South Carolina Judge Expected to Dismiss UMC Lawsuits Against Departing Churches

A South Carolina circuit court judge has indicated an intention to dismiss legal cases brought by the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church against approximately 70 congregations seeking to exit the denomination while retaining their property. While the formal orders have not yet been finalized, the conference stated that attorneys for the departing churches have been tasked with drafting the proposed dismissal documents.

In response to the expected ruling, the UMC South Carolina Conference announced plans to appeal the decision, potentially escalating the matter to the South Carolina Supreme Court. Bishop Leonard Fairley emphasized that the regional body remains committed to its mission of making disciples despite the ongoing legal uncertainty. This development follows a period of significant transition for the denomination, which saw over 7,500 congregations depart nationwide in recent years amid internal disagreements regarding theological stances on LGBT issues. In 2023, the South Carolina Conference had previously approved the disaffiliation of 113 other member congregations.