The Listening and Learning Task Force received questions submitted from the congregation of Auburn UMC. These answers were composed, to the best of their ability, by the members of the Task Force. These answers have been researched and sources cited. Many answers contain links for further information. Unless noted with source reference, the answers are subject to opinion.
Administrative Board
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Lay Leadership/Nominations Committee nominates and recruits the leaders of the Administrative Board to the following committees: Board of Trustees, Finance, Staff Parish Relations, and Lay Leadership/Nominations. Only the chairpersons of the Board of Trustees, Finance, and Staff Parish are on the Administrative Board and can vote. The Lay Leadership/Nominations Committee members are part of the Administrative Board. The Lay Leadership/Nominations Committee also nominates and recruits members-at-large to the Admin Board and lay deletes to Annual Conference. Once nominations are made the Administrative Board approves the nominations and sends the nominations to the Charge Conference. Once the Charge Conference approves the nominations then the leaders of the Administrative Board and all the administrative committees are officially approved. To read more about this process follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/book-of-discipline-2581-committee-on-nominations-and-leadership-development
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
There actually are not so many of the same people on several committees. In fact, there is only one person who sits on two of the biggest committees.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
They are supposed to be announced in advance since anyone who is a member of AUMC can attend. Our weekly newsletter, the Village Methodist, serves as a weekly place of announcements for our members. Our upcoming events are also announced on the Sunday morning screens in our Sanctuary and vocally in our announcements on Sunday mornings.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The minutes of the AB meetings are available to the congregation. They can be obtained by contacting Andrew Baird, the church administrator.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The last opportunity to be voted on by the AWFC is November 12, 2023, so a vote to disaffiliate must be completed by early September ’23. In order to achieve that, we need to begin the formal discernment process ASAP. The Administrative Board receives the Listening and Learning Task Force report in April 2023 giving the AB much time to make a decision about whether or not to enter into a formal discernment process.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
There was a church wide meeting in July of 2022. In the fall of the 2022 over 400 people from the church attended many small group sessions in their Sunday School classes and Bible Studies. There was also a church wide online presentation in November of 2022. In March of 2023 a church wide meeting was held where the congregation heard lots of information and shared their thoughts through a survey and through emails to the Listening and Learning Task Force. With the establishment of the Listening and Learning Task Force, all of these issues have been addressed except for Formal Discernment and a congregational vote, which will be decided by the Administrative Board.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Hopefully, they will do all of these.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
We did not poll the committee to see who preferred to stay UMC and who preferred to move into discernment and/or disaffiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Realistically the church is divided. Ideally we would look for a “third way” – a compromise. At this point there has been no willingness from those seeking to disaffiliate to find a compromise. Perhaps those attempts could be considered when the Administrative Board considers how AUMC should move forward. It is our prayer that we would put our efforts toward our mission as a church and seek the healing that can only come when we live into our mission to “Love God, Love neighbors, and make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.” People are exhausted by the constant drumbeat of those wishing to vote and divide. We do not have to vote. We can choose to be a church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The goal would be to keep our church together, but there may be no way to keep the entire church together. The schism with the United Methodist Church has caused the division. We are already separated by our beliefs on the interpretation of Scripture, which is the foundation of our faith. Probably most, if not all, of the members of AUMC want this to go away or be finished! Based on the survey results from the Listening and Learning Task Force informational meeting on March 20, the majority of the members (61%) would vote for disaffiliation in order to keep our church the same.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the Administrative Board elects to move forward with Discernment, they will establish the protocol for discernment meetings which could include outside speakers. As we heard during the church wide presentation on March 20th people are passionate about their beliefs and the surveys showed that there is not a super majority in our congregation. A formal discernment process would only bring more division. It is truly time to heal and put our energy and efforts into our mission as a church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Hopefully, we will be able to invite outside speakers from many different places to speak at our discernment meetings.
Book of Discipline
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The BOD constitutes the law and doctrine of the UMC. There are violations of the discipline that may be enforced as chargeable offenses. The Council of Bishops and the Judicial Council have the authority to enforce these offenses.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The decision on whether or not to perform a particular wedding is left entirely up to church leaders. You can read more about the United Methodist position on marriage by following this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/i-do-how-united-methodists-understand-christian-marriage
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
No. The current stance of the United Methodist Church is very traditional. Some feel that the wording on human sexuality could or might change at General Conference 2024. To read about the current stance of the UMC regarding our LGBTQ sisters and brothers please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
There are no charges or violations in the Alabama West Florida Conference, the Montgomery-Opelika District, or in the Auburn United Methodist Church. There are violations of the BOD in other jurisdictions outside the bounds of the southeast. Charges and violations of the BOD are handled by the individual jurisdictions. The violations of the BOD that people most often point out have taken place in the Western Jurisdiction. Our Alabama-West Florida Annual Conference and Southeastern Jurisdiction are unable to lead or monitor other parts of our denomination.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Yes. We currently have two self-avowed, practicing homosexual Bishops married to same-sex partners. There are many instances of same-sex weddings being conducted in UMC churches by UMC clergy.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Nothing has changed in the Book of Discipline.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Nothing has changed at this time. It is the lack of enforcement of the many violations of the BOD that cause people to want to disaffiliate. There is likely to be legislation presented at the 2024 GC that will challenge the UMC’s current position, added in 1972.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Alabama West Florida Conference leadership, bishops and pastors follow the Book of Discipline. Violations of the BOD in other jurisdictions are handled by the individual jurisdictions in accordance with the BOD. We give thanks that we have a process of Ordination and Licensing of Local Pastors which enables our UMC Church structure to “watch over one another in love”. To read about the vigorous process of ordination please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/spirit-empowered-church-authorized-united-methodist-ordination
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Not all of the UMC leadership follow the BOD. If they are found in violation of the BOD, the membership of his or her ministerial office shall be subject to review. These violations are currently not being enforced.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
- Only the General Conference speaks for the United Methodist Church. Bishops do not have a vote at General Conference and lose their ability to vote at any Conference level when they become a Bishop. District Superintendents serve for a temporary time and are not authorized to change the BOD. Like any member of the United Methodist Church a District Superintendent can submit proposals to be considered and voted upon at General Conference. Only at GC can changes be made to the BOD by a majority vote of the delegates present.
- Over the past 10 years there have been very few changes to the BOD and none of them have to do with human sexuality. In the past 10 years our BOD has become more conservative.
- The General Conference will convene in 2024 and will consider changes in language regarding human sexuality. This issue has been addressed in every General Conference since the 1972 General Conference. There is no way to speculate or know what or if any changes will be made.
- For a copy of the online version of the current 2016 Book of Discipline please follow this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Bishops and District Superintendents cannot make changes to the BOD. They can submit proposals to be considered and voted upon at General Conference. Only at GC can changes be made to the BOD by a majority vote of the delegates present.
Over the past 10 years there have been many changes to the BOD but none of them have to do with human sexuality. There is likely to be legislation presented at the 2024 GC that will challenge the UMC’s current position, added in 1972, on human sexuality.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
- The Alabama West Florida Conference leadership, bishops and pastors follow the Book of Discipline. Violations of the BOD in other jurisdictions are handled by the individual jurisdictions in accordance with the BOD. We give thanks that we have a process of Ordination and Licensing of Local Pastors which enables our UMC Church structure to “watch over one another in love”. To read about the vigorous process of ordination please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/spirit-empowered-church-authorized-united-methodist-ordination
- The window is not open for disaffiliation based upon what might happen. Paragraph 2553 is clear that the window is open for disaffiliation based upon “reasons of conscience regarding a change in the requirements and provisions of the Book of Discipline related to the practice of homosexuality”.
- Clergy are assigned to churches after much consultation. This process follows the Biblical version of “sending” leaders to places where they can be most effective as outlined in Acts chapters 9 and 15. After much prayer and discussion between the Cabinet and the Staff Parish Relations Committee of AUMC. The Bishop appoints a pastor who is compatible with the congregation. The fear that AUMC is going to be sent a pastor that will not relate to our church is an unfounded proposal based upon fear.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Over 200 churches in the AWFC conference have voted to disaffiliate and another 50-80 churches are planning to disaffiliate by the end of 2023. There are currently 547 churches in the AWFC, so over half of the churches will have disaffiliated. Nationwide, there are currently about 2500 churches that have disaffiliated. These traditional congregations will take with them a large number of the conservative delegates to GC whose votes would ensure a traditional outcome on votes having to do with human sexuality. Therefore, the UMC would trend toward a more progressive stance. If a traditional church is considering disaffiliation, it is wise to proceed now while there is a guaranteed exit process via para. 2553.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
No. The Bishop does not have a veto or a vote. Bishop David Graves has stated that he will not overturn the decision made by AUMC. To fully understand the separation of powers in our United Methodist structure and to understand the way decisions are made in our UMC church please read through the 100, 200 and 400 paragraphs found in the UMC Book of Discipline found on this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Yes, the bishop has veto power.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
It is currently a violation of the Book of Discipline for a UMC pastor to perform a same sex wedding. If the Book of Discipline changed allowing same sex weddings, each pastor could make an individual decision as to whether they would perform the wedding. To understand our current stance on this matter and many others please read the Social Principles found in the first section of the 2016 Book of Discipline found here: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
You can also find the UMC stance by following this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Until the BOD wording is changed, a clergy person performing a same-sex marriage would be in violation of the BOD. If AUMC stays UMC and the BOD is changed at GC 2024, the pastor would be able to perform a same-sex marriage.
Clergy
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
As described during the presentation to the church on March 20 and 21, 2023, the decreases in attendance and financial support mirror mainstream church declines over the same period of time. In our geographic area specifically there are at least two new churches that have opened. And of course, Covid has impacted all churches attendance. Many people continue to attend worship services online. And as noted in the Finance section of the FAQ, our financial support remains healthy and strong. We give great thanks that over 50 people have joined our church already this Spring and our Easter Holy Week and worship attendance was higher than it has been in years. Yes, these are challenging days for all churches and we pray that the 70% of unchurched people in our area will soon discover our vision to serve them as “A church community helping people follow Jesus, and love one another.” Knowing that there are so many unchurched and disconnected people in our area gives us great hope in our future to build connections and grow as a church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
It would not be reasonable or appropriate to make decisions based on speculation as to what might or might not happen in 2024 or 2028. Our Senior Pastor says he plans to uphold the covenant he made when he was first ordained in 1995. After almost 30 years as a pastor in the UMC Cory, sees a bright future ahead for the UMC and Auburn UMC as we seek to live into our mission to “Love God, Love Neighbor, and Make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.” As he has often stated, “The UMC is not a perfect denomination and yet, the UMC is the best example of denomination that offers space available for traditionalist, centrist, and progressive expressions of faith to come together in worship at the table of Jesus Christ.” We see this openness at AUMC when we think of our “Big Tent” church and the variety of Sunday School classes, Bible Studies, and mission outreach opportunities offered to the community.
Finance
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Here are the professing member numbers as of 12/31 of each year:
2018 – 4,136 (174 members removed by Charge Conference)
2019 – 3,887 (197 members removed by Charge Conference)
2020 – 3,743 (184 members removed by Charge Conference)
2021 – 3,515 (181 members removed by Charge Conference)
2022 – 3,301 (92 members removed by Charge Conference)
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
AUMC received $357,946 in 2021 from COVID 19 Relief Funds. All funds were used for Church expenses in the 2021 Operations Budget.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The church income for 2022 was $3,534,719 and Operational Expenses were $3,487,547 leaving the church with a positive balance for the year of $47,172. Revenues are expected to decline in 2023; therefore, efforts will have to be made to reduce expenses to remain within the level of church giving. We will always work to maintain a balanced budget. It’s difficult to predict at this point what would be required to support that goal.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
This is impossible to answer based upon a lack of current information. We do know the financial situation is deteriorating (please see specific numbers in answer #2 for question 4.) We are over $2.4 million in debt for the new property, which also has a hefty property tax burden. Unless we can turn the membership drain around, there is a point where the expenses to maintain a physical plant, such as we have, becomes an issue.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Finance committee does not foresee “doom and despair.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
No one has characterized our situation as dire at the moment. A prudent assessment of future prospects would include all the relevant facts, such as current financial information. We know giving is down. As an example, we brought in $650,701 dollars in December 2020 and only brought in $329,800 dollars this past December. Our church budget has decreased at least 10% for the past 2 years. In 2021, the budget was $3.63 million, 2022’s budget was $3.28 million, and for 2023, the budget is $2.97 million. What we also know is that if the current pace of membership drain continues, the Church finances will become an issue. We are over $2.4 million in debt with rising property taxes and associated expenses, while income is dwindling. We must right the ship!
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If AUMC disaffiliates, it is assumed that the succeeding church would assume all property and financial assets including the designated funds and endowments as well as all financial obligations, including the $2.4 million loan outstanding.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
All obligations of the Church remain. An up-to-date discussion of our financial situation would need to be brought to the whole Church to discuss our prospects and a plan for getting a handle on our income and expenses would be warranted. From there, a plan could be formed.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Apportionments are used by the Conference as determined in the AWFC budget.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
For 2023, any pledge made, and funds given to AUMC will remain with AUMC until such time as the AWFC approves disaffiliation. If that were to occur in November 2023, AUMC members can, at their option, withhold any remaining amount of the pledge. That is an individual member’s decision.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
All pledges will go to Church expenses or areas designated.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Funds will have to provided by the disaffiliated congregation.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
There are multiple sources for this funding. The “Disaffiliation Fee” is roughly comprised of two years of apportionment and a calculation of unfunded pension liabilities. This amount is $1,208,339. We are very confident that there will not be a problem in obtaining any funds shortfall! Our real estate alone will be worth nearly $30,000,000. The real work starts afterwards by restarting the growth engine of our Church! There have been no discussions of selling any Church property.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If AUMC disaffiliates, it will be up to the disaffiliated entity to cover all of the costs for this action. The current cost for disaffiliation is $1,208,339.19, which includes 2 years appropriation plus any pension liabilities.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
We (the church) will actually own all our property/buildings. There are multiple sources for this funding. The “Disaffiliation Fee” is roughly comprised of two years of apportionment and a calculation of unfunded pension liabilities. This amount is $1,208,339. This can be sourced from existing Church reserves, a capital campaign, or a bridge loan. We are very confident that there will not be a problem in obtaining any funds shortfall. Our real estate alone will be worth nearly $30,000,000. The real work starts afterwards by restarting the growth engine of our Church. We do not anticipate any reduction in our local commitment such as the Food Pantry or Loachapoka Elementary. Again, a real, churchwide discussion of our finances would need to be conducted.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The AWFC receives apportionments as well as funds from the Southeast Jurisdiction and the larger United Methodist Church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
This rings true. As the UMC shrinks, there will be less money.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
All of the COVID – 19 Funds went directly to cover the 2021 Operational Budget (programs, staff salaries and other budgetary line items). No funds were withheld for any other purposes.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
AUMC would be extremely disappointed to see any tithing members leave the church. In 2022, AUMC received $3.5 million in gifts from approximately 300 pledges, unpledged giving, and miscellaneous items such as football parking and a variety of rental payments.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
A discussion of finances needs to be a priority for the Church after this decision has been made.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
2021 – January – March: $824,317
2022 – January – March: $758,610
2023 – January – March: $568,495
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Currently, AUMC pays 6% of its budget for apportionment payment. That percentage has traditionally been between 10%-16%. Apportionment payments are largely figured on the church’s membership. Yes. Our apportionment funds go to the payment for the salaries of every bishop in the UMC.
Future
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
To try to say what the church would look like if the church disaffiliated and left the covenant relationship of the United Methodist Church is purely speculation. What we know is that in our current connection as United Methodists we have a firm grasp on what we believe. We have a strong and positive staff who love one another and who work very well together. You can read more about our beliefs as United Methodist here: https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7736/united-methodists-and-grace
And here: https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
We know our mission, vision, and values as Auburn UMC we feel grateful for the heritage we have as United Methodists. Unfortunately in these divisive times combined with a long term process of disaffiliation everyone feels challenged. We give thanks that over 50 people have joined Auburn UMC already this year and that our Easter attendance was higher than it has been in years. Once this divisive season is behind us it will be important to evaluate and heal as we refocus on the important mission we have to “Love God, love neighbor, and make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If our clergy and staff stay with the UMC and AUMC disaffiliates, the clergy and staff will probably go to a UM church. In a year’s time after we disaffiliate, our membership numbers will be much higher, our financial situation will be much stronger, and the programs that have weakened over the past few years will be thriving again. If the clergy decides to leave, we will hire the most dynamic traditional pastor we can find, someone like Chris Montgomery at Frazer Methodist Church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
It is speculative at best to expect recovery of membership in the short term. Recovery from the split will take time. Keep in mind that while 60.3% of the survey respondents supported discernment, some of that number are members who would vote to stay UMC. What we know is that in our current connection as United Methodist we have a firm grasp on what we believe. We have a strong and positive staff who love one another and who work very well together. You can read more about our beliefs as United Methodist here: https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7736/united-methodists-and-grace
And here: https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
We know our mission, vision, and values as Auburn UMC we feel grateful for the heritage we have as United Methodists. Unfortunately in these divisive times combined with a long term process of disaffiliation everyone feels challenged. We give thanks that over 50 people have joined Auburn UMC already this year and that our Easter attendance was higher than it has been in years. Once this divisive season is behind us it will be important to evaluate and heal as we refocus on the important mission we have to “Love God, love neighbor, and make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
As shown in the survey taken by members of AUMC at the March 20 informational meeting (presented by the Listening and Learning Task Force,) the majority of the congregation is traditional (see 61% survey results for Discernment and related survey comments.) Many members have left AUMC because they do not like the progressive trend in the UMC. Members currently visiting other churches have shared that they would like to come back to AUMC if we disaffiliate. As the Auburn area grows, we will gain new members who want a traditional Methodist church. If we have a dynamic, traditional pastor, we foresee the church drawing new members in just as our church experienced much growth when George Mathison was Senior Pastor.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We cannot speculate on where or how an independent church or a new denomination might face the challenge of split. What we know is that to remain United Methodist leaves the church connected to a strong denomination with diversity of thought, beliefs and life experiences. Unity in diversity invites individuals into the Body of Christ allowing for disciple-making for the transformation of the world. Choosing one issue to stand upon invites single thought, group think which is never healthy for an organization. This kind of organizing also gives power to a limited few who then get to choose what issue is most important making other potential splits much more likely. The good news is that as Auburn UMC we already have a strong heritage. We are a part of a church that remained united through the Civil War, through Civil Rights, through times of decline and growth. We are a part of a heritage and connection which already has clarity around our structure and we know what we believe as United Methodists. To read more about our sure foundation as United Methodists, please follow these links:
1. https://www.umc.org/en/how-we-serve/we-are-disciples
2. https://www.umc.org/en/content/united-methodist-sacraments-rites-and-rituals
3. https://www.umc.org/en/content/renewing-waters-how-united-methodists-understand-baptism
4. https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
5. https://www.umc.org/en/content/spirit-empowered-church-authorized-united-methodist-ordination
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The history of the Methodist Church reveals that the church has split a few times for major reasons. While those schisms were very serious, they do not happen often. While we can’t predict the future, based on what we observe in the past, another split is not likely for a very long time.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the church disaffiliates relationships and partnerships with the important ministries listed above would be severed. The new church would make decisions on whether to reconstruct those relationships while those who choose to remain United Methodist would continue in mission and ministry, with these important partnerships. The good news is that at Auburn United Methodist 94 cents of every dollar remains in our local church supporting our Food Pantry, our Choir, our Mission outreach, and the daily operation of our church. Six cents of every dollar goes towards missional giving such as the Wesley Foundation, ARM, Blue Lake, Huntingdon, etc. There is an old chart here that helps one understand the legacy of Connectional Giving that helped support Auburn UMC when we built our Sanctuary so many years ago. Did you know that way back then, apportionment dollars helped pay for 25% of the building cost? As UMC’s we believe that our connection is much more than dollars and cents. Our connection is truly about mission and relationships. Our members actually serve on the leadership boards of the vital ministries listed above. In our UMC connection, a portion of every dollar helps support mission and ministry locally and around the world. Furthermore, giving means more than writing a check. We believe in true partnership in ministry! To learn more about where UMC giving goes follow this link: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/churchwide/umcgiving To discover the many ways our dollars help support missions in our local Alabama-West Florida Conference visit this link: https://www.awfumc.org/ministries
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If AUMC disaffiliates, all of the programs will continue until the Administrative Board, Pastors, and Staff decide they are no longer effective. We want our programs to stay strong. Camps, retreats, educational materials, mission outreach, and programming can easily be managed without the UMC. Within the past few years, the children from AUMC went to Camp Maranook ,which is not a Methodist camp. For many years, our youth have gone to Shocco Springs, which is a Baptist Retreat Center. If our pastors and staff decide they want our children and youth to go to Methodist camps or retreat centers, our church can rent Methodist facilities, just like we have in the past. Any child can go to camp at Blue Lake or Sumatanga. Christian educational materials can be found online from many resources like Lifeway, Christian Learning Resource, or Launching Success. Cokesbury and the Methodist Publishing House will allow anyone to purchase materials from them whether they are United Methodist or not. If we join another Wesleyan denomination, that denomination will help us with staffing. If we become an independent church, we can use a hiring firm to help us find the perfect people to work with. If we disaffiliate, we will still be connected to a lot of valuable resources.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We give thanks that everyone is currently welcomed at Auburn UMC. It is difficult to know what decisions would be made by the new church. If you follow the arguments people are stating online it sounds like only certain people would be welcome in a disaffiliated Methodist church. The current reason people are choosing to disaffiliate is due to LGBTQ inclusion. Can you imagine our LGBTQ+ sisters and brothers feeling welcomed and included when members of a new church would call them sinners? The good news is that in the United Methodist Church we celebrate an “Open” communion table. We currently celebrate through our Social Principles the beautiful truth that “all people are of sacred worth” and that they are “created in the image of God”.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Just as LGBTQ+ people are welcome in AUMC now, they will be welcome if we disaffiliate. They will be allowed rolls in the church just as they are now. We are all sinners and are welcome in the church. All Methodists believe the communion table is open to everyone because it is a means of grace by which we connect with the Holy Spirit, so all members of the church can help serve communion. All sinners are welcome in the church and all sinners are expected to be changed by the Holy Spirit.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We know and deeply appreciate the Social Principles of the UMC. You can read our Social Principles by following this link: https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-social-positions Until a decision is made as to the future of the church (independent/another denomination) we cannot say definitively what, if any, social principles might exist in a new denomination or a new church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
All sinners are welcome in the church, but we are expected to be changed by the Holy Spirit. Pastors are held to a higher standard and are expected to be celibate in singleness or in a monogamous marriage to someone of the opposite gender. The requirements for becoming an ordained clergy member of any Methodist church is rigorous and can be found in that denominations Book of Discipline.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Our preschool is one of the best in Auburn and we currently have the only Children’s Day Out program in our area. The classes are almost full for the fall registration. As a United Methodist Church we would continue to support this vital outreach to our children. If a disaffiliation occurred then sadly, a newly formed church would decide whether or not to offer this ministry.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If AUMC disaffiliates, there is no reason for the Children’s Day Out Program and the AUMC Preschool to change at all.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the church disaffiliates relationships and partnerships with the many important ministries listed above would be severed, and questions of clergy pensions, healthcare, and so many other questions would then be up for great debate. The new church would have to make decisions on whether to reconstruct so many different kinds of relationships while those who choose to remain United Methodist would continue with our strongly rated pension program and the connections made through the years of mission and ministry, with these important partnerships. The good news is that at Auburn United Methodist 94 cents of every dollar remains in our local church supporting our Food Pantry, our Choir, our Mission outreach, and the daily operation of our church. Six cents of every dollar goes towards missional giving such as the Wesley Foundation, ARM, Blue Lake, Huntingdon, etc. There is an old chart here that helps one understand the legacy of Connectional Giving that helped support Auburn UMC when we built our Sanctuary so many years ago. Did you know that way back then, apportionment dollars help pay for 25% of the building cost? As UMC’s we believe that our connection is much more than dollars and cents. Our connection is truly about mission and relationships. Our members actually serve on the leadership boards of the vital ministries listed above. In our UMC connection, a portion of every dollar helps support mission and ministry locally and around the world. Furthermore, giving means more than writing a check. We believe in true partnership in ministry! To learn more about where UMC giving goes follow this link: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/churchwide/umcgiving To discover the many ways our dollars help support missions in our local Alabama-West Florida Conference visit this link: https://www.awfumc.org/ministries
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If AUMC disaffiliates, the programs at our church do not need to change. We will still go on international mission trips, because there are lots of agencies that coordinate them. We can still provide disaster relief, because there are many agencies we can work through. We can rent or send our children to any camp/retreat facility. If we join another Methodist denomination, they have programs in place for clergy health insurance and pensions. If we become an independent church, we will hire experts to help us set up health insurance and pension plans for our clergy and staff.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If disaffiliation were to happen, contracts or leases are in place for the short term, and we would hope that they would be absorbed and bound by these leases for the sake of the students. A newly formed church may choose to sell the property of the dorms or the annex where the Food Pantry and Senior Center exists. It is difficult to speculate on what a future group might choose to do with property when untethered to the covenants and partnerships we have made through the years as a United Methodist Church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If AUMC owns the dorms in the annex, then nothing has to happen to the students living in the dorms. AUMC does not own the Wesley Foundation, so nothing will change for them either.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
It is speculative at best to expect recovery of membership in the short term. Recovery from the split will take time. Keep in mind that while 60.3% of the survey respondents supported discernment, some of that number are members who would vote to stay UMC. What we know is that in our current connection as United Methodist we have a firm grasp on what we believe. We have a strong and positive staff who love one another and who work very well together. You can read more about our beliefs as United Methodist here: https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7736/united-methodists-and-grace
And here: https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
We know our mission, vision, and values as Auburn UMC we feel grateful for the heritage we have as United Methodists. Unfortunately in these divisive times combined with a long term process of disaffiliation everyone feels challenged. We give thanks that over 50 people have joined Auburn UMC already this year and that our Easter attendance was higher than it has been in years. Once this divisive season is behind us it will be important to evaluate and heal as we refocus on the important mission we have to “Love God, love neighbor, and make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
See answer #2 above.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Global Methodist Church was established less than a year ago. They are currently still in the process of assimilating new churches and deciding upon what they value and believe. They have not held an official meeting to complete decisions on their structure so it would be unfair to guess what the final decisions will be for this new denomination. We know that the Free Methodists do not have an organization comparable to the likes of UMCOR or UMVIM. UMCOR is the United Methodist Committee on Relief. It began after World War 2 and has the international reputation of being the first to arrive at a global disaster and the very last people to leave. Due to our Connectional support as United Methodists, there is always the assurance that 100% of giving through UMCOR goes directly to any need. To read more about UMCOR visit this website: https://umcmission.org/umcor/ Fifty years ago UMVIM began. UMVIM is the United Methodist Volunteers in Mission and it is one of the UMC’s greatest gifts of ministry. This is the organization that has insured and assisted Auburn UMC for so many years in our mission work to places like Haiti, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, etc. To read more about UMVIM visit this website: https://www.umvim.org/what-is-umvim
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Global Methodist Church and the Free Methodist Church both have domestic and international mission programs. Information can be found on their websites.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Wesley Foundation is a separate entity in relationship and connection the United Methodist Church. The Wesley Foundation would be financially impacted by disaffiliation because of the apportionment system. They are the one of the recipients of the connectional giving of Auburn UMC. The Wesley Foundation began out of Auburn UMC in the 1930s as an outreach to college students. Due to the effectiveness of our connection to the Wesley Foundation Auburn UMC received apportionment dollars from the denomination to pay for over 25% of the cost of our beautiful sanctuary. This generous gift was given to us because of our faithfulness as a church to live in partnership to the many students in our community. We give thanks that the Auburn Wesley Foundation has been an integral part of sending more ministers into ministry than any institution in our Alabama West Florida Conference. Thanks be to God! We look forward to continuing this partnership in ministry.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Wesley Foundation is owned by the conference, not the local church, therefore, nothing will happen to the Wesley Foundation. They will still receive the support they get from the AWFC.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
- To stay UMC would allow the function of AUMC to remain intact.
- As a disaffiliated church, function of the church would depend upon decisions made as to polity, organizational structure, administration, staffing, and programs.
- The potential loss of membership and tithes resulting from a split in the church would necessitate ongoing review of budgets and programs.
- The need for new clergy leadership would be a consequence of disaffiliating as would be the creation of mission, value, and vision for the congregation.
Here is the good news, to Stay UMC and to remain AUMC means that we already know our true identity through our current connection as United Methodist. This means we have a firm grasp on what we believe. We have a strong and positive staff who love one another and who work very well together. You can read more about our beliefs as United Methodist here: https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7736/united-methodists-and-grace
And here: https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
We know our mission, vision, and values as Auburn UMC we feel grateful for the heritage we have as United Methodists. Unfortunately in these divisive times combined with a long term process of disaffiliation everyone feels challenged. We give thanks that over 50 people have joined Auburn UMC already this year and that our Easter attendance was higher than it has been in years. Once this divisive season is behind us it will be important to evaluate and heal as we refocus on the important mission we have to “Love God, love neighbor, and make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Under either option, AUMC will function the same way it always has. The only difference will be that if we disaffiliate, we will preserve the traditional beliefs that our church has held for 200 years, as opposed to going in a more progressive direction with the UMC.
Jurisdiction
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Bishops are elected by the delegates to the Jurisdictional Conferences. These delegates are from each of the Annual Conferences in that jurisdiction. Delegates to the Jurisdictional and General Conferences all come from local UMC churches and are elected as representatives from Annual Conferences. Our Alabama-West Florida Conference is a part of the Southeastern Jurisdiction.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Bishops are assigned by the Jurisdiction to oversee the ministry of a certain area. Our Bishop resides in Montgomery and oversees the UMC of the Alabama West Florida Conference. If there is a violation in our Conference then the Bishop of our Conference guides the process of response based upon the Book of Discipline. If there is a chargeable offense against a member of the Clergy then there is a process of suspension and investigation that takes place. Under the Book of Discipline, each jurisdiction has a College of Bishops. This College of Bishops from each Jurisdiction is responsible for enforcement within their jurisdiction when it concerns a chargeable offense against a Bishop. The reasons Jurisdictions are in place in the UMC and oversee their own areas concerning the election of Bishops became part of our polity in 1939 when the North and South denominations of the Methodist Church merged. Racial fears drove the decision in 1939. You can read more about Jurisdictions by following this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/jurisdictions To read more about the racial history behind Jurisdictions which impacts some of the decisions made today, follow this link: http://gcah.org/history/central-jurisdiction We give thanks that Bishop Graves is enforcing the Book of Discipline in our area. We also give thanks that there are no charges against our Bishop or any members of the clergy in our Annual Conference! The stories that people often share have taken place in other Conferences and other regions of our UMC.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Council of Bishops and the Judicial Council are tasked with rule enforcement in the UMC. They are currently not enforcing the violations to the Book of Discipline.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
First, “Leading with Integrity,” passed 2-1, without amendment. The resolution urges those who intend to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church to recuse themselves from leadership roles in the UMC to move forward in fairness and integrity. It also encourages annual conference boards to develop codes of conduct to manage conflicts of interest. This resolution passed by hand vote.
Second, “Queer Delegates’ Call to Center Justice and Empowerment for LGBTQIA+ People in the UMC.” The resolution urged the Southeastern Jurisdiction to support LGBTQIA+ people, affirm a moratorium on lawsuits and complaints surrounding sexual orientation, not pursue (or resolve in a non-punitive and just manner) complaints against bishops around their sexual orientation or who officiate LGBTQIA+ weddings, and support elections of bishops who uphold this. The resolution was originally ruled out of order because its language seemed to call for the Southeastern Jurisdiction to violate the Book of Discipline, but it passed 2-1, with one amendment changing a word in the resolution from “commit” to “aspire.”
Third, “Resolution in Support of a U.S. Regional Conference,” also passed. This proposal would create the U.S. part of the church as its own regional conference, along with three conferences in Africa, three in Europe, and one in the Philippines. Each regional conference would have the power to create its own rules and standards and adapt the Book of Discipline to the context and opinions of that region. The hand vote was close, so the resolution was called by electronic ballot.
Addendum to Answer #1: As explained in question #2 the purpose of Jurisdictions is to elect Bishops. You can read more about this by following this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/glossary-jurisdictional-conference
Resolutions are passed at most large UMC meetings with a diversity of membership. Resolutions are statement and have no bearing upon the Book of Discipline and have no binding upon the local church or the Annual Conference. To read more about the current stance of the UMC please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality To read a free copy of the Book of Discipline follow this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Opinion
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
On the first page of our Bibles in Genesis, God formed a diverse creation. When we turn to the New Testament, we read stories of Jesus teaching his followers to love neighbors. In Paul’s letters the early church is encouraged to be an inclusive which appreciates people as parts of the “Body of Christ”. Jesus even gave his followers the command in John 13 to “love one another”. As we live in Auburn and move throughout the world we see diversity everywhere we go. Diversity is part of life and resembles the very heart and creativity of God. Diversity is God’s gift and the very strength of the church. Throughout Scripture we are directed to appreciate diversity. For example:
Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
1 Corinthians 12:12-14 – “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.”
As important as diversity is, God’s call for unity echoes throughout Scripture.
Ephesians 4:3-6 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
Romans 15:5-7 – “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.”
And finally, as John Wesley reminded us:
In essentials, unity
In non-essentials, liberty, and
In all things, charity
We feel that diversity is one of our greatest strengths at Auburn UMC! To read more about the gift of diversity in the United Methodist Church we invite you to follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/our-christian-roots-human-beings
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If we are Methodists, we will always uphold the orthodox, traditional beliefs espoused by John Wesley. A UMC membership does not necessarily have to be diverse. By nature, we as individuals are all diverse. We cannot mandate that in a member. Any Christian congregation is inclusive of all people.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The good news is that the UMC is neither changing nor seeking to change the words of Scripture or the Lord’s Prayer, and the latest hymnal revision took place almost 40 years ago in 1989. An individual UMC Christian or local Church may have a unique opinion about matters, but no one person or church speaks for the entire denomination. Information about the United Methodist Church changing sacred texts is simply untrue. The United Methodist Church believes that scripture is the primary source and criterion for Christian doctrine, and we interpret individual texts in light of their place in the Bible as a whole. We also lean upon the legacy of church tradition, reason, experience. To learn more about the Wesleyan Quadrilateral we invite you to visit this website: https://www.umc.org/en/content/glossary-wesleyan-quadrilateral-the The use of Scripture, Tradition, Reason and Experience, help us understand that at one time churches had disagreements about slavery, the sabbath, and women teaching or leading in the church. In these disagreements we were able to remain united in spite of disagreement. In cases where words of a hymn may be clarified a change was made years ago so that people would feel included and part of the church rather than excluded. The last hymnal update occurred in 1989 and there are no plans for a new UMC hymnal. To read more about the United Methodist understanding of Scripture please visit this website: https://www.umc.org/en/content/our-christian-roots-the-bible
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Some of the words of traditional hymns have been changed to include politically correct pronouns and phrases. The hymn “Have Thine Own Way” no longer contains the phrase “whiter than snow” after “wash me just now”. Some UMC congregations, specifically First UMC Birmingham, use the language, Our Father/Mother Who Art in Heaven”, to begin the Lord’s Prayer.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
While that opinion may exist, it is not appropriate to challenge one’s personal opinion or motives in their decision to support disaffiliation. However, whether intentional or not, considerable harm has arisen because of the movement to disaffiliate. Relationships are being damaged, people’s values are being challenged, a split in the church is now likely, and unfortunately misleading stories have been circulated causing harm to people. It is important for all of us on both sides of the issue to remember John Wesley’s words – even if we cannot think alike, may we not love alike? It is also important to recall the emphasis Wesley had on the General Rules to: 1. Do no harm. 2. Do all the good we can. 3. Stay in love with God. To be clear about the tried and true beliefs and special purpose of the United Methodist Church is vital in this season of discernment and a place to begin is this link: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/teaching-the-who-what-and-why-of-the-umc
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
That is an opinion shared by some who feel that going into a Discernment process would further splinter AUMC. AUMC is already splintered. It reflects the larger UMC, which is deeply divided over issues of theology and human sexuality. The Moving Forward group has as its goal to preserve the traditional values of our Wesleyan heritage. The perceived “hurt” could be healed once and for all with the ability to share information to everyone in a formal Discernment period.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We all know that no one can predict the future and within the group of people who choose to “stay UMC”, we give thanks that we are a diverse, “big tent,” church. We who remain part of the UMC will continue to be part of a large connectional church that includes diversity of thinking from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the U.S. For those who might choose for the Book of Discipline to remain the same, comfort is taken that within the United Methodist Church, diversity of thought is not only allowed it is cherished. It is truly unknown whether the UMC Discipline will change in 2024 and no one can predict the future. What is known is that regardless of any change, AUMC itself would make a wedding policy decision concerning church property. Staff Parish Committees would have input and annual consultation concerning the appointment of any pastor. It is also important to note that no pastor would ever be forced to officiate a wedding in which he/she disagrees. To read about the United Methodist understanding of marriage, please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/i-do-how-united-methodists-understand-christian-marriage To read about the UMC stance on sexuality visit this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality To read more about the General Conference and how decisions are made in this worldwide body of believers please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/structure/general-conference
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
All the UMC Bishops in our country have gone on record as stating that the Book of Discipline will be changed at General Conference 2024 regarding human sexuality. It would then be condoning gay clergy and same-sex marriage. An individual would have to decide at that time whether they would have the desire to remain in a denomination with these standards.
Outreach
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
REACH is the Respite ministry which helps so many in our community living with dementia. This ministry began as a United Methodist outreach ministry from First UMC in Montgomery. It is speculative to ask about whether another church would lead such a ministry. A new church with new leadership would have to form and offer more discernment concerning the missions, visions, and values of a newly formed church. It would be unfair to speculate if such a ministry would fit within the goals of another church. It is known that those who helped begin the REACH ministry will lead this level of concern and care in Auburn as United Methodists.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
REACH and other outreach programs should not be affected whether we stay a United Methodist Church, become an independent Methodist Church, or join another Methodist denomination.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the church disaffiliates relationships and partnerships with the important ministries listed above would be severed. The new church would make decisions on whether to reconstruct those relationships. The good news is that at Auburn United Methodist 94 cents of every dollar remains in our local church supporting our Food Pantry, our Choir, our Mission outreach, and the daily operation of our church. Six cents of every dollar goes towards missional giving such as the Wesley Foundation, ARM, Blue Lake, Huntingdon, etc. There is an old chart here that helps one understand the legacy of Connectional Giving that helped support Auburn UMC when we built our Sanctuary so many years ago. Did you know that way back then, apportionment dollars help pay for 25% of the building cost? As UMC’s we believe that our connection is much more than dollars and cents. Our connection is truly about mission and relationships. Our members actually serve on the leadership boards of the vital ministries listed above. In our UMC connection, a portion of every dollar helps support mission and ministry locally and around the world. Furthermore, giving means more than writing a check. We believe in true partnership in ministry! To learn more about where UMC giving goes follow this link: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/churchwide/umcgiving To discover the many ways our dollars help support missions in our local Alabama-West Florida Conference visit this link: https://www.awfumc.org/ministries
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
For outreach ministries, the relationship would be ended as a United Methodist church and would need to be established on its own, depending on our desire to be an independent Methodist church or join another Methodist denomination. All of the outreach ministries of the UMC (UMCOR, Blue Lake, ARM, Huntington, Emmaus, etc.) do not have to be “kicked to the curb,” as these ministries would be delighted to have the financial support of the church, regardless of the denominational affiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
See answers to question #2.
Paragraph 2553
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
As described in Answer #2, Paragraph 2553 allows for disaffiliation only for reasons of conscience regarding the issue of human sexuality. While many other issues continue to be raised, they are not valid reasons to disaffiliate from the UMC. We give thanks that “the United Methodist Church affirms that all people are of sacred worth and are equally valuable in the sight of God. It is committed to be in ministry with all people. The Church “implores families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends.” To read more about the UMC current stance on homosexuality please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Paragraph 2553 states, “Because of the current, deep conflict within the UMC around issues of human sexuality, a local church shall have a limited right under the provisions of this paragraph, to disaffiliate from the denomination for reasons of conscience regarding a change in the requirements and provisions of the Book of Discipline related to the practice of homosexuality or the ordination or marriage of self-avowed practicing homosexuals as resolved and adopted by the 2019 General Conference, or the actions or inactions of its annual conference related to these issues.” This paragraph in the Book of Discipline is the only exit plan for a church wishing to disaffiliate. The issue of human sexuality is a presenting symptom of the much more important issues of theology regarding the authority and supremacy of Holy Scripture.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Local churches have been able to leave the denomination since the time of John Wesley, and while paragraph 2549 specifically deals with the closure of church property, not the transfer of it, a proposal will be presented at Alabama West Florida Annual Conference in June 2023, to allow the financial terms of disaffiliation of Paragraph 2553 (which states that a church that votes to disaffiliate may exit with its property) may be applied to Paragraph 2549 for disaffiliation of a church after General Conference in May of 2024. Currently, Paragraph 2553 is the only approved path for disaffiliation under the current Book of Discipline. This exit opportunity expires on December 31,2023. A thorough explanation of the “wait and see” option and paragraph 2549 can be found here: www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17224481
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
No, it is a paragraph in the Book of Discipline outlining how a local church can be closed. It is currently being suggested by some annual conferences as an alternate path to be used after Paragraph 2553 expires on 12/31/23. There are many unknowns concerning this suggested path, including its provisions and its viability. It is a risk to predict that it can be a path. Those who wish to disaffiliate are not depending on its unknown future.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Local churches have been able to leave the denomination since the time of John Wesley. Under “reasons of conscience” paragraph 2553 was approved at the 2019 General Conference as an additional path for disaffiliation under the current Book of Discipline. This exit opportunity expires on December 31,2023. However, a proposal will be presented at Alabama West Florida Annual Conference in June 2023, to allow the financial terms of disaffiliation of Paragraph 2553 (which states that a church that votes to disaffiliate may exit with its property) to be applied to Paragraph 2549 for disaffiliation of a church after General Conference in May of 2024. A thorough explanation of the “wait and see” option and paragraph 2549 can be found here: www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17224481
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The only guaranteed exit plan for disaffiliation is Paragraph 2553 which expires on 12/31/23. This provision was written and voted on at the Special General Conference 2019 and is included in the Book of Discipline. It outlines the ability of a local church to leave the UMC with its property by paying an exit fee.
See answers to #3.
See answers to #3.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The questioner is correct in that Paragraph 2553 as written allows for disaffiliation only for reasons of conscience related to human sexuality. Those wishing to disaffiliate are basing their opinion based upon speculation and fear as to what might happen in the future. Speculation of a change in the Book of Discipline is not an allowable reason for disaffiliation and fear should never drive a decision of this magnitude. As our Bishop has stated, disaffiliation is “not a business deal”. To read more about the harm created by those desperate to disaffiliate follow this link: https://www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/a-word-from-bishop-graves-this-is-not-a-business-deal-17261468
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
We are having this discussion because there are currently many violations of the UMC Book of Discipline including ordaining Bishops and clergy who are self-avowed, practicing homosexuals married to their same-partner, as well as marriages that have been performed by UMC clergy of same-sex couples in the church. Paragraph 2553 was written at the Special General Conference of the UMC in 2019, when it appeared that the progressive viewpoint would be leaving the denomination. The Traditional Plan had just been voted on, which upheld the language in the current Book of Discipline.
All Bishops in the UMC, in our country, have stated that the BOD language prohibiting these two issues will be changed at the upcoming General Conference 2024.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Paragraph 2553 of the Book of Discipline as stated allows for a limited right to disaffiliate for reasons of conscience regarding human sexuality. Many congregations are using other reasons for pursuing disaffiliation. The Judicial Council has ruled that how the provision is actualized is up to the annual conferences. The Alabama West Florida Conference is not investigating the reasons a church is seeking disaffiliation. It is then left to each individual’s conscience as to whether or not they follow the discipline. This is where the difference of opinion comes in – If an individual does not agree with the Book of Discipline’s wording regarding human sexuality, a vote to disaffiliate is appropriate. However, if you want to disaffiliate for another reason, the vote would be outside the Book of Discipline and not appropriate. Since the AWFC is not pursuing the reason for the vote, it is then left to each individual’s conscience as to whether or not to follow the discipline. We give thanks that Bishop Graves has pointed out the importance of individuals having integrity concerning one’s conscience in this recent article: https://www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/a-word-from-bishop-graves-this-is-not-a-business-deal-17261468
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
In 2022, the Judicial Council of the UMC ruled that a church has ONLY to state that it wishes to disaffiliate for REASONS OF CONSCIENCE. The church does not have to elaborate on these reasons.
The AWFC Bishop and Board of Trustees have upheld this Judicial Council ruling and have applied it to the approximately 200+ churches in our conference, who have already voted to disaffiliate. This means that we have a limited right (for reasons of conscience due to the current deep conflict in the UMC) to disaffiliate because the 12 members of our Annual Conference Board of Trustees and our Bishop have approved what the Judicial Council has ruled.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
There have been no changes in our United Methodist doctrine regarding the issue of human sexuality. The Book of Discipline is clear that LGBTQ individuals are not eligible for ordination and that pastors are not allowed to perform same sex marriages. While there is disagreement on this the Alabama West Florida has held firm that the Book of Discipline is to be strictly followed. To read about the current stance of the United Methodist Church please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
We are having this discussion because there are currently many violations of the UMC Book of Discipline having to do with ordaining Bishops and clergy who are self-avowed, practicing homosexuals married to their same-partner, as well as marriages that have been performed by UMC clergy of same-sex couples in the church. All Bishops in the UMC in our country have stated that the Book of Discipline language prohibiting these two issues will be changed at the upcoming General Conference in 2024. This is absolutely not about whether LGBTQ individuals should be a part of our church or any church. This language has been in the BOD since 1972 and we have never turned away or not included anyone in the life of our church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
There is no issue in the current Book of Discipline driving the movement to disaffiliate. Rather it is fear of changes in the Discipline in the future. To read more about the current stance of the UMC please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
See answers to questions #6 and #8
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Currently, Paragraph 2553 is the only approved path for disaffiliation under the current Book of Discipline. This exit opportunity expires on December 31,2023. However, a proposal will be presented at Alabama West Florida Annual Conference in June 2023, to allow the financial terms of disaffiliation of Paragraph 2553 (which states that a church that votes to disaffiliate may exit with its property) to be applied to Paragraph 2549 for disaffiliation of a church after General Conference in May of 2024. A thorough explanation of the “wait and see” option and paragraph 2549 can be found here: www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17224481 To read more about the current stance of the UMC please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The urgency to disaffiliate stems from the expiration date of Paragraph 2553 which expires on 12/31/23. After that date, there is no guaranteed exit path for a church to leave the denomination with its property intact. Prolonging the wait, when the impasse has already been declared, will only cause more harm.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The payment for disaffiliation includes transfer of the property from AUMC to another church, unfunded pension liabilities and one year of apportionments (for some churches it is two years but AUMC is up to date on paying apportionments). Additional costs will be incurred to affect the change such as legal and accounting fees, additional costs of insurance as a stand-alone entity, recruiting of pastors and staff, development of human resource policies and procedures, etc. This will be coupled with a reduction in giving when/if those who wish to stay UMC leave the church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Please look at #13 question and answer. The cost for our church to disaffiliate is $1,208,339.19 to retain its property and hold the deed.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
While property and money are openly talked about as reasons for disaffiliation the only approved reason for disaffiliation under the Book of Discipline is “reasons of conscience regarding human sexuality”.
Fear of changes in the Book of Discipline seems to be the reason for the perceived urgency in the process. Currently, Paragraph 2553 is the only approved path for disaffiliation under the current Book of Discipline. This exit opportunity expires on December 31,2023. However, a proposal will be presented at Alabama West Florida Annual Conference in June 2023, to allow the financial terms of disaffiliation of Paragraph 2553 (which states that a church that votes to disaffiliate may exit with its property) to be applied to Paragraph 2549 for disaffiliation of a church after General Conference in May of 2024. A thorough explanation of the “wait and see” option and paragraph 2549 can be found here: www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17224481 The good news is the UMC will continue with the values of grace for all. You can read about the values that have made AUMC strong by following these links:
https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
https://www.umc.org/en/how-we-serve/we-are-disciples
https://www.umc.org/en/content/united-methodist-sacraments-rites-and-rituals
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
See answers to questions #3 and #10
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Paragraph 2553 follows:
¶ 2553. Disaffiliation of a Local Church Over Issues Related to Human Sexuality—
1. Basis– Because of the current deep conflict within The United Methodist Church around issues of human sexuality, a local church shall have a limited right, under the provisions of this paragraph, to disaffiliate from the denomination for reasons of conscience regarding a change in the requirements and provisions of the Book of Discipline related to the practice of homosexuality or the ordination or marriage of self-avowed practicing homosexuals as resolved and adopted by the 2019 General Conference, or the actions or inactions of its annual conference related to these issues which follow.
The implication of paragraph 2553 is that if 2/3 of the membership of AUMC disagree with the requirements and provision of the Book of Discipline regarding this issue, disaffiliation is an allowable path. The Trust Clause is a true gift of our heritage as Methodists. The Trust Clause is one of those distinctions of our church which connects us to other Christians around the world. To read more about this relationship of Trust we invite you to follow this link: https://www.gcfa.org/newsletter/2020/march/02/understanding-the-umc-trust-clause/
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
See answer to #1. If a church decides to disaffiliate, members who wish to remain in the UMC can do so. There will be a new UMC church planted in our area starting May 14, 2023 and Grace United Methodist Church is planning to stay a United Methodist Church. If a minister decides to remain in the UMC, but the church where he is appointed chooses to disaffiliate from the UMC, the Annual Conference cabinet will seek a new appointment for them; they can retire; or they can seek an administrative post in the UMC.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Paragraph 2549 specifically deals with the closure of church property, not the transfer of it. The proposal will be presented at Alabama West Florida Annual Conference in June 2023, that the financial terms of disaffiliation of Paragraph 2553 (which states that a church that votes to disaffiliate may exit with its property) may be applied to Paragraph 2549 for disaffiliation of a church after General Conference in May of 2024. Currently, Paragraph 2553 is the only approved path for disaffiliation under the Book of Discipline. This exit opportunity expires on December 31, 2023. We are grateful that an extension of grace is being proposed by our Conference Board of Trustees. You can read more about this by following this link: https://www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17224481
Process
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We have followed a process in the same manner as many United Methodist Churches in our Conference. As you may recall from the Information Session held on March 20, 2023, it was shared that the decision-making in the United Methodist Church is spelled out in the Book of Discipline.
Paragraph 252.1 The church council (or Administrative Board) shall provide for planning and implementing a program of nurture, outreach, witness, and resources in the local church. It shall also provide for the administration of its organization and temporal life. It shall envision, plan, implement, and annually evaluate the mission and ministry of the church. The church council shall be amenable to and function as the administrative agency of the charge conference (¶ 244).
The Church council for AUMC is the Administrative Board (“AB”). The AB approved a plan similar to the process that disaffiliating and non-disaffiliating churches have and are using. In the fall of 2022 the Administrative Board approved established a Listening and Learning Task Force for the purpose of identifying and researching the issues surrounding disaffiliation in the United Methodist Church and how it relates to Auburn UMC. The process was “fast tracked” by the AB in order to speed up the process of their research and report. In February of 2023 the AB asked the Listening and Learning Task Force to hold a church-wide information meeting within one month and report back to the AB within seven days. The request of the AB has been completed with a report submitted to the AB on March 30, 2023.
The Administrative Board will meet and make a decision as to whether to proceed with a Discernment Process, which may lead to a vote. The good news is that the process of Auburn UMC reflects the process used by many United Methodist churches in our AWF Conference and is in accordance with the Book of Discipline. To understand more about our Administrative Board and how United Methodist’s make decisions please follow this link: https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/chair-of-church-leadership-team-administrative-council For a free copy of the United Methodist Book of Discipline which outlines our structure of decision making please follow this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
In order for the church to get to a vote our Pastor (Cory) or the Administrative Board has to request a town hall meeting with the district superintendent. Cory has not been willing to do that but instead formed the Listening and Learning Task force to research the issue in our church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Yes, this is a process involving the laity and lay leadership of the church. Auburn UMC is structured in the manner defined by the UMC Book of Discipline. The clergy are members of the Annual Conference appointed to serve the local church. Some feel that clergy should remain neutral in their opinions. To understand our structure as a church you may wish to read a free copy of the Book of Discipline by following this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Yes the clergy are not members of the church and should be neutral to the issue.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The process being used by the Administrative Board is in agreement with UMC polity and is the same as the process being used by many other churches in our Alabama West Florida Conference. Often when a pastor is in favor of disaffiliating and plans to turn in his/her credentials, by-passes the process the evaluation of local church leadership in order to enter the official Discernment process. Our pastor(s) may have strong feelings regarding a Discernment decision, and they are listening to the Lay Leadership of our church, allowing the process to unfold through the proper process of the Administrative Board.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Other churches who have had an “easy process” of qualifying for Discernment have a Leadership Council/Administrative Board who recommend Discernment and a pastor who has stayed neutral regarding disaffiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the Administrative Board votes to enter a Discernment process and later a vote to disaffiliate is reached from a Church Conference, decisions would need to be made regarding this financial matter. We have received news that some churches are fundraising within their membership to pay the costs. The good news is that if we remain United Methodist and continue in our mission there would be no disaffiliation, meaning there would be no cost!
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If we as a church voted to disaffiliate from the larger denomination, there would be several options to consider regarding the payment to disaffiliate. In many churches across our conference, there are donors who have financed the fee; other churches have taken out a loan; still other churches have had members who privately paid the fee.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Administrative Board now has the task of determining if we enter into Formal Discernment. If we do, the vote must be taken in a timely manner to meet the November deadline for disaffiliation documentation due to the conference.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Listening and Learning task force was established by the Administrative Board who operate within their authority under the Discipline. (¶ 244). While we are not listed in the guidelines, the Admin Board is a vital part of the decision-making structure of the United Methodist Church. This link explains the importance of the Administrative Board and their decisions for our church:
https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/chair-of-church-leadership-team-administrative-council
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
No. The Listening and Learning Task Force is not listed in the AWFC guidelines for Disaffiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Listening and Learning Task Force is sharing much of the information received from many members of AUMC. We also feel that we are blessed to be a part of a diverse church that is supported by members with many opinions. It takes a super majority of members to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church and it will be up to the Administrative Board to make the decision as to whether to enter the Discernment process. It is their responsibility to discern what is best for AUMC. Many churches have found that unless the Board is certain that a 67% vote could be obtained, it is better to remain as united as possible rather than enter a divisive process. The AUMC Administrative Board is faced with a challenging decision. We invite you to follow this link which may help you understand this important process: https://www.gcfa.org/newsletter/2020/march/02/understanding-the-umc-trust-clause/
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The requirement for the vote to disaffiliate to pass is 2/3 of all professing members present at the vote. The decision on whether to have a Discernment period is not dependent on a prediction of what a future vote on disaffiliation would possibly be. A formal Discernment period gives all members the opportunity to be fully educated and informed of all issues so that they can then be equipped to make a decision based on truth and accuracy on the day of the vote.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If the church votes to disaffiliate, the would go through another discernment phase in order to decide the direction and future of the church. The Discernment process allows for information regarding the congregational or independent options and so after the disaffiliation vote, the church members would choose an option best for this congregation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
As noted previously, there is no change in doctrine in the UMC and no changes are anticipated. Making assumptions and predictions about what might happen is operating out of fear. We know that in God’s word, The Holy Bible, we read again and again the phrase, “Do not be afraid.” Promoting untruths that the Bible is changing, and the Lord’s Prayer is changing is untrue and unhelpful. The good news is that AUMC is a traditional United Methodist church with an open communion table for all. We love our emphasis on God’s grace, salvation through Jesus Christ, and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Our mission is to “Love God, Love neighbors, and Make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.” This will continue for all who long to remain United Methodists in Auburn. For more information about our unchanging theology and doctrine please follow these links:
1. https://www.umc.org/en/content/an-open-table-how-united-methodists-understand-communion
2. https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7736/united-methodists-and-grace
3. https://www.umc.org/en/content/renewing-waters-how-united-methodists-understand-baptism
4. https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/teaching-the-who-what-and-why-of-the-umc
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The concern for disaffiliation is regarding trust of our current UMC leadership in disregarding the current Book of Discipline. The concern also lies in the fact that there are 480 United Methodist churches left in our Alabama West Florida Conference. As of 5/7/2023, 193 of those will disaffiliate. This leaves 287 churches in the AWFC. If even just 50 more vote to disaffiliate in November, that would only leave 237, so another concern is the sudden drop in pastors in the AWFC that can be appointed to AUMC. Finally, there is concern that with the 2024 General Conference in April 2024, the BOD will change, too.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Bishop, DS and pastors of the Alabama West Florida Conference have not refused to allow the Discernment process to be started as stated under question #1 of this section. We are following an important process that is respectful of everyone. We are grateful for your question and your prayers.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The BOD does not specify guidelines for Discernment. Each Annual Conference sets its own guidelines. Only a local pastor guides their local church into Discernment or not
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
This is not the case in the Alabama-West Florida Conference. If a Bishop believes it is in the best interest of their conference it is within the polity of our UMC denomination to allow that decision to be made. No “halts” have been called in the Alabama West Florida Conference. Our Bishop has been very helpful as churches have spent time weighing the best options for their future. You can read about the information shared by Bishop Graves by following this link: https://www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17299004
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
A Bishop is given oversight in each Annual Conference to make decisions they would like to make regarding the conference.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
That is not the case. All members in the United Methodist Church are equal, therefore if a Church Conference is held all votes carry the same weight. For more information about this topic, you may follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/our-christian-roots-the-church
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
All professing members of a local church have an equal vote in the decisions made.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
After review by the Administrative Board, if a decision is made to enter Discernment the steps would be as follows:
Step1: Access your current disaffiliation figure through the local church dashboard at http://www.awfumc.org/dashboard. (Note: our current disaffiliation figure is $1,208,339.19)
Step 2: Pastor contacts their district superintendent (DS) to schedule a Town Hall meeting. This meeting is to address questions the entire congregation may have about disaffiliation, or the process involved. No vote is taken at a Town Hall meeting.
Step 3: If disaffiliation is the discerned path, an impact of disaffiliation assessment can be conducted to determine any missional, economic, and ministry impact on the community as a result of a church’s disaffiliation.
Step 4: After a time of prayerful discernment, and with proper notification to church members that is a minimum of 10 days including 2 Sundays, the local church may schedule, in coordination with the DS, a Church Conference. The district superintendent presides. A vote to disaffiliate can only be approved under the stipulations set forth in paragraph 2553 and the resolution must be passed by a 2/3 vote of the membership present at the conference. No write-in ballots are allowed. Required documentation must be provided.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
See steps #1-4 listed above for the steps in the Discernment process.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Yes, all were checked against the membership roll of the church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If this were to happen, you can choose to move to another UMC church or the Conference or you can remain as a member of Auburn Methodist.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
A No vote for discernment essentially means you have enough information to know that you would like for AUMC to remain part of the United Methodist Church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
A “No” vote for Discernment means you don’t want to go through the process of gathering information to get to a vote for Disaffiliation. Discernment is not disaffiliation. The vote to disaffiliate comes at the end of the Discernment process.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Yes. The Administrative Board received a report from the Listening and Learning committee on 3/30/23 and they will vote to decide if we enter Formal Discernment.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Yes. A motion will be presented at the Administrative Board meeting to vote “yes/no” for Formal Discernment.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If the Administrative Board votes for us to enter Formal Discernment, we will enter the Discernment period and learn all the facts and vote concerning disaffiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
No plans have been made regarding the charge conference. If the Administrative Board makes a decision to enter Discernment, they will contact the DS to request the required meeting. Working with the DS, the logistics would be determined.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
We don’t know of any plans of conducting a charge conference. Our pastor is the only one who can call the District Superintendent to request a Town Hall meeting which begins the process.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Grace United Methodist Church, located on Glenn Avenue, is going to stay a United Methodist Church. In addition, a new UMC will start in the Opelika area on 5/14/2023. Finally, Bishop Graves has stated that if AUMC votes to disaffiliate, just as Cornerstone and Embrace did in Auburn, then they would possibly plant/start another UMC in the Auburn area. Cory Smith our current Senior Pastor plans to remain a United Methodist pastor and live in Auburn as he appointed to serve this community by Bishop Graves. The good news is that there is and will be an Auburn United Methodist Church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Grace United Methodist Church, located on Glenn Avenue, is going to stay a United Methodist Church in Auburn. In addition, an Opelika New Church Start will start in the Opelika area on 5/14/2023. (See article referencing the new church start: https://www.awfumc.org/newsdetail/17395016) Finally, Bishop Graves has stated that if AUMC votes to disaffiliate, like Cornerstone, Trinity, First Methodist Opelika, and Embrace, then the UMC would plant an Auburn New Church Start (as they are in Opelika.)
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The vote for a Church Conference has to be in person and every effort can be made to get people to the church at that time.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
After review by the Administrative Board, if a decision is made to enter Discernment the steps would be as follows:
Step1: Access your current disaffiliation figure through the local church dashboard at http://www.awfumc.org/dashboard. (Note: our current disaffiliation figure is $1,208,339.19)
Step 2: Pastor contacts their district superintendent (DS) to schedule a Town Hall meeting. This meeting is to address questions the entire congregation may have about disaffiliation or the process involved. No vote is taken at a Town Hall meeting.
Step 3: If disaffiliation is the discerned path, an impact of disaffiliation assessment can be conducted to determine any missional, economic, and ministry impact on the community as a result of a church’s disaffiliation.
Step 4: After a time of prayerful discernment, and with proper notification to church members that is a minimum of 10 days including 2 Sundays, the local church may schedule, in coordination with the DS, a Church Conference. The district superintendent presides. A vote to disaffiliate can only be approved under the stipulations set forth in paragraph 2553 and the resolution must be passed by a 2/3 vote of the membership present at the conference. No write-in ballots are allowed. Required documentation must be provided.
The perceived urgency for a decision is because Paragraph 2553 is scheduled to sunset on December 31, 2023. The Bishop however, has proposed a plan to allow churches to use a different paragraph of the Discipline (2549) if a church chooses to disaffiliate after the deadline. This plan has been approved by the Conference Board of Trustees.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The sense of urgency for the process to begin is because the only guaranteed exit path is Paragraph 2553 which will expire on December 31, 2023, and there are many steps to complete before our church can be approved for disaffiliation by November 12, 2023. The Bishop’s offer to implement Para. 2549 is not guaranteed and has not been approved by the conference Board of Trustees. They are scheduled to discuss this at Annual Conference in June 2023. Then, it will have to be ruled on and approved at General Conference in April 2024.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If the Administrative Board votes for us to enter Formal Discernment, we will enter the Discernment period and learn all the facts and vote concerning disaffiliation. If/When the Administrative Board votes to enter Formal Discernment then our Senior Pastor, Cory Smith, will inform our District Superintendent, Dr. Jeff Wilson, and the process of Formal Discernment will be scheduled.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Book of Discipline, Paragraph 252.1 states the church council shall provide for planning and implementing a program of nurture, outreach, witness, and resources in the local church. It shall also provide for the administration of its organization and temporal life. It shall envision, plan, implement, and annually evaluate the mission and ministry of the church. The church council shall be amenable to and function as the administrative agency of the charge conference (¶ 244).
The Church council for AUMC is the Administrative Board (“AB”). The AB approved a plan (similar to what other disaffiliating and non-disaffiliating churches have and are using) that established a Listening and Learning Task Force for the purpose of identifying and researching the issues surrounding disaffiliation. The process was interrupted by the Administrative Board who in order to speed up the process asked the Listening and Learning Task Force to hold a whole church meeting within one month and report back to the AB within seven days. The request of the AB has been completed with a report submitted to the AB on March 30, 2023.
The next step will be for the Administrative Board to meet and make a decision as to whether AUMC will enter the Discernment period.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Administrative Board or a Listening and Learning committee are not listed in the guidelines. Below are the guidelines of the Alabama West Florida Conference for the disaffiliation process: Step1 Access your current disaffiliation figure through the local church dashboard at http://www.awfumc.org/dashboard. (Note: our current disaffiliation figure is $1,208,339.19) Step 2 Pastor contacts their district superintendent (DS) to schedule a Town Hall meeting. This meeting is to address questions the entire congregation may have about disaffiliation, or the process involved. No vote is taken at a Town Hall meeting. Step 3 If disaffiliation is the discerned path, an impact of disaffiliation assessment can be conducted to determine any missional, economic, and ministry impact on the community as a result of a church’s disaffiliation. Step 4 After a time of prayerful discernment, and with proper notification to church members that is a minimum of 10 days including 2 Sundays, the local church may schedule, in coordination with the DS, a Church Conference. The district superintendent presides. A vote to disaffiliate can only be approved under the stipulations set forth in paragraph 2553 and the resolution must be passed by a 2/3 vote of the membership present at the conference. No write-in ballots are allowed. Required documentation must be provided to the DS.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The L&L Task Force has completed their duty to report to the Administrative Board. The Task Force report can be found on our church website. The L&L Task Force is no longer meeting and they don’t have the authority to call for a vote. This matter will not be taken up by our Administrative Board as explained in Question #1, #23, and #25
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
See response to questions #1 and #23 for a review of the process. There have been no deviations from the process.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Please note the answer to #2 in Question #25.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
There is no requirement to have a vote on disaffiliation nor are there any requirements that AUMC has not met. For information given from our Bishop about this process you may be interested to follow this link: https://www.awfumc.org/files/websites/www/BDG+Why+I+Love+Being+a+UM.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
A vote to disaffiliate is not a requirement. There are many churches who are not entering into discernment and will not vote. The requirement of the AWF conference to enter into Discernment is for the Pastor to request a Town Hall meeting. AUMC has not made a formal request of the DS to have a Town Hall and enter into Discernment.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
At this point there has been no willingness or conversation from those seeking to disaffiliate to find a compromise.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The situation in this Arkansas church is very different from our situation. That church is located on 3 different, separate campuses and they were able to locate each group on a separate piece of property. We do not have that option.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We are grateful that we have held conversations during the church and Sunday School hour in the summer of 2022. Over 400 people met in individual small groups during the Fall of 2022. In the winter and spring of 2023 our Listening and Learning Task Force has met and an Informational Meeting was held in March of 2023. In accordance with the Book of Discipline, AUMC will meet to discuss discernment even more if that is the path chosen by the Administrative Board. For information about your question and the process involved please read the responses shared on questions: #1, #23, and #25.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The first step to enter Discernment is for the Pastor to call the District Superintendent to schedule a Town Hall meeting. Right now, the only meeting held to discuss Discernment was the informational meeting on 3/20/23. Our pastors and Church Administrator have the control over who can and can not meet in the church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We have followed a process in the same manner as many United Methodist Churches in our Conference. As you may recall from the Information Session held on March 20, 2023, it was shared that the decision-making in the United Methodist Church is spelled out in the Book of Discipline. In this case, the decision is made by the Administrative Board. This Board is appointed by a team of people within the church to represent the church, making what they believe to be the best decisions for the church.
Paragraph 252.1 The church council (or Administrative Board) shall provide for planning and implementing a program of nurture, outreach, witness, and resources in the local church. It shall also provide for the administration of its organization and temporal life. It shall envision, plan, implement, and annually evaluate the mission and ministry of the church. The church council shall be amenable to and function as the administrative agency of the charge conference (¶ 244).
The Church council for AUMC is the Administrative Board (“AB”). The AB approved a plan similar to the process that disaffiliating and non-disaffiliating churches have and are using. In the fall of 2022 the Administrative Board approved established a Listening and Learning Task Force for the purpose of identifying and researching the issues surrounding disaffiliation in the United Methodist Church and how it relates to Auburn UMC. The process was “fast tracked” by the AB in order to speed up the process of their research and report. In February of 2023 the AB asked the Listening and Learning Task Force to hold a church-wide information meeting within one month and report back to the AB within seven days. The request of the AB has been completed with a report submitted to the AB on March 30, 2023.
The Administrative Board will meet and make a decision as to whether to proceed with a Discernment Process, which may lead to a vote. The good news is that the process of Auburn UMC reflects the process used by many United Methodist churches in our AWF Conference and is in accordance with the Book of Discipline. To understand more about our Administrative Board and how United Methodist’s make decisions please follow this link: https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/chair-of-church-leadership-team-administrative-council For a free copy of the United Methodist Book of Discipline which outlines our structure of decision making please follow this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
There is no justification. The process Cory presented to the Administrative Board in October was to approve a Listening and Learning Task Force to report back to the Administrative Board. Then, the Administrative Board will decide if we enter into Discernment. There are 57 voting members of the Administrative Board. If they vote for us to go into Discernment, then all church members will have a vote to determine the future of our church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We give thanks that AUMC has been following a logical decision-making process which has been followed by many churches (disaffiliating and those staying UMC). This process is designed to review all pertinent facts and prepare for the best decision to be made.
We have followed a process in the same manner as many United Methodist Churches in our Conference. As you may recall from the Information Session held on March 20, 2023, it was shared that the decision-making in the United Methodist Church is spelled out in the Book of Discipline.
Paragraph 252.1 The church council (or Administrative Board) shall provide for planning and implementing a program of nurture, outreach, witness, and resources in the local church. It shall also provide for the administration of its organization and temporal life. It shall envision, plan, implement, and annually evaluate the mission and ministry of the church. The church council shall be amenable to and function as the administrative agency of the charge conference (¶ 244).
The Church council for AUMC is the Administrative Board (“AB”). The AB approved a plan similar to the process that disaffiliating and non-disaffiliating churches have and are using. In the fall of 2022 the Administrative Board approved established a Listening and Learning Task Force for the purpose of identifying and researching the issues surrounding disaffiliation in the United Methodist Church and how it relates to Auburn UMC. The process was “fast tracked” by the AB in order to speed up the process of their research and report. In February of 2023 the AB asked the Listening and Learning Task Force to hold a church-wide information meeting within one month and report back to the AB within seven days. The request of the AB has been completed with a report submitted to the AB on March 30, 2023.
The Administrative Board will meet and make a decision as to whether to proceed with a Discernment Process, which may lead to a vote. The good news is that the process of Auburn UMC reflects the process used by many United Methodist churches in our AWF Conference and is in accordance with the Book of Discipline. To understand more about our Administrative Board and how United Methodist’s make decisions please follow this link: https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/chair-of-church-leadership-team-administrative-council For a free copy of the United Methodist Book of Discipline which outlines our structure of decision making please follow this link: https://www.ctcumc.org/files/fileshare/2016-book-of-discipline.pdf
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
For other churches in the area, the Pastor and the Leadership Board/Administrative Board members allowed the congregation to enter the formal Discernment process to make the decision for their church. The Listening and Learning Task Force conducted a survey where 61% of members present wanted to enter into the Formal Discernment process. The next step is for the Administrative Board to approve for our church to enter into the Formal Discernment process and take a vote for Disaffiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
This is our prayer! At this point there has been no willingness from those seeking to disaffiliate to find a compromise. Perhaps those attempts could be considered when the Administrative Board considers how AUMC should move forward. Thank you for your prayers as we seek to continue in our mission to “Love God, Love Neighbors, and make Passionate followers of Jesus.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Unfortunately, our church is divided on these fundamental issues because the larger UMC denomination has been unable to reach agreement on how to go forward and so the inevitable impasse has occurred. Because the Protocol of Separation, which would have given us an amicable plan to separate wasn’t used, we have been forced to vote on this decision on a local level in each church. This is painful. The only healing that can happen is for each group to go its own way, since the beliefs in each group stands in opposition to each other.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Please see question #21 for this answer.
Property
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
This is a very good question. We know that to remain United Methodist would mean that our church would continue toward our vision to be “A church community, helping people follow Jesus, and love one another!” To simply stay UMC means that the AUMC that you love and appreciate would remain the same. Our structure, beliefs, outreach and mission to “Love God, love neighbors, and make passionate followers of Jesus” would remain unchanged. To leave the United Methodist Church would mean that the congregation would need to decide a new focus, mission, vision, and values. It would mean that the church would need to process how to choose a new denomination or become independent in mission. Decisions of doctrine would need to be made as well as choices of how to receive new pastors, staff and church leadership. Questions of structure and church governance would need to be addressed. The current name of the church as well as the focus of the church would all be on the table for negotiation should the church choose to disaffiliate.
The current arrangement enables the church to be in a relationship of trust with congregations around the world. This structure of trust enables us to quickly respond to disasters and support other UMC mission agencies such as the Wesley Foundation, Huntingdon College, and Blue Lake Camp. Keeping our property in “Trust” enables our church to have the the ability to continue our form of self-governance as well as work within a covenant relationship with our Bishop and other UMC churches. John Wesley established the form of “Trust” in 1750s. Our Discipline as a church since 1784 has allowed space for churches to leave the denomination and it will continue to do so after Paragraph 2553 ends.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The current arrangement of keeping property in “Trust” ties the Church to a denomination that limits options for self-governance. This was Wesley’s way of controlling “rogue” churches. He never contemplated wholesale changes in Methodism. Without this Paragraph 2553 option, we would have to stay with the UMC regardless of their change in beliefs. Any option that we would take as a Church would leave our property in our name. That would ensure our ability to survive and thrive.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Social media has been replete with comments regarding the value of the property vs the amount that would have to be paid to disaffiliate. It would be inappropriate for us to speculate on the motives of those wanting to leave the UMC in order to acquire the property. However, acquisition of the property does not qualify under Paragraph 2553 of the Book of Discipline as a reason for disaffiliation.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Owning our buildings and property is part of the process of disaffiliation. Members of the AUMC Moving Forward group in favor of Disaffiliation feel that owning our buildings is a benefit of disaffiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
While it would be inappropriate for us to speculate on the motives of those wanting to acquire the property, we know that much has been made of the value of the property vs the amount that would have to be paid for it. If AUMC disaffiliates from the UMC many decisions must be made regarding the type of entity the church will be and ownership and control of the property, John Wesley incorporated the Trust clause into the Methodist discipline exactly for this reason. With the deed for the property held in trust, there is no fear of loss of property based on individual motives. To read about the wisdom of the Trust Clause we invite you to follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-united-methodist-trust-clause
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
This is not the case. The “faithful members supporting disaffiliation” are not a cover for real estate brokers. The Church as a whole would decide how to manage our real estate holdings and would control all decisions.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Currently, AUMC owns our property, and we hold this property in a relationship of trust with the UMC church. We enjoy a rich heritage of sharing this property as a missional outpost for things like the Food Pantry, the creation of Auburn University, the point of contact for UMCOR (The United Methodist Committee on Relief) during the devasting 2019 Tornados. We are currently structured to see property as a form of sacred stewardship through our United Methodist heritage. Those who long for our church to remain a part of the UMC see our property as not on a legacy but as a springboard for our mission to “Love God, Love Neighbors, and make passionate followers of Jesus.” The recent purchase of property was overwhelmingly approved by the leadership of AUMC. We have heard no one advocate for the selling of property.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Based upon the decline in the UMC, some members have speculated that selling off some property would help the UMC if things got worse. There is no evidence of this thinking in the UMC. The members of AUMC recently approved buying more property to serve our mission of spreading the love of Jesus Christ. No one in the local Church has advocated selling any Church property.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Any local church that votes to disaffiliate using Paragraph 2553 will gain complete ownership of its church property after paying the designated exit fee. Our exit fee is $1,208,339.19. If the Church decides to stay UMC, the AUMC property would continue to be owned by AUMC, managed by AUMC, and held in a relationship of trust with the United Methodist Church.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Any local church that votes to disaffiliate using Paragraph 2553 will gain complete ownership of its church property after paying the designated exit fee. Our exit fee is $1,208,339.19. If the Church decides to stay UMC, AUMC would continue to manage the property and the property would be held in a relationship of trust with the United Methodist Church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The property would only yield income if it were sold. While certainly possible it is not likely that the property of “our ancestors” would ever be sold. The tithes that have been collected through the years were not made as an investment in property but rather as an investment in making disciples for the transformation of the world. It is also true that the sanctuary of AUMC was built in part with monies from the Conference. In 1955 Apportionment Dollars were given to our church to serve in partnership with the Auburn Wesley Foundation as an outreach. These dollars from the denomination help fund 25% of the building costs. It is this kind of partnership and connection that make us strong as a denomination. In a world that is divisive, we see unity as an important component of what it means to be United Methodist. To understand more about our connection as it relates to property we invite you to follow this link: https://www.gcfa.org/newsletter/2020/march/02/understanding-the-umc-trust-clause/
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
It is true that AUMC members have paid for the Church property and buildings over many generations. Most, if not all members did not know until recently that the local church did not own the property. The UMC can close churches or sell property because they own the land. The greatest security for our Church’s long-term survival would be to own our property and decide as a congregation on how best to use it to serve God.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The good news is that as part of the United Methodist Church we have resources through our connection as United Methodist that may not exist in other denominations. We cannot speak to what might take place should the church disaffiliate and fail. We have good information about the current status of our Trust Clause as United Methodists that you may find comforting and inspiring. We invite to follow the information on this link:
https://www.bwcumc.org/article/who-owns-the-building-understanding-the-trust-clause/
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Not sure about the definition of “failing”. If the local Church came to the conclusion that operating the Church was not viable on the current property, they could decide to sell property and close the church. First, the Church would pay all debts. Then, the Church would take whatever money that was left over and either use it for good works or to plant a new church. No members or other groups would have any right to any money from the Church.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
We truly cannot speculate on what might happen should the church disaffiliate. There are so many unknowns should that occur. Here is what we know. We know that as a United Methodist Church our buildings, property, historic chapel, and sanctuary would remain a beacon of light and hope for our community. By remaining United Methodist we would continue the stewardship of the legacy we have received and we would continue in our daily mission to “Love God, Love Neighbor, and make passionate followers of Jesus.” We cannot imagine what might become of the mission or property should disaffiliation take place. Here are links to inform you of some important truths what will remain in place in the United Methodist Church:
1. https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/entry/7736/united-methodists-and-grace
2. https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
3. https://www.umc.org/en/content/united-methodist-sacraments-rites-and-rituals
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If we Disaffiliate, the ownership of all of the Church property and buildings become the property of the local Church. Things would continue on essentially as they always have with the local Church paying the property taxes and maintaining the buildings. There isn’t any jeopardy created by Disaffiliation, just local ownership with local control.
Staff
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If we vote to disaffiliate, the pastors and staff would choose whether to stay UMC or not and if the church chose disaffiliation then the church would choose new pastors and staff. Our Senior Pastor has made it clear that he looks forward to remaining a United Methodist Pastor.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If we vote to disaffiliate, the pastors and staff would choose whether to stay or not and the church would have to choose to retain them.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
What will happen with staffing will of course depend on the decision that is made. We currently will have three elders that are appointed to AUMC. If AUMC does not disaffiliate, the Bishop will continue to appoint elders. Each June, the appointments are reviewed so it is possible new pastors could be appointed although we have no indication that is the case. The remainder of the staff, including our four deacons make the choice of whether to remain at AUMC with oversight from the Staff Parish Relations Committee.
If the church decides to disaffiliate, how the church would function would be determined by the new church organization and would depend upon decisions made during disaffiliation. If the decision is made to disaffiliate and be independent, the governing board of the new organization will be responsible for finding a pastor. If the church decides to join another denomination, help may be available for finding a pastor. In the case of disaffiliation, staff other than appointed positions would make a decision as to whether they would like to stay with the church or not.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The cost to disaffiliate is $1,208,339.19. Staff would choose whether to stay or not and the church would also have to choose to retain them. The only staff members who have expressed their interest have been those staff members wanting to stay UMC. If the church chooses to be an independent Methodist church, there are consulting firms available to assist with vetting and choosing a pastor. If the church joins another Methodist denomination, they have a process in place for choosing a pastor. It wouldn’t cost the church members any more to find a new leader, since the salary is already in our budget. For outreach ministries, the relationship would be ended as a United Methodist church and would need to be established on its own depending on our desire to be an independent Methodist church or join another Methodist denomination. All of the outreach ministries of the UMC (UMCOR, Blue Lake, Huntington, Emmaus, etc.) would be delighted to have the financial support of the church, regardless of the denominational affiliation.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the decision is made to disaffiliate and be independent, the governing board of the new organization will be responsible for finding a pastor, setting new guidelines for structure, approving a new way of connecting with churches, forming a new mission, vision, and value statement for the church. If the church decides to join another denomination, help may be available for finding a pastor. In either case, the new church would need to develop a framework of core beliefs in order to search for a pastor/staff that is committed to the same belief system. One has to wonder how pastors would be approved, educated, and ordained. One would also wonder what values would guide such a congregation. So many things would change if the church chose to remove the lifeline of connection and relationship that has been in place since the church was founded in 1837. For a reminder of the values of the United Methodist Church which guide our congregation please follow these links:
1. https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/our-christian-roots
2. https://www.umc.org/en/content/our-christian-roots-the-church
3. https://www.umc.org/en/content/an-open-table-how-united-methodists-understand-communion
4. https://www.umc.org/en/content/renewing-waters-how-united-methodists-understand-baptism
5. https://www.umc.org/en/who-we-are/what-we-believe/reflections-on-our-faith
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If the church chooses to be an independent Methodist church, there are consulting firms available to assist with vetting and choosing a pastor. If the church joins another Methodist denomination, they have a process in place for choosing a pastor.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If we vote to disaffiliate, the staff would choose whether to stay or not and the church would have to choose to retain them.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Per Cory, if we were to vote to disaffiliate, our pastors would still serve our church until the disaffiliation vote is fully approved in November 2023 by the Annual Conference.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The AUMC Moving Forward group has consulted our Pastor Emeritus George Mathison, former Associate Pastor Lester Spencer, and former youth pastor Greg McKinnon. In addition, they have consulted with John Ed Mathison, Karl Stegall, Walter Albritton, and Tim Thompson.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
If the decision is made to disaffiliate and be independent, the governing board of the new organization will be responsible for finding a pastor. If the church decides to join another denomination, help may be available for finding a pastor. In either case, the new church would need to develop a framework of core beliefs in order to search for a pastor/staff that is committed to the same belief system.
The good news about our United Methodist structure is that our pastors all receive Masters of Divinity from approved seminaries such as Asbury, Duke, and Emory. After receiving their Master’s degree, our pastors are then examined by Boards of Ministry at the District and Annual Conference level before finally being Commissioned and later Ordained by the Bishop. This probationary process is long and assures us that our clergy are trained theologically and equipped to lead our congregation. We give thanks that our own Rev. Kelli Hitchman Craig will be ordained at the June Annual Conference. To read more about this tried and true process for United Methodist Clergy please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/spirit-empowered-church-authorized-united-methodist-ordination
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
If the church chooses to be an independent Methodist church, there are consulting firms available to assist with vetting and choosing a pastor. If the church joins another Methodist denomination, they have a process in place for choosing a pastor, along with education requirements. In addition, if we join another Methodist denomination, they have programs in place for clergy health insurance and pensions. If we become an independent Methodist church, we will hire consultants to set up health insurance and pension plans for all clergy and staff, as this is what other churches in our area that are going to be an independent Methodist church have done.
Wesley
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Correct. Wesley Foundation is a separate entity in covenant with the United Methodist Church. In the past, AUMC funded a separate college ministry, so if we
disaffiliate, the governing body of the church would make a decision as to whether to
fund a college ministry. The Wesley Foundation began out of Auburn UMC in the 1930s as an outreach to college students. Due to the effectiveness of our connection to the Wesley Foundation Auburn UMC received apportionment dollars from the denomination to pay for over 25% of the cost of our beautiful sanctuary. This generous gift was given to us because of our faithfulness as a church to live in partnership to the many students in our community. We give thanks that the Auburn Wesley Foundation has been an integral part of sending more ministers into ministry than any institution in our Alabama West Florida Conference. Thanks be to God! We look forward to continuing this partnership in ministry.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Correct. Wesley Foundation is a separate entity of the United Methodist Church. In the past, AUMC funded a separate college ministry, so if we disaffiliate, the governing body of the church would make a decision as to whether to fund a college ministry.
See answer #1.
Various Unclassified
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Per the Book of Discipline, members are only removed from the roll if they move/transfer their membership OR after being listed on the Inactive Membership list at Charge Conference for 3 years.
Paragraph 240 and 241 in the Book of Discipline addresses transfer and withdrawal of members and state the following:
240. Transfer to Other Denominations—A pastor, upon receiving a request from a member to transfer to a church of another denomination, or upon receiving such request from a pastor or duly authorized official of another denomination, shall (with the approval of the member) issue a certificate of transfer and, upon receiving confirmation of the member’s reception into another congregation, shall properly record the transfer of such person on the membership record of the local church. For the transfer of a member of The United Methodist Church to a church of another denomination, an official “Transfer of Membership to Another Denomination” form shall be used
¶ 241. Withdrawal Without Notice—If a pastor is informed that a member has, without notice, united with a church of another denomination, the pastor shall make diligent inquiry and, if the report is confirmed, shall enter “Withdrawn” after the person’s name on the membership roll and shall report the same to the next charge conference. If a professing member residing in the community is negligent of the vows or is regularly absent from the worship of the church without valid reason, the pastor and the membership secretary shall report that member’s name to the church council, which shall do all in its power to reenlist the member in the active fellowship of the church. It shall visit the member and make clear that, while the member’s name is on the roll of a particular local church, one is a member of The United Methodist Church as a whole, and that, since the member is not attending the church where enrolled, the member is requested to do one of four things: (a) reaffirm the baptismal vows and return to living in the community of the baptismal covenant in the church where the member’s name is recorded, (b) request transfer to another United Methodist church where the member will return to living in the community of the baptismal covenant (see ¶ 239), (c) arrange transfer to a particular church of another denomination (see ¶ 240), or (d) request withdrawal. If the member does not comply with any of the available alternatives over a period of two years, the member’s name may be removed.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Rev. Dr. George Mathison is a retired clergyperson in good standing in The United Methodist Church. He continues to serve as pastor emeritus of Auburn UMC (https://www.aumc.net/our-staff/). Neither our pastor nor our district superintendent has asked Dr. Mathison to stay away from AUMC. Such rumors are simply untrue and harmful.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
In October 2022, Brother George was asked to meet with our District Superintendent Jeff Wilson and our pastor Cory Smith. At the meeting, our District Superintendent stated for Brother George “not to make himself visible.”
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
A new United Methodist Church will open on May 14, 2023 in the Opelika area.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
This question is beyond the scope of our work. You can learn more about our annual conference and our shared ministry at www.awfumc.org.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
Thus far, approximately 47 churches have disaffiliated from the Alabama-West Florida Annual Conference, including 8 in June 2021, 4 in June of 2022, and 38 in November of 2022.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
As stated earlier, there are now 470 United Methodist churches left in our Alabama West Florida Conference. As of 5/7/2023, 193 of those will disaffiliate. We do not have a total number of people (members) who have left with all of the disaffiliations.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
COVID was a major factor in the decline in attendance for 2020 and 2021. We continue to feel the affect of COVID as many people continue to view worship services on-line rather than attending the services. We give thanks that over 50 people have joined Auburn UMC already this year and that our Easter attendance was higher than it has been in years. Once this divisive season is behind us it will be important to evaluate and heal as we refocus on the important mission we have to “Love God, love neighbor, and make passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.”
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
We agree that COVID affected every local church. If it is the major factor of our churches decline, we can’t explain why other traditional churches in our area have seen exponential growth since COVID? For example, Auburn Community Church had over 5,000 in attendance for the first Sunday in their new location on Hamilton Road. First Baptist Opelika shared they already have 610 kids registered for VBS this year. Hopefully, our church can go through a formal Discernment process and turn this “decline” of our church into healing and growth again!
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Per our membership secretary, the total number of withdrawals for 2021 and 2022 is 77 professing members. We had a total of 113 transfer out to other denominations and a total of 55 transfer to other UMCs. In addition, here are the numbers of members who have been removed by Charge conference (i.e. “removed as inactive:”)
2018 – 4,136 (174 members removed by Charge Conference)
2019 – 3,887 (197 members removed by Charge Conference)
2020 – 3,743 (184 members removed by Charge Conference)
2021 – 3,515 (181 members removed by Charge Conference)
2022 – 3,301 (92 members removed by Charge Conference)
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
There are many different Methodist Denominations. The most commonly spoken of in this discussion of disaffiliations are the Global Methodist Church and the Free Methodist Church. In addition, some disaffiliating churches are not joining another Methodist denomination, but are choosing to remain an independent Methodist church, at least for a time.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
It is rare that property valuable to the church becomes available. The Trustees and Administrative Board believed purchasing the property was the best decision.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Listening and Learning task force has been researching multiple sources including other churches within the denomination (both those remaining UMC and those disaffiliating), denominational experts (again both sides), the Book of Discipline, rulings from Judicial Council, and Alabama West Florida specific information, among others.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
REACH is the Respite ministry which helps so many in our community living with dementia. This ministry began as a United Methodist outreach ministry from First UMC in Montgomery. It is speculative to ask about whether another church would lead such a ministry. A new church with new leadership would have to form and offer more discernment concerning the missions, visions, and values of a newly formed church. It would be unfair to speculate if such a ministry would fit within the goals of another church. It is known that those who helped began the REACH ministry will lead this level of concern and care in Auburn as United Methodists.
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
As stated in the above answer, REACH helps so many in our community living with dementia. The grant money was specifically given to our church for the REACH program. Whether our church remains UMC or disaffiliates, there is no plan to discontinue this worthwhile organization. We are so thankful for this ministry and our amazing church members who volunteer with this ministry as well!
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The Bishop has said that there have been no violations in the Alabama West Florida Conference.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Currently, there are 3,301 members on our membership roll. Unfortunately, the membership roll is confidential, so there is no way to get a list of all 3,301 members.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The United Methodist Church denomination started in 1968. Auburn Methodist Church became Auburn United Methodist Church in 1968.
Answer #1 (Stay UMC) & Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
There are now 470 churches in our Alabama West Florida Conference. In November 2022, 38 churches were approved for disaffiliation. In May 2023, 193 churches are up for disaffiliation. There is another conference to be held in November 2023 when other churches may seek disaffiliation.