To mark the 300th anniversary of John Wesley becoming a Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford, the college calls for papers exploring new understandings and interpretations of John Wesley. Deadline for submission is Jan. 16, 2026.
In addtion to the call for papers, the college wil host a day conference, which will also be the spring 2026 ‘Methodist Studies Seminar.’ This will be both in-person and online.
Submissions are invited for papers exploring new understandings and interpretations of John Wesley for now and the future at a time of global crisis, especially in aspects which relate to the Oxford of his time and how that might have influenced him. Papers offering prospective radical reinterpretations, looking forwards around significant issues, will be particularly welcome. Contributions in areas and subjects which have been under-represented or overlooked in Wesley historiography are especially encouraged.
Papers might look at areas such as international or local economic structures; virtual communications; hunger and poverty; arms and war; gender/sexuality; legacies of empire; climate and environment; people and property; ideas of nationhood and the nature of government; the role of education.... and much more.
It is hoped that there will be a publication of papers from the day.
Submissions should be for papers lasting 30 minutes in delivery (followed by time for questions and discussion), with a synopsis of 200-300 words. Please indicate if you would expect to use a powerpoint presentation.
There may also be a session for brief poster presentations, which should be timed for 5 minutes. For that a synopsis of 100-150 words is asked. Again, please indicate if you would expect to use a powerpoint presentation.
Proposers should also include a very brief profile [max. 2 sentences], with academic experience or status, institutional affiliation, research and publications.
Please send submissions to:
Dr. Peter Forsaith [email protected]
Rev. Dr. Martin Wellings [email protected]
The closing date for submissions is FRIDAY 16 JANUARY 2026.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome by Friday 30 January.