A journey back to the roots of Wesleyan Faith
By UNY Communications | Email
For a lifelong United Methodist, faith has always been part of the story. As the child of two pastors and the granddaughter of two clergy members, the Wesleyan tradition has shaped much of Mary Bradley's life. Yet the 2026 Susquehanna-Upper New York Wesley Pilgrimage to England offered an opportunity to discover new layers of that heritage and reconnect with the roots of a faith she has carried for nearly two decades.
“I learned so much I didn’t know about our heritage,” reflected Mary. “To reconnect where it all began was a huge blessing that I can’t seem to find the right words to express.”
Saying Yes to Jesus
The journey provided more than an opportunity to visit historic sites. The pilgrimage offered a deeper understanding of the Wesleyan movement and its lasting influence on The United Methodist Church. To prepare for the seven-day pilgrimage, Mary read the book, Revival: Faith as Wesley Lived It by the Rev. Adam Hamilton. The book traces the life and spiritual journey of John Wesley and connects Wesley’s experiences in 18th-century England with the spiritual lives of Christians today, inviting readers to rediscover their passion for faith and service.
For someone who has never attended seminary, preparing for the journey through literature helped bring the history and theology of the movement into greater focus. "One of the most meaningful moments came during communion at the New Room in Bristol, England," she explained.
Established by John Wesley in 1739, the New Room is the oldest Methodist building in the world and a significant site in the history of the Methodist movement. For Mary, sharing in communion at this historic place brought her faith journey full circle.
"That experience alone reminded me of the moment 19 years ago when I first said yes to
Bishop Violet Fisher to serve in the Episcopal Office. I remember thinking that I couldn’t do this role. At the time, I was working as the Office Administrator in the former New York West Area Episcopal Office. It made me think of everything that has happened since. I think about how much I have grown during that time and how I continue to say yes to Jesus wherever I'm needed."
The pilgrimage offered a tangible connection between the beginnings of Methodism and her own ongoing journey of faith. It was a reminder that the Wesleyan tradition is not simply a story to be studied, but a living faith that continues to shape people’s lives and call them into service.
Finding Renewal Along the Way
Beyond the historic sites and spiritual moments, the pilgrimage offered Mary an unexpected gift: the chance to slow down and simply be present. Accustomed to faithfully serving wherever she is needed, she welcomed the opportunity to set aside work and personal responsibilities and immerse herself fully in the experience.
“I felt like I had a chance to let go of everything and truly participate,” she expressed. “I know I actually de-stressed because I started not feeling well and I always get sick once I start to relax.”
That time away became its own form of spiritual renewal, reminding her that making space to rest and step back from everyday demands can open the door to reflection and a deeper awareness of God’s grace.
Building Connections Across Conferences
The pilgrimage also strengthened relationships between members of the Susquehanna and
Upper New York communities. Traveling together created opportunities to get to know one another beyond their usual roles and responsibilities.
“In beginning my new role for the entire Episcopal Area in July 2026, this pilgrimage helped me to begin forming relationships with clergy I am now working with in the Susquehanna Conference in addition to strengthening relationships I already had with Upper New York members. Friendships, conversations, and laughter along the way became part of the pilgrimage's lasting impact.”
Those connections were an important part of the experience, reminding travelers that their shared Wesleyan heritage extends beyond historic places to the people who continue to live out that tradition today.
Carrying the Journey Home
For this lifelong United Methodist, the pilgrimage was an opportunity to rediscover familiar faith through a new lens. Walking through places connected to John Wesley, learning more about Methodist history, sharing communion at the New Room, and building relationships with fellow pilgrims all contributed to an experience that was deeply personal.
The journey also offered a renewed appreciation for the ways God continues to work through the Church's history and through the lives of those who serve today.
“This trip reminded me that we live out our call wherever we are planted. I learned that through transition and change, God shows up and reminds us that our call continues if we remain open to the leading of the holy spirit in our everyday life movements. This is the third position change within my 19 years in the Episcopal Office, but God continues to remain faithful as I continue to be open to those next faithful steps.”
Mary returned home with a deeper understanding of her Wesleyan roots, gratitude for the opportunity to rest and reconnect, and a renewed appreciation for the faith that continues to guide her.
Sometimes, moving forward in faith begins by returning to where the journey began.
