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[CULTURE] · United States · 3 sources

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Part of situation: United Methodist Church institutional decline and disputes (2 clusters)

United Methodist Church faces legal battles in South Carolina and Texas

United Methodist Church denominational split Highland Park United Methodist Church church property disputes South Carolina Conference

Legal disputes regarding property and governance continue to impact the United Methodist Church (UMC) in both South Carolina and Texas.

In South Carolina, a judge intends to dismiss lawsuits filed by the South Carolina Conference against nearly 70 congregations. These churches sought to leave the denomination while retaining their properties, often citing disagreements over theology and LGBT-related issues. The South Carolina Conference has stated it intends to appeal the decision, potentially to the state Supreme Court.

In Texas, Highland Park United Methodist Church, a Dallas-based congregation with over 15,000 members, is considering leaving the UMC. The church is currently in a legal battle with the Horizon Texas Conference over changes made to its governing documents and authority over clergy selection. Church leaders held a town hall meeting to discuss the matter, noting that any final decision to sever ties would be put to a congregational vote.

Entities

Brian M. Gibbons · Highland Park United Methodist Church · Horizon Texas Conference · South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church · United Methodist Church

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

  • [● 2 SOURCES] Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas is considering leaving the denomination following a legal battle with the Horizon Texas Conference. mycharisma.com · www.christianpost.com
  • [● 2 SOURCES] The Horizon Texas Conference filed a lawsuit against Highland Park challenging changes made to its governing documents. mycharisma.com · www.christianpost.com
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] Judge Brian M. Gibbons intends to dismiss lawsuits filed by the South Carolina Conference against nearly 70 churches. www.christianitydaily.com
  • [● 2 SOURCES] A decision to sever ties with the UMC at Highland Park would be determined by a congregational vote. mycharisma.com · www.christianpost.com
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] The South Carolina Conference intends to appeal the dismissal, potentially to the South Carolina Supreme Court. www.christianitydaily.com

Sources

15,000-Member Texas Megachurch Weighs United Methodist Church Exit as Legal Battle Escalates - Charisma Magazine Online [mycharisma.com]
Court Poised to Dismiss South Carolina UMC Lawsuits Against Nearly 70 Churches [www.christianitydaily.com]
Texas megachurch may leave UMC amid ongoing legal battle with conference [www.christianpost.com]