Church of England Mens Societies (CEMS) were first established in England circa 1890. The Society was formed to connect lay members of the church more deeply with the church and ts outreach. Their stated fundamental rule for members was 'To pray to God every day, and to do something to help forward the work of the church'. The Society hosted lectures, bible classes, debates and social gatherings. Hobart branches were initially formed in the 1900s in connection with St David's Cathedral, St John's (Goulburn Street), St John's (New Town), and All Saints' parishes. In the 1980s to CEMS became known as 'Anglican Mens Societies'.