This week in Christian history: ELCA elects first woman leader, first Methodist preacher arrives in Australia

First Methodist preacher arrives in Australia – Aug. 10, 1815

This week marks the anniversary of when missionary Samuel Leigh arrived in Australia, being the first Methodist preacher to settle on the continent.

Born in England, Leigh sailed to Australia via the Hebe and first arrived in Sydney, where he received support for his missionary activities through local Anglican chaplains.

Two years after his arrival, Leigh worked with a farmer named John Lees to establish the first official Methodist church in Australia, and subsequently planted churches elsewhere.

“The indefatigable labors, apostolic zeal and quiet courage that characterized all his undertakings give Leigh an honored place in the history of Methodism,” wrote R. H. Doust of the Australian Dictionary of Biography.

“His memory is perpetuated in New South Wales by the Leigh Memorial Centenary Church, Parramatta, and the Leigh Theological College, Enfield.”