Global Methodist Church Ends Partnership with United Theological Seminary

The Global Methodist Church (GMC) has officially severed its ties with United Theological Seminary (UTS) in Dayton, Ohio. The denomination, which had recognized the institution as an approved school for clergy preparation since 2024, stated that the decision followed a formal review by its Ministry and Higher Education Commission. According to a GMC spokesperson, the commission identified significant discrepancies regarding doctrinal commitments, institutional alignment, and methods of clergy formation, concluding that the seminary no longer met the denomination's specific standards.

Despite the termination of the partnership, the GMC confirmed that current students who matriculated at UTS on or before December 31, 2026, will be permitted to complete their programs and have them recognized toward ordination requirements. UTS President Mark Teasdale noted that the seminary had previously established a dedicated House of Study and specialized courses to support GMC students. The GMC currently maintains relationships with ten other approved academic institutions, including Asbury Theological Seminary and Wesley Biblical Seminary, as it continues to focus on preparing clergy in alignment with its established theological beliefs.