Methodists propose split over LGBTQ issues

Methodists propose split over LGBTQ issues

United Methodist Church leaders from around the world and across ideological divides unveiled a plan Jan. 3 for a new conservative denomination that would split from the church in an attempt to resolve a decades-long dispute over gay “marriage” and gay clergy. 

The proposal envisions an amicable separation in which conservative churches forming a new denomination would retain their assets. The new denomination also would receive $25 million. 

The proposal was signed in December by a 16-member panel, who worked with a mediator. 

The panel was formed after it became clear the impasse over the denomination’s views on LGBTQ issues was irreconcilable. The next step could come at the church’s General Conference in May. (AP/RNS)