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Methodist Refugee

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2019 5:25 pm
by Moogy
I officially withdrew my membership from the United Methodist Church a couple of months ago. I do not want to be affiliated with a denomination that condemns gays and lesbians (etc.) and refuses to ordain them or marry them. Recent rulings of the church have pushed the denomination away from inclusiveness and toward harsh punishments for those who violate the rules. I will watch with interest, since I believe the UMC will split on this issue. However, I do not expect my small country church in west Texas to change in a way that would bring me back.

I am looking at The Episcopal Church, although the drive is too far. I am also thinking about the Disciples of Christ, which is a shorter drive. For the present, I am going nowhere.

Remember this is the support section of the board, so no arguments please about gay marriage! :P

Re: Methodist Refugee

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2019 5:31 pm
by FinallyFree
So sorry this has happened for you. I hope you will consider giving Disciples of Christ a try. If I ever left D of C, I would consider the Episcopal Church.

Re: Methodist Refugee

Posted: Wed Jul 03, 2019 6:06 pm
by ena
Many church groups are seeded from a central church association. They may or may not agree with what the central organization is doing. I like local autonomy. That is one place I believe the CoC is right. It is wrong so many other times. Good luck where ever you land.

Re: Methodist Refugee

Posted: Thu Jul 04, 2019 10:01 pm
by Ivy
I am so sorry about this, Moogy. I know your initial decision to join with the UMC was carefully thought through in the beginning.
I wish you all the best in finding a new church where you can feel comfortable.

Re: Methodist Refugee

Posted: Sat Jul 06, 2019 10:55 pm
by zeek
Moogy, I am so sorry that you and many others in the U.M.C. were forced to this decision. Thank you for taking a stand and giving more than just lip service to your principles by making this personal sacrifice for the rights and dignity of the LGBT community.