Current Research

Bishop is currently writing a dissertation exploring Methodism and the rise of the southern middle class between 1866 and 1894. His research is based on a case study with a sample of 300 Methodist laymen who were involved in church governance. They were middle class entrepreneurs who embodied the New South Creed. And they were faithful Methodists, far removed from the Wesleyan tradition of circuit riders and love feasts. These laymen led southern Methodism into a new era of social prestige and influence. Their reputation as churchmen bolstered their own social capital.