Methodism first took root in Orrell (then known as Farmoor a hamlet of small cottages) in 1841, after a visit on horseback by the Rev Ambrose Kirkland, a Primitive Methodist Minister from the Chorley Circuit. 

In 1843 a society was formed which met in a small cottage in Queens Terrace which is now the site of Farmoor residential care home. 

A Chapel was erected in 1859 on Church St where worship was conducted for a number of years. This Chapel burnt down in 1911 and a new one erected the same year on adjacent land. This building served as the Methodist Chapel until 1963 when a new Chapel was built pictured above for public worship, the old one then being used as a Church Hall. The current new chapel had to have its roof redesigned and reopened again in 2006.

The social landscape of Orrell has changed markedly in this time, Orrell has all but lost its village status and is now very much a suburban area on the outskirts of Wigan. New property is being erected on what was once farm land, but with it new opportunities for outreach and growth.We are a friendly fellowship and no one would come here for the first time and feel isolated or ignored. Orrell currently has a membership of 65 and its activities include:

Sunday Worship at 10.45am. 

Sunday Worship at 6.00pm is a more quiet and reflective service.

Ladies Circle meet alternate Tuesday evenings at 8.00pm.

A Ladies Guild meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 2.00pm.

Orrell Church whilst valuing and affirming its Methodist heritage, is striving ecumenically with its neighbour churches to be the presence of Christ in the community to the glory of God.