The United Methodist Church, a prominent denomination in the United States, is witnessing a significant schism, with approximately 7,000 congregations deciding their allegiance amidst a heated theological debate.
The Associated Press reports that the crux of the dispute revolves around the church's stance on LGBTQ issues.
The United Methodist Church's prohibition of same-sex marriages and openly LGBTQ clergy has sparked controversy among many of its congregations. This discord has led to the formation of the Global Methodist Church by a group of conservative members. Theologically progressive Christians, who have chosen to remain with the United Methodist Church, are anticipated to challenge the ban at the upcoming General Conference in 2024.
The Aiken Standard noted that the exodus began in 2019, but the pace accelerated this year during regular and special meetings within the denomination. The church has largely refrained from taking punitive measures against congregations that have sanctioned LGBTQ clergy or same-sex marriages, prompting conservative-leaning congregations to sever ties with the denomination.
Bishop Karen Oliveto, an openly gay clergy member, questioned the church's stance, stating, "People aren't upset at those bishops who were closeted. It was okay for them to not tell the truth. But they're upset at me for living openly in love and joy?" She further asked, "How can we say no to love and joy as a church?"
Despite the Book of Disciplines urging families and churches "not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends," Oliveto asserts that this principle is eroding.
In the wake of this division, many departing congregations have aligned with the Global Methodist Church, a predominantly conservative Methodist movement. However, some have chosen to remain independent after leaving the United Methodist Church.
A recent study by the Public Religion Research Institute revealed a surge in Americans dissociating from any specific religion. The report found that the proportion of Americans unaffiliated with any religion rose to 27% in 2022, marking an 11% increase since 2006. A striking 30% of respondents indicated that they had switched their religious tradition or denomination due to negative teachings about or treatment of the LGBTQ community.
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