John Wesley visited the Isle of Purbeck three times - first in October 1774 at the request of Mary Burt, who walked from Swanage to Salisbury (48 miles) to invite him. The second visit was to Corfe Castle in September 1776 and a third time in August 1787.

In 1774 he stayed at Mary Burt's cottage next to what is now Swanage Town Hall. This cottage was destroyed in May 1941 by enemy action but a plaque marks the spot.

The first Methodist church was built in 1807 and the present building in 1886 and its' steeple, the only one in Swanage, has been a landmark for local fishermen.

A booklet (Mary Burt went for a walk) gives great deal of historical information and is available in the church.

The original pipe organ, installed in 1896, finally failed in 1986 and a new Allen organ was purchased.

The original cast iron radiators leaked and the floor developed wet and dry rot necessitating a major renovation, which has recently been carried out, but the original pulpit has been retained.

This attractive refurbished church, with its' pleasing atmosphere, is now suitable for traditional as well as more flexible styles of worship, including drama and dance. Its' newly created foyer provides a useful meeting place.

The church is also a popular venue for concerts by local choirs and the town band.

The church hall (also in process of renovation) is in constant demand for meetings, talks etc and youth groups camping in summer months.

The church office is used as the "Cross Link" Centre for Chernobyl Children's Lifeline charity and other outreach functions.

We plan to continue to provide a variety of worship services integrated with pastoral care within the community.

We hope to continue to work for Chernobyl Children's Lifeline. ( Ten more children are expected for a holiday with us in September.)

We are investigating the way forward to increase our existing work with young people ( Junior Church, Tetra and Toddler groups) and their families, by employing a lay youth worker.

An Alpha course is planned to begin in September in association with other churches in the town to promote the gospel of God's love for all people.

Contributed by Ian Burgess May 2000

Methodist Church Websites

References in "Swanage Past" by David Lewer and Dennis Smale 58, 76, 139, 167
Numbers in bold refer to illustrations (page numbers)

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