By Fort Nicolas
Something is brewing within the United Methodist Church, and an earth-shaking eruption seems inevitable unless earnest efforts are made to prevent it.
One of the most significant outcomes of the recent General Conference 2024 held in Charlotte, North Carolina was the overwhelming approval of regionalization—a restructuring initiative designed to grant the UMC’s four global regions, including the Philippines, greater autonomy in governing their internal affairs.
In light of divisive and controversial issues, such as same-sex marriage and the ordination of self-avowed and practicing gay clergy, many conservative members of the UMC in the Philippines regard regionalization as a step in the right direction.
Also, many viewed this move as a progressive step toward decentralizing the perceived U.S.-centric global church’s governance, addressing long-standing cultural and theological differences often seen as remnants of colonialism within its structure.
The new model allegedly aims to place each region on equal footing, allowing for contextual adaptations that respect local traditions and practices.
During the monthly gathering of the United Methodist Men (UMM) of Quezon City Philippines Annual Conference – East (QCPACE), both District Superintendents (DSes) Orlando Veron of Southeast District (SED) and Marlon Gonzales of Northwest District (NWD) urged the lay organization’s members to support the denomination’s move for regionalization and approve in next year’s annual conference.
Veron and Gonzales explained that regionalization will allow the United Methodists in the Philippines to focus on their concerns and more effectively solve local problems.
Complete Autonomy: Boon or Bane?
However, the GenCon decisions have not quelled all calls for change within the UMC in the Philippines. The regionalization plan offered significant concessions but not everyone was optimistic.
Although Bishop Ruby-Nell Estrella of the Manila Episcopal Area, in particular, has repeatedly emphasized that the UMC in the Philippines will remain traditional, hence against same-sex marriage and ordination of self-avowed and practicing clergy, still a vocal group of Filipino United Methodists insists on pushing for full autonomy from the global UMC, seeking a complete break from the denomination’s central governance.
They claim regionalization is not what the Filipino United Methodists need to correct the present flaws of the denomination.
This campaign for independence has been fueled by a desire to establish a church structure that is wholly independent and more aligned with the cultural and theological landscape of the Philippines.
The call for autonomy reflects broader tensions within the UMC, particularly surrounding contentious issues such as LGBTQ+ rights.
Differences in beliefs about same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ clergy have caused deep divisions within the church, prompting some Filipino leaders to advocate for a distinct, self-governing body that can more effectively address local concerns and uphold traditional values.
A Schism-Riddled Landscape
The push for autonomy comes on the heels of a broader schism within the UMC, marked by the recent formation of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), a new denomination established by conservative factions in the United States.
This split has sent shockwaves through the global Methodist community, including the Philippines, where the disaffiliation efforts have sparked debates about the future of the UMC and its mission.
The decisions made in the coming years will be pivotal in shaping the church’s future, as Filipino Methodists weigh the benefits of regional autonomy against the risks of further division.
The next steps will involve careful deliberation and dialogue, as the UMC Philippines seeks a path forward that honors its unique identity while remaining connected to the broader Methodist tradition.
The outcome of these discussions could redefine the role of the UMC in the Philippines and set a precedent for other regions grappling with similar challenges.
A Call for Continuing Unity
In a powerful appeal for unity, a group of concerned church leaders issued a joint statement last August 4 in response to ongoing divisions and the recent emergence of the Filipino Evangelical Methodist Church.
The statement, signed by several prominent figures including the three incumbent UMC Bishops Rodel M. Acdal, Ruby-Nell M. Estrella, Israel M. Painit, Emerito P. Nacpil, Reynato S. Puno, and Pacifico B. Aniag, calls for peace, mutual respect, and a commitment to reconciliation despite the fractures within the denomination.
“We respect the right of every clergy and lay member to follow their conscience in matters of faith and practice,” the leaders stated, acknowledging the recent decisions of some members to leave the UMC.
While expressing sadness over the departures, they emphasized their commitment to honoring the journey of those who have chosen a different path, praying for “God’s continued guidance and blessings in their lives.”
A Hope for Healing
The signatories collectively expressed their hope for healing and the strengthening of relationships within the church. The statement also addressed the growing tension regarding property disputes and legal actions, urging restraint and caution.
“We call on everyone to refrain from any harmful actions or language that may exacerbate the current situation, particularly regarding the filing of cases related to properties,” the leaders wrote, highlighting the importance of maintaining a spirit of understanding and cooperation.
Emphasizing the value of respectful dialogue, the leaders urged their fellow members to avoid spreading misinformation and engaging in divisive behavior, particularly on social media.
The leaders concluded their appeal by calling for steadfast prayer and a commitment to peacemaking. They called for all members to be “peacemakers and bridge-builders” and serve as a reminder of the higher purpose that unites them.
Quoting John 13:34-35, they reminded their followers of Christ’s command to love one another, which they described as the true mark of discipleship: “Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you also love each other. This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, when you love each other.”
