About Us
About Us
Serving with love and sharing God's grace.
Serving with love and sharing God's grace.
At Yarm Methodist Church we celebrate the love of God, serve others with love and share the good news of God's grace so that everyone can enjoy spiritual growth and guidance and know that they are loved to the uttermost.
Not a museum but a vibrant worshipping and missional community in the tradition of the Wesleys
This beautiful chapel on the banks of the River Tees in Yarm could be forgiven for resting on its history as one of the most significant Wesleyan sites in the UK and even the world. This would be to deny its heritage though rather than being true to it.
Wesley wrote in “Thoughts Upon Methodism” in 1786:
‘I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit and discipline with which they first set out’.
At Yarm Methodist Church we continue to be motivated and empowered by the Spirit of God for the well being of the world which we serve.
Whilst our heritage is so very important to us, we are not a museum but rather a vibrant and vital forward-looking Christian community.
Serving with love and sharing God's grace.
At Yarm Methodist Church we celebrate the love of God, serve others with love and share the good news of God's grace so that everyone can enjoy spiritual growth and guidance and know that they are loved to the uttermost.
Not a museum but a vibrant worshipping and missional community in the tradition of the Wesleys
This beautiful chapel on the banks of the River Tees in Yarm could be forgiven for resting on its history as one of the most significant Wesleyan sites in the UK and even the world. This would be to deny its heritage though rather than being true to it.
Wesley wrote in “Thoughts Upon Methodism” in 1786:
‘I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit and discipline with which they first set out’.
At Yarm Methodist Church we continue to be motivated and empowered by the Spirit of God for the well being of the world which we serve.
Whilst our heritage is so very important to us, we are not a museum but rather a vibrant and vital forward-looking Christian community.
John Wesley's First Visit to Yarm
1748
In August 1748, John Wesley came to Yarm for the first time, preaching in the market place to a large and lively crowd. Though he was weary from his travels, he could not turn down the invitation to share God’s word. That day marked the beginning of a deep and lasting connection between Wesley and Yarm, where he would return time and again to nurture a community of faith.
John Wesley's First Visit to Yarm
1748
In August 1748, John Wesley came to Yarm for the first time, preaching in the market place to a large and lively crowd. Though he was weary from his travels, he could not turn down the invitation to share God’s word. That day marked the beginning of a deep and lasting connection between Wesley and Yarm, where he would return time and again to nurture a community of faith.
John Wesley's First Visit to Yarm
1748
In August 1748, John Wesley came to Yarm for the first time, preaching in the market place to a large and lively crowd. Though he was weary from his travels, he could not turn down the invitation to share God’s word. That day marked the beginning of a deep and lasting connection between Wesley and Yarm, where he would return time and again to nurture a community of faith.
Opening of the 'New House'
1764
On April 24, 1764, Wesley preached for the first time in the newly built octagonal chapel at Yarm, which he described as “by far the most elegant in England.” This “New House” became not just a beautiful building but a sacred space where God’s love could be proclaimed to all. Its unique shape, so favoured by Wesley, symbolised a place without corners where nothing could be hidden—only light, fellowship, and grace.
Opening of the 'New House'
1764
On April 24, 1764, Wesley preached for the first time in the newly built octagonal chapel at Yarm, which he described as “by far the most elegant in England.” This “New House” became not just a beautiful building but a sacred space where God’s love could be proclaimed to all. Its unique shape, so favoured by Wesley, symbolised a place without corners where nothing could be hidden—only light, fellowship, and grace.
A Chapel Expansion
1815
As the congregation grew, so too did the chapel. In 1815, the walls were raised and a gallery was added, more than doubling its capacity. These changes reflected the hunger of the people to gather together, worship, and be strengthened by God’s Spirit. The expanded chapel stood as a sign of a faithful and growing community, eager to make room for all who sought God’s presence.
A Chapel Expansion
1815
As the congregation grew, so too did the chapel. In 1815, the walls were raised and a gallery was added, more than doubling its capacity. These changes reflected the hunger of the people to gather together, worship, and be strengthened by God’s Spirit. The expanded chapel stood as a sign of a faithful and growing community, eager to make room for all who sought God’s presence.
Methodist Societies Unite
1963
Two centuries after Wesley’s visits, a new chapter began as the Methodist societies of West Street and Wesley came together as one in 1963. United in faith and fellowship, the congregation marked this bicentenary year with joy and hope. Their joining together was a beautiful reminder that in Christ we are one body, called to worship, serve, and love one another as a single family of God.
Methodist Societies Unite
1963
Two centuries after Wesley’s visits, a new chapter began as the Methodist societies of West Street and Wesley came together as one in 1963. United in faith and fellowship, the congregation marked this bicentenary year with joy and hope. Their joining together was a beautiful reminder that in Christ we are one body, called to worship, serve, and love one another as a single family of God.
Wesley Hall Development
1996
In 1996, the church underwent a major transformation with the creation of the new Wesley Hall entrance. The project removed old, impractical structures and opened a welcoming new space for fellowship and community life. Care was taken to honour the chapel’s unique heritage while embracing a spirit of renewal. Wesley Hall continues to stand as a warm and open doorway—both literally and spiritually—inviting all to share in the love and grace of God.
Wesley Hall Development
1996
In 1996, the church underwent a major transformation with the creation of the new Wesley Hall entrance. The project removed old, impractical structures and opened a welcoming new space for fellowship and community life. Care was taken to honour the chapel’s unique heritage while embracing a spirit of renewal. Wesley Hall continues to stand as a warm and open doorway—both literally and spiritually—inviting all to share in the love and grace of God.