A village in Sampford Courtenay parish in mid-Devon, Sticklepath lies on the old road often followed by John Wesley on his way to and from Cornwall. His Journal mentions his calling there several times between 1743 and 1746, but his initial welcome by local Quakers was brought to an end by theological differences. A memorial stone recording his visits survives in the Friends' burial ground.
John Wesley's Journal:
September 1743: 'As we were riding through a village called Sticklepath, one stopped me in the street and asked abruptly, "Is not thy name John Wesley?" Immediately two or three more came up, and told me I must stop there. I did so; and before we had spoken many words our souls took acquaintance with each other. I found they were called Quakers; but that hurt me not, seeing the love of God was in their hearts.'
April 1744: 'I rode to Sticklepath. At one I preached in an open place, on "This is the record, that God hath given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son." A storm of rain and hail began while I was preaching; but the congregation did not move. At five I preached again. Many of the poor people followed me to the house where I lodged; and we could not consent to part till I had spent another hour in exhortation, and prayer, and thanksgiving.'
Entry written by: RFST
Category: Place
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