Francis Asbury

Date of Birth: August 20, 1745

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: March 31, 1816

Biography

Francis Asbury was a prominent English-born American Methodist bishop and one of the key figures in the spread of Methodism in the United States. Born on August 20, 1745, in Handsworth, England, Asbury was deeply influenced by the Methodist movement started by John Wesley. He was ordained as a Methodist preacher at a young age and quickly gained a reputation for his fervent preaching and organizational skills. In 1771, Asbury volunteered to travel to America as a missionary, where he would spend the rest of his life. Asbury’s impact on American Methodism was profound. He was instrumental in organizing the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1784 and played a crucial role in its expansion across the burgeoning nation. Known for his tireless work ethic, Asbury traveled thousands of miles on horseback, preaching and establishing Methodist societies in towns and rural areas alike. His leadership helped Methodism grow from a small movement into one of the largest denominations in America. Asbury continued his missionary work until his death on March 31, 1816, in Spotsylvania County, Virginia. His legacy lives on in the many educational institutions and churches named in his honor, as well as in the lasting influence of Methodism in the United States.

5 Interesting Facts about Francis Asbury

1. Francis Asbury traveled over 270,000 miles on horseback during his ministry.

2. He was one of the first two bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

3. Asbury was known for his simple lifestyle, often living out of his saddlebag.

4. He ordained Richard Allen, who would go on to establish the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

5. Asbury College in Kentucky and Asbury Theological Seminary are named in his honor.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Francis Asbury

1. “My soul is more at rest from the tempter when I am busily employed.”

2. “We should so work as if we were to be saved by our works; and so rely on Jesus Christ, as if we did no works.”

3. “The best of all is, God is with us.”

4. “If I should die with the loss of thousands of souls, what a dreadful judgment it would be.”

5. “I must ride or die.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Francis Asbury did not accumulate personal wealth; his highest net worth would be considered modest, as he lived a life of austerity and dedication to his missionary work.