# United Methodist Church institutional decline and disputes

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/united-methodist-church-institutional-decline-and-disputes
> Updated: 2026-10-14T14:49:26.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

The United Methodist Church is experiencing significant instability characterized by declining membership and internal legal conflicts. Initial reports indicate a trend of widespread congregation closures across the United States, with experts projecting that approximately 100,000 churches may close or be repurposed over the next decade. Specific instances include the closure of the Belding United Methodist Church in Michigan after 120 years of operation.

This period of transition is further complicated by legal disputes regarding property and governance. In South Carolina, litigation has emerged as congregations attempt to leave the denomination while retaining their properties, often citing theological and LGBT-related disagreements. Meanwhile, in Texas, large congregations such as Highland Park United Methodist Church are navigating legal battles over governing documents and authority, with some members considering a formal severance from the denomination.

## Claims

- Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas is considering leaving the denomination following a legal battle with the Horizon Texas Conference. (reported by 2 sources)
- A decision to sever ties with the UMC at Highland Park would be determined by a congregational vote. (reported by 2 sources)
- The Horizon Texas Conference filed a lawsuit against Highland Park challenging changes made to its governing documents. (reported by 2 sources)
- Judge Brian M. Gibbons intends to dismiss lawsuits filed by the South Carolina Conference against nearly 70 churches. (reported by 1 source)
- The South Carolina Conference intends to appeal the dismissal, potentially to the South Carolina Supreme Court. (reported by 1 source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-14: United Methodist Church faces legal battles in South Carolina and Texas

The United Methodist Church faces legal challenges in South Carolina, where a judge may dismiss property lawsuits, and in Texas, where a 15,000-member megachurch is considering leaving the denomination.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/united-methodist-church-faces-legal-battles-in-south-carolina-and-texas

### 2026-09-30: United Methodist churches face widespread closures across the U.S

United Methodist churches across the U.S. face a wave of closures due to declining membership, a trend highlighted by recent congregation shutdowns and a new PBS documentary series.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/united-methodist-churches-face-widespread-closures-across-the-us

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Cite as: United Methodist Church institutional decline and disputes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/united-methodist-church-institutional-decline-and-disputes