Global Methodist Church Appeals Nigerian Court Ruling in Registration Dispute with United Methodist Church

The theologically conservative Global Methodist Church (GMC) has filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal in Nigeria’s Abuja Judicial Division, challenging a recent ruling that favored the United Methodist Church (UMC) in a dispute over registration and resources. Bishop John Pena Auta of the GMC announced the appeal at a press conference held at McBride Global Methodist Church in Jalingo, emphasizing the denomination’s commitment to the rule of law and due process.

“We read the judgment of the Court and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and due process,” Auta stated. “As a law-abiding body, we respect the judicial process and remain confident in the justice system.” He also emphasized that the GMC was “fully within its legal rights to continue its activities and use of its properties,” urging members to “remain calm, prayerful, and steadfast during this period.”

Auta called on church members to “remain law-abiding and refrain from any form of confrontation or actions that may disrupt public peace or bring the name of the Church into disrepute.” He added that the leadership is “committed to pursuing all lawful means to seek redress and justice,” while encouraging followers to “stay peaceful, focused, and trusting in God” as they navigate the legal process.

The UMC has long been divided over the issue of same-sex marriage and the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals. Efforts to amend the Book of Discipline to allow these practices have faced resistance, with many theological liberals refusing to follow or enforce the rules. This has led to the departure of thousands of mostly theologically conservative congregations by 2023.

At the 2024 UMC General Conference, delegates voted to remove the language prohibiting same-sex marriage and the ordination of noncelibate homosexuals. This decision prompted many churches and UMC leaders in Africa to consider disaffiliation. In Nigeria, where same-sex marriage and homosexuality are illegal, and where citizens are prohibited from participating in LGBT advocacy, the situation has been particularly sensitive.

In July 2024, Nigerian Bishop John Wesley Yohanna claimed that his regional body had voted to leave the UMC and join the GMC. However, a group of Nigerian UMC leaders disputed this, stating that only Yohanna and approximately 10% of the regional body had opted to leave. Disputes over property and resources in Nigeria have occasionally led to violence, underscoring the gravity of the legal and pastoral challenges at hand.

Source: Read the original report