Over 5,300 congregations have officially left the United Methodist Church (UMC) as of recent reports, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing division within the second-largest Protestant denomination in the United States. This surge in departures, primarily driven by disagreements over theological issues, particularly those related to human sexuality, represents a substantial increase from the approximately 4,600 churches that had disaffiliated just a week prior and the roughly 2,000 that left in 2022.

These figures, compiled from various annual conference reports and public records, offer a more current view of the situation than official denominational data. The wave of disaffiliations stems from a 2019 church law (Paragraph 2553 of the Book of Discipline) permitting churches to retain their property upon leaving, provided they secure two-thirds congregational approval and regional body consent. This provision is set to expire at the end of the year.

Departing churches are required to fulfill financial obligations, including pension liabilities and two years of contributions to the broader denomination. The 2019 General Conference, which voted to maintain the UMC’s stance against same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy, sparked controversy. Conservative members have expressed concern over liberal leaders allegedly disregarding this vote, leading many congregations to seek affiliation with the newly established Global Methodist Church or to remain independent.

The disaffiliation process has not been without its challenges. Many churches have encountered financial and legal obstacles, leading to disputes over property ownership and highlighting the complex and often contentious nature of this denominational divide.