An Emerging Force in Global Methodism Surpasses Growth Milestone
The Global Methodist Church, a theologically conservative denomination, has achieved a significant milestone, boasting over 7,000 congregations worldwide. This development comes shortly after the denomination surpassed the 6,000 mark, reflecting its rapid expansion.
Established in 2022 amidst the United Methodist Church’s ongoing discussions on LGBT issues, the Global Methodist Church has positioned itself as an alternative for congregations seeking traditional doctrinal adherence. In a recent announcement on its Facebook page, the GMC confirmed reaching this new milestone of 7,000 member churches globally.
The denomination remarked, “This moment reminds us that growth isn’t just measured in numbers — it’s found in repentance, renewal, and lives being transformed by Jesus Christ.” The GMC emphasized its commitment to Wesleyan values, focusing on heart and life holiness, and spreading love within communities.
Bishop Mark J. Webb expressed in an email that this growth “reflects the faithfulness of God and the willingness of His people to boldly follow the Holy Spirit’s leading and God’s call.” He further commented on the significance of each congregation as a testament to the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
The formation of the Global Methodist Church was a response to long-standing debates within the UMC regarding LGBT policies. The UMC had faced internal conflicts over modifying its Book of Discipline, which prohibited same-sex unions’ blessings and the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals. Despite consistent failures to amend these policies at UMC General Conferences, some within the denomination chose not to enforce them.
In early 2020, a coalition of 16 UMC leaders proposed a separation protocol, paving the way for congregations desiring to disaffiliate over these issues. This protocol also allocated funds to establish a new, conservative denomination, which eventually resulted in the creation of the Global Methodist Church. However, the approval of the protocol was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
By March 2022, the organizers of the GMC decided to proceed with the denomination’s launch in May, even without waiting for the postponed General Conference’s decision. The following years witnessed a significant number of congregations leaving the UMC, with many aligning with the GMC while others chose independence.
In early 2024, the denomination had grown to include over 4,200 congregations, as reported by GMC Transitional Connectional Officer Keith Boyette to The Christian Post. The UMC’s decision to amend the Book of Discipline allowed regional and local entities to enforce the previous rules, further influencing congregations’ decisions to join the GMC.
Most recently, in October, the Global Methodist Church announced surpassing the 6,000-member congregation mark, showcasing its continued growth and outreach.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
