One-fifth of United Methodist Church (UMC) congregations in the United States have received approval to schism from the wider denomination.
More than 6,000 congregations have separated from the governing conference, dropping substantial amounts of money to buy out of the UMC.
“I don’t think any of us want to see any of our churches leave,” said president of the UMC’s Council of Bishops, Thomas Bickerton.
Bishop Thomas Bickerton attends the World Malaria Day PSA unveiling at the R Lounge at the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel in New York City. (Rob Kim/FilmMagic)
In 2019, the General Conference voted 438-384 to uphold the church’s ban on ordaining LGBTQ clergy and officiating at or hosting same-sex weddings.
However, the conference has repeatedly delayed action formally splitting the denomination along theological lines, frustrating conservatives demanding reaffirmation of orthodox teachings on sexuality.
The exterior of Foundry United Methodist Church with colors of the Pride and Progress flags in Washington, D.C. (Shannon Finney/Getty Images)
Many of the departing churches are joining the newly formed Global Methodist Church or remaining non-denominational.
Hundreds of the churches attempting to disaffiliate have faced legal or financial hurdles as the UMC has demanded large sums to maintain their property, which has led to legal battles in some states, according to the Christian Post.
Fox News’ Jon Brown contributed to this report.
