A Summary: Deadly violence in Nigeria linked to breakup of United Methodist Church over LGBTQ policies
Written by ASSOCIATED PRESS, Updated 3:30 PM PST, December 17, 2024
The United Methodist Church in Nigeria is experiencing a deadly schism following the worldwide denomination's decision to lift bans on LGBTQ ordination and same-sex marriage.
African delegates to the General Conference of the United Methodist Church pray outside the Charlotte Convention Center, in Charlotte, N.C., Thursday, May 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Smith, File)
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Key events:
- A church member was fatally shot.
- Homes were set ablaze, killing two children.
- 10 church members were injured.
- Underlying cause: The conflict stems from the formation of the Global Methodist Church by conservative churches breaking away from the United Methodist Church over LGBTQ issues.
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Reactions:
- Local United Methodist bishops condemned the violence and urged an end to the bloodshed.
- The Assembly of Bishops of the Global Methodist Church is investigating the allegations and called for peace.
This violence highlights the deep divisions within the United Methodist Church over LGBTQ issues and the potential for these divisions to escalate into tragic consequences.
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