United Methodist Church Faces Historic Membership Exodus

The fallout has not only reshaped the UMC’s membership but has also raised pressing questions about the future of one of the largest Protestant denominations in the world.

The African Conference’s Withdrawal

A major catalyst for the membership decline was the decision by a key West African conference, the Methodist Church of Côte d’Ivoire (EMUCI), to sever ties with the UMC. The EMUCI expressed dissatisfaction with the denomination’s progressive policies, particularly its recent vote to lift long-standing prohibitions on LGBTQ+ clergy and same-sex unions.

In a statement, the African EMUCI leadership emphasized their belief that the UMC had “deviated from the Holy Scriptures” and was willing to “sacrifice its honor and integrity to honor the LGBTQ community.” The decision was not taken lightly but was presented as a necessary step to uphold their interpretation of biblical principles.

This withdrawal reflects broader tensions within the global Methodist community, where cultural and theological differences often collide.

The U.S.-Based Vote Sparks Global Divisions

The May 2023 vote by the UMC in the United States, held during a general conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, was a turning point. With a vote of 692-51, the conference approved lifting restrictions on LGBTQ+ clergy and same-sex marriage, marking a significant shift in the denomination’s policies.

While this decision was celebrated by many progressive congregations as a step toward inclusivity and equality, it was met with resistance by more conservative factions, both in the United States and abroad. For these groups, the move represented a departure from traditional biblical teachings and sparked a wave of disaffiliations.

The Korean Methodist Church’s Response

Adding to the denomination’s challenges, the Korean Methodist Church, representing approximately 1.5 million members, has also expressed its disapproval of the UMC’s new policies. In a strongly worded statement, Korean Methodist leaders declared that “homosexuality cannot be accepted until the Lord returns,” framing the issue as one of immutable truth rather than personal opinion.

“This is not merely an emotional or cultural debate,” they asserted, “but a matter concerning the sanctity of life that the church must teach correctly and without compromise.”

The potential withdrawal of the Korean Methodist Church would be another significant blow to the UMC, further reducing its global membership and influence.

Financial Challenges and Organizational Restructuring

The mass exodus of congregations has had profound financial repercussions for the UMC. With approximately 25% of U.S.-based churches disaffiliating, the denomination is grappling with a reduced budget and the need for substantial organizational restructuring.

At a recent meeting, UMC bishops approved a spending plan for the next quadrennium, which includes several cost-cutting measures. The number of active bishops has been reduced from 39 to 32, with many now overseeing multiple conferences. While pay raises for bishops were excluded, a one-time bonus was approved for office staff to acknowledge their contributions during this difficult transition.

Additionally, a one-time grant of $20,000 was allocated to each of the 15 U.S. episcopal areas that have been forced to consolidate. These funds aim to support staff members affected by layoffs, highlighting the human impact of these structural changes.

The Path Forward

Despite the challenges, UMC leaders remain committed to their mission. Rev. Moses Kumar, the executive of the General Council on Finance and Administration, urged members to prioritize their faith and collective goals during this turbulent period.

“Let us ensure that our mission is the driving force behind our financial decisions,” Kumar stated. He praised the dedication of board members who had worked tirelessly to navigate the church’s financial challenges. “May our united efforts be fruitful as we enter this new quadrennium with optimism and determination,” he concluded.

However, the road ahead will not be easy. The UMC’s projected budget for 2025, estimated between $353.6 million and $373.4 million, represents a 40% reduction compared to the previous budget approved in 2016. This significant decrease underscores the urgent need for careful planning and adaptation.

The Human Impact

Beyond the numbers and policies, the UMC’s restructuring has deeply affected individuals who have dedicated their lives to the church. Staff reductions have been particularly painful, as noted by Rev. Sheila Ahler, who highlighted the personal toll on long-serving employees.

“In any merger, there is inevitably a decrease in staff, which is challenging,” Ahler explained. “This is especially hard when it involves the bishops’ staff, who have often been with the bishop for many years.”

The denomination’s leadership has acknowledged these difficulties, emphasizing the importance of compassion and care as they move forward.

A Historic Moment for the UMC

The United Methodist Church is at a crossroads, facing both theological and organizational challenges that will define its future. While the denomination’s commitment to inclusivity has been a source of hope for many, it has also led to significant divisions and departures.

For the UMC, this moment represents an opportunity to reflect on its identity and mission. Whether the church can reconcile its differences and find a path forward remains to be seen, but its resilience and dedication to faith will undoubtedly shape the next chapter of its history.