UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
The United Methodist Church (post-split) should be avoided because:
- Removed prohibitions on LGBTQ ordination and marriage in 2024
- Progressive leadership drove out traditional believers
- Bishops refused to enforce denominational standards for years
- Uses virtue signaling language ("open hearts, open minds, open doors")
- What remains is fully LGBTQ affirming
Note: The Global Methodist Church (GMC) is the traditional alternative for those seeking Methodist heritage with biblical faithfulness.
DENOMINATION BACKGROUND
The United Methodist Church was formed in 1968 through the merger of the Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church. Both traced roots to John Wesley's revival movement.
Despite official discipline prohibiting same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination, progressive bishops and clergy increasingly defied these standards. After decades of conflict, the denomination began splitting in 2022-2023.
The Global Methodist Church (GMC) was formed in 2022 by traditionalist congregations departing the UMC. Approximately 7,000 U.S. churches (about 25%) have disaffiliated, mostly joining the GMC or becoming independent.
The UMC's doctrinal trajectory:
- 1972: Added prohibition on "self-avowed practicing homosexual" clergy
- 1990s-2000s: Growing conflict as progressives pushed for change
- 2016: Failed attempt to find compromise (Way Forward Commission)
- 2019: Traditional Plan affirmed at General Conference but widely ignored
- 2022-2024: Mass disaffiliation of traditional churches
- 2024: Remaining UMC removed prohibitions on LGBTQ ordination/marriage
What remains of the UMC after traditionalist departures is fully progressive on LGBTQ issues.
Historical orthodox leaders:
- John Wesley (1703-1791): Founder of Methodist movement
- Francis Asbury (1745-1816): First American Methodist bishop
Recent progressive leaders:
- Karen Oliveto: First openly lesbian bishop (2016)
- Multiple bishops who refused to enforce Book of Discipline
Traditional leaders who departed:
- Keith Boyette: First Transitional Connectional Officer of GMC
- Rob Renfroe: President of Good News movement
Churches that remained UMC (progressive):
- Glide Memorial Church (San Francisco, CA) - Radically progressive
- The Foundry (Washington, DC) - LGBTQ affirming
Churches that departed for GMC or independence:
- The Woodlands Methodist Church (TX) - Largest church to disaffiliate
- Christ Church (Memphis, TN) - Historic large church
- Many traditional churches departed 2022-2024
