A Methodist service has been held until recently in St. Wilfrid's Church Hall on most Sundays at 9.30 am     Note: see bottom of page

METHODISM IN MONK FRYSTON

In 1846, at the time of the building of the Wesleyan Chapel (now Wesley house) in Water Lane, Henry wrote from Canada with some early details:
"The first meeting held in Fryston was on Christmas Eve, 1795, and the First Society formed in March 1796. It pleased God to call a few young men from darkness to light to be witnesses to His grace and power."

The serious lives of these young men encountered the usual opposition, but they stood firm, and Methodism took root in the village. By 1846, the Rev. John Roadhouse had retired to his native village, and was active in buying land for a 'commodious' chapel. Its shape was peculiar, if not unique, being built in the form of a regular hexagon (six sides). This shape stood for only thirty years when an enlargement was needed. One end was 'squared off', and a schoolroom built, giving the chapel its present shape. Generous financial help came from the Hemsworth family of Monk Fryston Hall. J.W.Roadhouse Esq. (son of the Rev .John) vas there to lay the
Foundation Stone, and in his address referred to the 'rude and dissolute state of the Frystonians and Hillamites' before Methodism was introduced.

On this chapel was based the work of Methodism in the village, with Choir, Sunday School Guild etc., and special events and distinctive non-conformist witness for more than a century. From the 1970s, the schoolroom was used for worship, serving the Methodists in both Hillam and Monk Fryston. More recently, the weekly services have been held in the Church Hall, and in addition, a regular and successful monthly Coffee Morning is held in aid of a charity.

The Editor is indebted to Richard Moody, Selby's local historian for compilation of this history

It is with much sadness that the local Metodists have made the decision to move forward and worship in other Churches around the area.

The final service was a Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving of Methodism in Hillam and Monk Fryston and took place in Monk Fryston Anglican Church on Sunday August 3rd 2008 at 3pm. Circuit staff led the worship and the Rev. Ken Marshall was guest speaker.