Splitting the Methodist Church
14 | THE PROSPECTOR
Why division may be the best option for the future
JOAN THYAGARAJAN writer
In the wake of the controversy regarding the LGBTQ+ presence in the church, the recent proposition to split the Methodist Church into two separate denominations is beneficial for both parties within the church. The Methodist Church is the largest denomination of Protestant Christianity in the United States. Before this proposed split, the Methodist Church was staunchly against LGBTQ+ rights, and would not allow samesex marriage or accept LGBTQ+ members into the ranks of their clergy. After a vote in 2019 which rejected the previous proposal for more extensive LGBTQ+ involvement in the church, the division between the church was proposed in order to give the LGBTQ+ community freedom to practice their religion. This schism could divide a church of over seven million people, and if it does, it could be one of the most progressive steps taken for LGBTQ+ rights. One of the biggest taboos for the United Methodist Church has been gay marriage. The do’s and don’ts of marriage are ingrained as part of the religion, but there must be a separation between religion and fundamental human rights. If someone believes same-sex marriage should not be allowed, they should not be able to infringe upon the rights of someone who does. By preventing people from following a religion of their choice because of their sexuality, they are disavowed their freedom of belief. The church has no obligation to change its rules, as their beliefs are valid to themselves, but by creating a separate denomination in this faith for those who believe in gay marriage, the original church could keep its faith, and the progressive church would be free to allow same-sex marriage, while still being Methodist. Along with protecting the rights of citizens, this split would be a strong first step towards ousting the stereotype that the Christian community as a whole is completely
