The United Methodist Church (UMC) in Liberia is facing a deep schism, mirroring a global trend within the denomination, over the contentious issue of same-sex marriage and the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in church leadership. This division has led to the disaffiliation of congregations, including the 72nd United Methodist Church in Paynesville, which voted overwhelmingly to separate from the Liberia Annual Conference. The decision comes amidst the backdrop of the UMC’s 2024 General Conference decision to approve regionalization, allowing for varying stances on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ inclusion, while also permitting the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy and bishops. This move has sparked significant resistance from more conservative congregations worldwide, leading to numerous breakaways.
The 72nd United Methodist Church’s disaffiliation reflects the deeply held beliefs of its congregants, who view same-sex marriage as incompatible with their understanding of biblical teachings and Christian morality. They express concern that the UMC’s evolving stance is leading the denomination astray and jeopardizing the spiritual well-being of its members. Their decision to leave is driven by a desire to uphold traditional Christian values and maintain the integrity of their faith, as they perceive it. This sentiment is echoed by Pastor Kenneth Jackson, who emphasizes the democratic nature of the church and the congregation’s right to choose a path aligned with their convictions.
The congregants of the 72nd United Methodist Church voiced their strong opposition to same-sex marriage and their commitment to upholding what they consider traditional Christian beliefs, describing same-sex marriage as “demonic.” Their decision was formalized through a seven-count resolution, read aloud during a church service, outlining their reasons for disaffiliation. The resolution highlighted the perceived conflict between the UMC’s recent decisions and scriptural teachings, as interpreted by the congregation. It specifically cited the ordination of openly LGBTQ+ pastors and bishops as a key factor in their decision to leave.
The disaffiliation movement extends beyond the 72nd United Methodist Church, with other congregations in Liberia and across the globe grappling with similar theological disagreements. The global UMC’s attempt to accommodate diverse viewpoints through regionalization has seemingly exacerbated the tensions, failing to bridge the divide between progressive and conservative factions within the denomination. The breakaway congregations feel that the UMC’s move towards inclusivity compromises fundamental Christian doctrines and undermines the authority of scripture.
The future of the UMC in Liberia and elsewhere remains uncertain as the debate over same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ inclusion continues to polarize the denomination. The disaffiliation of congregations like the 72nd United Methodist Church represents a significant shift in the religious landscape, with potentially long-lasting consequences for the UMC’s structure and influence. The departing congregations are seeking alternative affiliations that align with their theological perspectives, potentially leading to the formation of new denominations or the strengthening of existing, more conservative Methodist bodies.
The schism within the UMC reflects a broader societal struggle to reconcile traditional religious beliefs with evolving social norms and understandings of human sexuality. This tension is playing out within various religious denominations worldwide, leading to internal conflicts and, in some cases, formal splits. The challenge for the UMC and other denominations facing similar divisions is to find a way to navigate these complex issues while maintaining unity and respecting the diverse beliefs of its members. The path forward remains unclear, but the decisions of congregations like the 72nd United Methodist Church underscore the depth of the divide and the urgency of finding a resolution.
