Dr. Geordan Hammond has served as the scholar-in-residence for the Wesley Pilgrimage since 2026. Dr. Hammond is a faculty member at Candler School of Theology at Emory University where he serves as Associate Professor of Methodist and Wesleyan Studies & Director of International Initiatives. He previously served as director of the Manchester Wesley Research Centre, senior lecturer in church history and Wesley studies, and director of research at Nazarene Theological College in Manchester, England. His areas of expertise include church history and theology with a focus on Britain and America in the early modern and modern periods, and the history and theology of the Methodist and Wesleyan traditions. He lives in the Atlanta area where he is an active member of Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church in Atlanta on the Emory campus.

What’s your experience with the Wesley Pilgrimage?

2026 was my first UMC Wesley Pilgrimage, however, I’ve been aware of them since about 2009. At that time I worked at Epworth Old Rectory (the Wesley family home) and supported the Wesley Pilgrimage led by Steve Manskar and Paul Chilcote. Later I gave talks about early Methodism and participated in a Leading Edge (pastors from large United Methodist churches) Wesley Pilgrimage. I have also assisted and given talks to about a dozen Educational Opportunities Wesleyan Heritage tours to folks from various UMC churches.

What are you you looking forward to on the Pilgrimage?

I’m looking forward to getting to know my fellow pilgrims. For me, the highlight of previous pilgrimages has been the quality time I had with fellow pilgrims to share experiences and deep conversations at Sarum College, on bus rides, and at Wesley pilgrimage sites.

Who should join the pilgrimage?

Anyone wanting to learn about the Wesleys and early Methodism in the locations were Methodism was born. The pilgrimage makes the history, theology, and spirituality of early Methodism come to life. It provides an opportunity for personal spiritual renewal and inspiration for ministry back home.