Thousands of United Methodist congregations have been voting on whether to stay or quit one of the nation's largest denominations amid intractable debates over theology and the role of LGBTQ people. There are sharp differences over recognizing same-sex marriage and ordaining LGBTQ clergy.
The Rev. Bill Farmer reached the point where he couldn't stay in the United Methodist Church anymore -- but the congregation he attended was staying. Each has found new church homes, and they're not alone.
Ferguson said she can personally relate to those from departing congregations. Her childhood church -- the one that shaped her faith and where at age 12 she felt the call to ministry -- also voted to leave. Hahn said he, his wife and daughters have found"a very warm and welcoming environment" in the Stokesdale congregation, with people saying,"We're glad to have you here, we want to walk through this period with you."
Grace Methodist has been renting a former lodge hall for its services and has already started Bible studies and community outreaches, while also working to attract attendees from their neighborhood. That's a fraction of the United Methodists' 30,000 U.S. churches, though several of the departing congregations are among the largest in their states.
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