Methodism is over 250 years old. Its founder was an eighteenth century Church of England clergyman, the Rev'd John Wesley (1703-1791). On 24 May 1738 Wesley enjoyed a converting religious experience that assured him of his own salvation. This led him into a travelling preaching ministry in which he covered thousands of miles (on a horse!) offering this salvation and assurance to anyone who would listen. Many did listen and those who responded he organised into societies and classes, appointing helpers and assistants (later travelling preachers and superintendents) as overseers. Although it was Wesley's intention that these societies should remain part of the Church of England, after his death no one was able to prevent a separation. The societies Wesley had formed became societies within a separate Methodist Church. During the nineteenth century this Methodist Church fragmented. There were Wesleyans, Primitives, United Methodists and others. It wasn't until 1933 that most of the strands of Methodism were re-united.

There is no record of Wesley visiting Audlem, but he did get to various nearby places including Woore, just five miles away.