Horizon Texas Conference and Highland Park UMC Engage in Legal Dispute

The Horizon Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church has filed a lawsuit against Highland Park United Methodist Church (HPUMC) in Dallas, seeking judicial clarification regarding the congregation's governing documents and property deeds. The legal action follows months of unsuccessful negotiations between the regional body and the megachurch leadership.

The conference alleges that HPUMC’s Church Council unilaterally amended its articles and bylaws in 2022 and 2023 to remove references to the United Methodist Church and its Book of Discipline. According to Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr., these changes were made without the required approval of a properly called charge conference. The regional body maintains that its goal is to protect the church's United Methodist identity and ensure the congregation remains within the denomination.

In response, HPUMC leadership has defended its actions, with some representatives comparing the conflict to the biblical account of Cain and Abel. While the conference emphasizes a desire for restoration and resolution, the dispute remains active in the Dallas County District Court as both parties continue to issue public statements regarding their respective positions.