The Origins of Wesley Place

 

Methodism is over 250 years old. Its founder was an eighteenth century Church of England clergyman, the Rev. John Wesley (1703-1791), who, after a converting religious experience on 24th May 1738, travelled throughout the country offering his experience of salvation and assurance to whoever was ready to listen.

 

As far as we know, Wesley never came to Alsager, even though his travels took him to Congleton, Burslem and Nantwich. It wasn't until after his death that Methodism came to Alsager. In 1804, a small meeting was held in the house of a Mary Cotton, just off Close Lane. In 1834, a one-roomed chapel was opened in Hassall Road which was subsequently extended in 1852. With the advent of the railway, the population of Alsager grew and the premises in Hassall Road were felt to be too small for the expanding congregation. Plans were therefore made to build a second and larger Methodist Church at the other end of the village. The first phase of the church at Wesley Place was completed in 1869. Since then, the original premises have been added to on various occasions, notably in 1969 with the completion of a large modern extension.

 

Wesley Place Present And Future

 

Wesley Place has been at the heart of the Alsager community for over 155 years…

 

It is one of the 23 churches which make up the Cheshire South Methodist Circuit. Wesley Place is also linked with local churches of other denominations in Alsager and supports various united services and activities, particularly at Christmas and Easter.

 

We strive to be a welcoming and inclusive church and community committed to embodying the love of Jesus through our shared values. Our mission is to Bridge Faith and Life. We actively engage with our local community to promote kindness and social justice. We believe in the power of fellowship and learning, encouraging one another to grow in faith and understanding as we seek to work out the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives.

 

Throughout the week we provide a number of outreach activities to support our community:

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• Monday afternoons we have a Board Games group that provides refreshments and fellowship - a chance for adults to relax and have fun

• Tuesday mornings we have our babies and toddlers group known as The Ark

• Wednesday mornings we have a time of fellowship, refreshments and a short informal service over lunchtime

• Wednesday evenings monthly - New Guild: Faith Fellowship and Fun - live music, lovely conversation, lively speakers 

• Thursday afternoons 3-5pm we have the Dinner Hub where we provide free teatime meals with refreshments and puddings for all ages from 0 to 99 years. We work in partnership with Cheshire East Family Hub who provide craft and play activities for all the children attending. 

• Thursday evenings we provide activities for young people led by our Young People’s Lay Worker: Sparkz - primary school children; Ablaze  - Years 7-13

 

Throughout the year we provide: 

 

• The Christmas Tree Festival during the Alsager Christmas Lights Switch On

• Hope Journeys for Christmas and Easter with our local primary schools

• Our local schools are provided with support by our Young People’s Lay Worker, and Fun Days are provided during the summer and half terms as well as activities with the Oakhanger Project. 

• Our building is used by various community groups including Alsager Community Choir, The Just Sing Choir, Pilates Group, Chess Club, Alcoholics Anonymous and Al Anon, Social Services, Parent Carers Training Sessions and RNLI Annual Coffee Mornings. 

 

We seek to create an environment where all feel valued and encouraged to participate in the journey of faith. Our worship services continue onsite every week on Sunday mornings, and on the Second Sunday of the month we have our Family Brunch and Reflective Service. We also have a prayer group and bible study groups held throughout the week. 

 

As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of this age, we remain dedicated to discerning God’s ongoing vision for our Church. Together we aim to be a beacon of hope and love.

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