Resources for United Methodists Discerning their Future
In the liminal season between 2019 and 2023, many individuals and churches sought tp renew their vision as United Methodists, focusing on vitality as they made disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Others explored a different future and and left the denomination.
Following the 2019 General Conference, some churches sought to disaffiliate from The United Methodist Church using Para. 2553 in the 2016 Book of Discipline. For individuals and churches discerning their future, the conference provided several resources. (See below.)
Learn more:
Coverage from Disaffiliation Vote at Annual Conference Session
Disaffiliation Resources from 2022 and 2023
On May 11, Bishop LaTrelle Easterling released a video with comprehensive information designed to answer all your questions about disaffiliation.
Updated FAQ on Disaffiliation (May 22, 2023)
DISAFFILIATION DISCERNMENT PROCESS FAQ on Disaffiliation
- What happens when a new denomination launches? – A comprehensive FAQ from the United Methodist News Service
- Book of Discipline Para. 2553 provides information on disaffiliation – A 2021 article from the BWC Board of Trustees
- Trustees outline process for disaffiliation – A 2022 article from the BWC Board of Trustees
- Paragraph 2553 of the Book of Discipline
- A letter from BWC Leadership on Church Conferences and Disaffiliation
- GCFA-Developed Standard Form Disaffiliation Agreement
- “Stay or Go: Real Talk for United Methodists Exploring Their Future” – A webinar with panelists from UMNext and the Wesleyan Covenant Association
- Q&A from the webinar
- Living Faithfully: Human Sexuality and The United Methodist Church, – A four-week small group study by Abingdon Press with an impartial approach to the matter.
Wespath video and FAQ on Disaffiliation and the Unfunded Withdrawal Liability
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKUjiah8qlM&t=5685s
- https://www.wespath.org/assets/1/7/5857.pdf
- https://www.wespath.org/assets/1/7/5857.pdf
Wespath guide to Clergy Withdrawals – Impact on Benefits when Surrendering Credentials