The United Methodist Church lost one-fourth of its U.S. churches in a recent schism, with conservatives departing over disputes on sexuality and theology. Now the question is whether the church can avert a similar outcome elsewhere in the world, where about half its members live.
Bishop John Wesley Yohanna of the United Methodist Church delivers a message to church members Dec. 10, 2023, at the church’s headquarters in Jalingo, Nigeria, during a celebration of 100 years of Methodism in the country. The bishop invited the congregation to remember the early missionaries and the sacrifices they made. But separately, he has said the Nigeria church may split from the denomination over differences on ordination of LGBTQ people and same-sex marriage.
“Liberia was the birthplace of the United Methodist Church on the continent of Africa in the 1800s,” said Knight, of the advocacy group United Methodist Africa Forum. The church has developed leaders in education, health care and evangelism across the continent, said Knight, who also works as a human rights monitor for the church.
More than 7,600 U.S. congregations departed during a temporary window between 2019 and 2023 that enabled congregations to keep their properties – held in trust for the denomination – under relatively favorable legal terms, according to a UM News count. The departures accelerated membership losses in what until recently had been the third-largest American denomination. The United Methodist Church recorded 5.4 million U.S. members in 2022, a figure sure to plummet once disaffiliations from 2023 are factored in.
Africa Methodism General News NC State Wire Asia Asia Pacific Marriage United States Government U.S. News Religion A N Conservatism World News World News U.S. News
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Joint Worship Service and Spring Salad Potluck at Faith United Methodist ChurchA joint worship service and spring salad potluck will be held at Faith United Methodist Church in Orland Park on April 21. Members are encouraged to bring a friend to church and the goal is to have at least 120 people in attendance. Following the service, there will be a potluck where attendees can bring their favorite salad to share. Drinks, tableware, and dessert will be provided. The event will also include crafts and games for children, and Pastor Jacques Conway will share about his recent trip to Africa. The event is sponsored by the worship and fellowship committees.
Read more »
Judge strips Naperville Korean Church of assets amid property dispute with United Methodist ChurchA Korean Methodist church in Naperville has been stripped of its property and bank account while it engages in a legal battle for the assets with the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Meth…
Read more »
Cecil Murray, pastor who calmed LA after '92 riots, dead at 94Rev. Cecil Murray served as a pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church for 27 years.
Read more »
African Giants Light Up the 2024 African Games in GhanaSports Equity™ Lab (SEL) and Swiss sportswear brand On partner to showcase six outstanding African athletes in a 10-meter-tall installation at the venue of the 2024 African Games.
Read more »
South African Golf Legend Gary Player Expresses Appreciation for the United StatesGary Player, a renowned South African golfer, expresses his gratitude towards the United States while preparing for the 88th Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Player, known for his numerous major championships and being the only non-American golfer to achieve a Grand Slam, encourages listeners to prioritize a good wife, a great family, and a strong faith. He also expresses his love for the United States.
Read more »