James Relly (1722?-1778) is recognized as the founder of modern Universalism. Raised in Wales, Relly converted to Calvinistic Methodism about 1742 and became a preacher at Rhyddlangwraig, Narberth, Pembrokeshire, England . In 1746 he left his pastorate and became an evangelist in the west of England and Wales . Relly eventually broke with mainline Methodism and is credited with establishing what has come to be recognized as the first Universalist congregation in 1750. During his lifetime he published The Tryal of Spirits (1756), The Sadducee Detected (1754), Union: Or a Treatise of the Consanguinity Between Christ and His Church (1759), and Great Salvation Contemplated (1776).
From the guide to the Relly, James, 1722?-1778. "Book of Common Place, ", 1764-1771., (Andover-Harvard Theological Library, Harvard Divinity School)
