What is happening in the United Methodist Church today?

The United Methodist Church is in a season of significant transition and renewal. After years of internal debate—particularly around issues of human sexuality and church unity—the denomination is working to refocus on its core mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

A Season of Change

In recent years, some congregations and clergy have chosen to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church, primarily over disagreements about the denomination's policies on same-sex marriage and the ordination of openly LGBTQ clergy. While these departures have been painful, many United Methodists see this as an opportunity for the church to move forward with greater clarity about its identity and mission.

Renewed Focus on Mission

Across the connection, United Methodists are redoubling their efforts in areas of traditional strength: vibrant worship, compassionate service, global mission, and community engagement. Many annual conferences are investing in church planting, revitalization of existing congregations, and innovative forms of ministry designed to reach new people with the Gospel.

Global Growth

While membership in the United States has declined in recent decades (a trend shared by most mainline Protestant denominations), the church is growing rapidly in Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world. The global nature of the United Methodist Church is increasingly shaping its identity, its worship, and its witness.

Institutional Renewal

The denomination is also working to restructure its agencies, streamline its governance, and make better use of its resources. These efforts aim to make the church more responsive, more efficient, and more focused on supporting local congregations and annual conferences in their ministry.