The United Methodist Church lost one-fourth of its U.S. churches in a recent schism, with conservatives departing over disputes on sexuality and theology.
Now, with the approach of its first major legislative gathering in several years, the question is whether the church can avert a similar outcome elsewhere in the world, where about half its members live.
The question is particularly acute in Africa, home to the vast majority of United Methodists outside the U.S. Most of its bishops favor staying, but other voices are calling for regional conferences to disaffiliate.
At the upcoming General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, delegates will tackle a wide range of proposals – from repealing the church’s ban on same-sex marriage and ordaining LGBTQ people, to creating more autonomy for regional conferences to set such rules, to making it easier for international churches to leave the denomination.
Shooting injures 2 at Missouri high school graduation ceremony
China ramps up efforts to attract foreign investment across diverse industries
Palestinian death toll in Gaza exceeds 33,000
Mick Byrne appointed head coach as Fiji targets Nations Championship
Children are evacuated from school 'during an exam' after threat made via email
Mental health review to follow Sydney stabbing attack: Australian PM
Event to promote love of reading to be held in Kunming
Xi plants trees in Beijing, urging nationwide afforestation efforts for beautiful China
Everybody may love Raymond, but Ray Romano loves Peter Boyle
Retail sales surge 0.7% in March as Americans seem unfazed by higher prices with jobs plentiful
Mohammad Mokhber: Who is Iran’s acting president?
Drake pushes back after Rick Ross accused him of getting a nose job in Champagne Moments lyrics