"The thesis explored and developed in this book is that the episcopacy was the binding and cohesive power that joined and kept the Methodist connection together, especially during its early period of rapid expansion. One question that needs far more consideration by students of Methodist history is why the various parts of the movement held together. Kirby's thesis is that it was because of the episcopal office as exercised by Francis Asbury.

The volume is primarily about the Methodist Episcopal Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, although it acknowledges other relevant movements in Methodist history in America. The narrative continues to the present and outlines the implications of changes that have taken place as we have moved from an itinerant, general superintendency to diocesan episcopacy with leaders no longer elected to the office by their peers."--BOOK JACKET.