Three were killed over the schism of the UMC
Violent clashes broke out between groups of Methodists in Nigeria and Liberia as a divide over the ordination of LGBTQ clergy and same-sex marriage has split the United Methodist Church.
Within the United States, the schism of the United Methodist Church was peaceful. One church in the Northern Illinois Conference locked out its appointed pastor by changing the locks to its church building. Other parts of the country had political tactics to gain more on one side over another. The parted group formed the “Global Methodist Church.”
On December 15, it was not a peaceful schism between members of The United Methodist Church of Nigeria and the breakaway Global Methodist Church in Munga Dosso, Taraba State. Three United Methodists were killed despite the closure of both denominations’ churches in September by the government as a result of the conflict that caused instability and disrupted peace in the state.
During the confrontation, Elisha Masoyi, 27, a United Methodist and brother of the church lay leader, was shot and killed.
In addition, 11 huts belonging to the United Methodist were torched, resulting in the deaths of 4-year-old Abednego and 2-year-old baby, children of Abraham Kefas, a church member and overseer of Divine Success UMCN Nursery and Primary School in the Munga Dosso community. Ten church members were injured and were being treated at home. Some houses of members of the Global Methodist Church were burned down in retaliation.
In a statement, United Methodist Bishop-elect Ande Emmanuel and Nigeria Lead Bishop John Schol condemned the violence and offered prayers and support for those affected.
“As bishops of The United Methodist Church, we are outraged that such an atrocity would occur among Christians, especially brothers and sisters who were once part of the same Methodist family.”
Their statement continued calling upon leaders of the Global Methodist Church [GMC], particularly the three bishops who lead Nigeria, to act justly and bring those who perpetrated the crimes to justice.
“We further urge GMC members, at all levels, to put an immediate end to the violence and refrain from disseminating misinformation that fuels fear and disdain that can lead to violence. Likewise, we call our United Methodist members to be guided by integrity and respectful while working towards maintaining peace.”