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. |
More than 40 workers trapped after a building under construction collapsed in South AfricaHow Miami became a sporting powerhouse: Lionel Messi, David Beckham and Tyreek Hill call it home, AActivists in Bangladesh march through universities to demand end to IsraelTom Brady roast: Netflix live event features Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick reunionBabar hoping paceman Rauf will regain full fitness and make an impact for Pakistan at T20 World CupLos Angeles hotel famous for Pretty Woman goes Back To The FutureMoyes leaving West Ham at the end of the season. Lopetegui linked as the replacementGeorgia's attorney general says Savannah overstepped in outlawing guns in unlocked carsHuman remains were found at a former Hitler base, but decay prevents determining the cause of deathNew Liberia forest boss plans to increase exports, denies working with war criminal Charles Taylor