Mirror and Memory: Reflections on Early Methodism

"Discovery and reflection together," says Dr. Richard P. Heitzenrater, "are the lifeblood of the historian." Discovery is the first task of the historical researcher; reflection is the first task of the historical interpreter. Without discovery, reflection has no factual basis upon which to proceed. Without reflection, discovery has no significance or importance for the present. In these essays, Heitzenrater presents the results of some of his ground-breaking discoveries concerning early Methodist history and shares his reflections on their significance. In so doing he intends to help provide a clear mirror that reflects the image of the past without distortion as an aid to a memory of the Methodist heritage that can fully comprehend its richness and complexity.