Maryland Churches Face Fresh Setback in Property Dispute with United Methodist Leadership

Faith Facts

• 37 Maryland churches are challenging United Methodist denominational rules governing property and exit procedures.
• An appeals court panel ruled against the congregations in their latest legal effort.
• Local churches seek to retain property and autonomy while remaining faithful to traditional Christian doctrine.

A Maryland appeals court has rejected the latest attempt by 37 congregations seeking to leave the United Methodist Church while retaining their church properties. The decision marks another setback for churches that argue the denomination’s exit rules place an unfair burden on congregations wishing to depart.

The suit centers on claims that the United Methodist Church’s trust clause and related policies make it nearly impossible for local churches to leave the denomination without losing buildings and assets they have maintained for generations. Church leaders contend these rules conflict with longstanding principles of local church autonomy.

“We are disappointed by the court’s decision and will prayerfully consider our next steps,” a representative for the congregations stated. “Our commitment to biblical truth and to serving our communities remains unchanged.”

Many of the congregations involved in the lawsuit have historically held to traditional Christian teachings on marriage and human sexuality. They maintain that their doctrinal convictions, rather than financial motives, are driving the desire to separate from the larger denomination.

The ongoing legal battle highlights growing tensions within mainline Protestant bodies over issues of doctrine, property rights, and the freedom of local congregations to govern their own affairs. Supporters of the churches argue that such disputes strike at the heart of religious liberty and the ability of faith communities to preserve their witness.

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