that Presidents George W. Bush and Jimmy Carter are fellows in the society.

How to become a member of the society

          A gift of $1,000 to the UMM Foundation enables one to become a fellow in the Society of John Wesley. This gift is used by the foundation to support the ministries of the foundation including scouting, the Upper Room Prayer Center and men’s evangelism.

          If you are recognizing someone for their contributions to the ministry of the church, the gift may come from an individual, a UMM fellowship, or as a fundraiser in the honoree’s name. Individuals do not need to be United Methodists to join or be recognized.

           More information, including an application form, is posted online at www.gcumm.org/umm-foundation/the-society-of-john-wesley/