UMC Current Landscape

We would use the current UMC Book of Discipline to begin developing our own doctrine.

AME, Free Methodist, Wesleyan Church and the (GMC) Global Methodist Church

Yes. Administrative Council would have to meet and vote to disaffiliate. We would then have a 3-month period of “discernment” (study time). Following that, the Bishop would conduct a church conference (meeting of all church members) and call for a vote on the disaffiliation.

Yes.  GMC rules for disaffiliating would apply then.

The Bishop determines the percent required for majority.  It will probably be a 2/3 majority.

That never got voted on. It’s on the table for the next General Conference, at which there will likely be fewer Orthodox representatives.  Disaffiliating churches could possibly file suit to be awarded money when they leave the UMC.

Yes. We will have to pay title transfer costs. (Estimated to be $1200 – $5000.)  An extra year of apportionments $85,000 and our fair share of the unfunded liability in the pastor’s retirement fund (could be $50,000 – $500,000 worst case)

Depends on how many people leave. Potentially gain others from local UMC who do not disaffiliate.

Much the same as other denominations and independent churches do.  Baptist churches appoint a “Pulpit Committee” that seeks out potential candidates, who then visit their church “in view of a call”.  Church members vote on whom to choose for their ministers.  Evangelical seminaries are the place to “shop” for a pastor.

Not currently.  Disaffiliation takes a lot of work that might be overwhelming for unrelated groups.

In our Arkansas Conference, 2 churches have filed for disaffiliation.  Estimation 1/3 of churches may leave UMC.

We would decide that. No one owns “Methodist”. UMC logo, Cross and Flame stay with UMC.

Yes.  That and the fact that some UMC churches and bishops are not following the current Book of Discipline in that regard.  We do and would continue to welcome everyone into our church.