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Pentecost Sunday

Aled Jones is in Bristol to explore the spiritual inspiration of John and Charles Wesley, and to introduce classic Wesley hymns from the oldest Methodist building in the world.

To celebrate Pentecost Sunday, Aled Jones visits John Wesley’s New Room in Bristol, the oldest Methodist building in the world, to explore the extraordinary story and legacy of John and Charles Wesley, who founded the Methodist movement.

Just like the disciples of Jesus at the first Pentecost, the Wesley brothers had their own encounters with the Holy Spirit in 1738, which lit a fire inside them to spread the word of God. John’s experience is remembered as Aldersgate Day by the millions of Methodist Christians across the world, and this year, it falls on the exact same day as Pentecost Sunday.

Aled meets historian Paul Marshall to discover how this profound spiritual experience transformed John Wesley into one of the most influential figures in Christian history.

In Devon, we join local children enjoying an immersive experience to help them learn about the world of the Wesleys. Volunteers transport the youngsters back to the 1700s with costumes and even a hymn-writing workshop to show how the Methodist message is still relevant today.

And back in Bristol, Aled visits Turnaround, a charity firmly built on the principles of John and Charles Wesley to help the homeless and vulnerable in the city.

With hymns and songs for Pentecost Sunday, including specially recorded Charles Wesley classics from the New Room in Bristol.

1. O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing – John Wesley's New Room, Bristol
2. And Can It Be That I Should Gain – John Wesley's New Room, Bristol
3. O Thou Who Camest From Above – Canterbury Cathedral
4. Holy Spirit You Are Welcome Here – Saint Wilfrid Church, Bognor Regis
5. Cornerstone – Christ Church Downend, Bristol
6. Love Divine, All Love Excelling – John Wesley's New Room, Bristol

Release date:

34 minutes

On TV

Sun 24 May 2026 13:15

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Aled Jones
Producer Andy Hassall
Executive Producer Naomi Callan
Executive Producer Caroline Matthews
Series Producer David Waters
Production Company CTVC

Broadcast

What school hymn have you crowned as the ultimate favourite?

What school hymn have you crowned as the ultimate favourite?

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