Global Methodist Church Reaches 6,000 Congregations Worldwide
The Global Methodist Church (GMC), a denomination formed as a conservative counterpart to the United Methodist Church (UMC), has achieved a significant milestone by welcoming 6,000 congregations around the globe. Officially launched on May 1, 2022, the GMC announced this achievement via its Facebook page.
Celebrating the growth, the GMC stated, “That’s 6,000 pulpits preaching the Gospel, 6,000 altars where hearts are renewed… 6,000 congregations worshiping in a variety of nations and languages.” The denomination also called for continued prayers and efforts to integrate existing churches and establish new ones to extend their mission.
The GMC was established amid ongoing debates within the UMC about amending the Book of Discipline to permit the blessing of same-sex marriages and the ordination of individuals in same-sex relationships. Despite the failure of proposals to modify the Book of Discipline at the UMC General Conference, some theological liberals within the UMC chose not to adhere to the existing rules.
In January 2020, a cross-theological group of 16 UMC leaders proposed a separation protocol. This plan aimed to provide a structured path for congregations wishing to leave the UMC over doctrinal disagreements, with funds allocated to establish a theologically conservative denomination.
Although the protocol was intended for discussion at the 2020 UMC General Conference, the event faced multiple postponements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Opting not to wait for further delays, GMC organizers announced the official launch of the GMC in March 2022.
In the years following its inception, a significant number of congregations have left the UMC amid unresolved debates over LGBT issues, with many opting to join the GMC. By January of last year, Keith Boyette, GMC’s Transitional Connectional Officer, informed The Christian Post that the denomination had grown to over 4,200 congregations. He noted that while the majority were former UMC congregations, they also included congregations from other denominations, non-denominational or independent churches, and new church plants.
Subsequently, delegates at last year’s UMC General Conference voted substantially to amend the Book of Discipline to rescind certain rules, while still allowing regional bodies and local congregations to enforce them.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
