Denominational conflict over matters of sexuality, governance, the definition of marriage, and qualifications for ordination have led to approximately 25% of UMC local churches disaffiliating from the denomination. The process for local churches to disaffiliate, however, has been limited to congregations in the United States alone.
United Methodist churches in Africa, the Philippines, and other non-USA areas have not been permitted the option to leave if they should so choose. These non-US United Methodists have been waiting for the General Conference in 2024 to extend to them a pathway to exit.
The Wesleyan Covenant Association believes, and we believe most fair-minded United Methodists also believe, that what is fair for some should be fair for all. The UMC will be unable to turn the page on this season of disaffiliation unless all congregations have been provided with the option of choosing their preferred future. Anything less will only prolong the conflict within the continuing United Methodist Church.
The WCA’s Fair for Some Fair for All is an appeal to General Conference delegates who will be meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina (April 23 – May 3, 2024) to authorize a fair, transparent, and feasible pathway for congregations, particularly Central Conference United Methodists, to separate from the UMC if they choose.
To move this initiative forward successfully, the WCA will network with General Conference delegates, promote legislation developed by Central Conference United Methodists, advocate for the General Conference to authorize an ongoing process for congregations to separate from the UMC, and provide information and other resources to that end.
Check out the developing resources on this page to hear the voices of non-USA United Methodists. Encourage others to take up this initiative: what is fair for some should be fair for all. This appeal for simple equity is among the agenda priorities for the General Conference this spring.
Watch a short YouTube video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1higiKtjVlY