It refers to the way in which Methodist churches and other institutions are connected and work together to support one another, share resources, and carry out mission and ministry.
In the 18th century, "connexion" (the period spelling of connection) referred to networks of individuals linked to a person or group, including in political, commercial, and religious spheres.
[3] It was used to denote the Methodist societies connected with the person of John Wesley, and connexion remains the preferred spelling in Britain, the Commonwealth, and Ireland.
This method of organizing emerged in 18th-century English nonconformist religious circles; this is why the archaic spelling (connexion rather than connection) is retained in the British church.
Methodist denominations typically give lay members representation at regional and national meetings (conferences) at which the business of the church is conducted,making it different from most episcopal government.