Why we voted to disaffiliate

Dec 14, 2020
Announcements

Introduction

Welcome to St Mark’s United Methodist Church! We invite you to explore the reasons behind our decision to disaffiliate from our previous denomination. In this article, we will provide a detailed account of the factors that led to this important decision and the impact it has had on our church community.

The Journey

Our journey towards disaffiliation began with a series of thoughtful conversations and reflections within our congregation. As a community rooted in faith and beliefs, we recognized the need for alignment between our values and the direction of our denomination. Through prayer, discussions, and careful consideration, we embarked on a path of self-discovery, seeking to uphold our commitment to the principles that guide us.

Reason 1: Divergent Theological Interpretations

One of the primary reasons for our disaffiliation was divergent theological interpretations. Over the years, we felt a growing disconnect between the teachings and practices advocated by our denomination and our own understanding of scripture. We believe that a church should reflect the values and beliefs of its community, and thus, it became clear that a separation was necessary to maintain our integrity.

Reason 2: Inclusivity and Social Justice

Another significant factor in our decision was the issue of inclusivity and social justice. As a church committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, we recognized the importance of fully embracing and supporting the rights and dignity of all individuals. We desired a more progressive approach that aligned with our conviction that every person, regardless of their background, should be valued, respected, and loved. Disaffiliating allowed us the freedom to pursue our vision wholeheartedly.

Reason 3: Autonomy and Decision-Making

Autonomy and decision-making played a crucial role in our disaffiliation process. We strongly felt the need to have a greater say in matters that directly impacted our congregation and community. By separating from our previous denomination, we gained the ability to make decisions that best serve the needs, aspirations, and unique dynamics of our congregation. This newfound autonomy allows us to be more responsive to the evolving needs of our community.

Impact on the Church Community

The decision to disaffiliate has had a profound impact on our church community. While change can be challenging, it has also been an opportunity for growth and renewal. We have witnessed a surge in unity and a strengthening of our sense of purpose. The decision has invigorated our commitment to serve our community passionately and work towards fostering a more inclusive and just society.

Continued Commitment

Although we have disaffiliated from our previous denomination, it is important to note that our commitment to faith and beliefs remains steadfast. We are devoted to creating a nurturing space where individuals can explore and deepen their relationship with God. Our worship services, community outreach programs, and spiritual development opportunities continue to thrive, providing a place of solace, inspiration, and growth for all who seek it.

Join Our Journey

If you resonate with our values and are searching for a community that embraces inclusivity, social justice, and a deep connection to faith, we invite you to join our journey. St Mark’s United Methodist Church warmly welcomes individuals from all walks of life, and we take joy in creating a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and loved.

Conclusion

The decision to disaffiliate was made after thoughtful consideration, driven by our desire to remain true to our faith and beliefs. Through this process, we have reimagined our future, embracing the values that define us as a church community. The impact on our congregation and the wider community has been profound, and we are excited to continue on this journey together.

Peter Keough
Great article! ?
Nov 11, 2023
Gary Pudimat
An important decision indeed. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
Nov 10, 2023
Marilyn Caldemeyer
Appreciate the detailed account and transparency regarding this significant decision.
Nov 8, 2023
Bryan Mattei
Reasons for our disaffiliation. ?
Oct 13, 2023
Bob Pepper
The transparency and reflection in this article are truly valuable. Thank you.
Oct 12, 2023
Brian Peters
Any major decision involves a lot of considerations. Thanks for sharing yours.
Aug 28, 2023
Erik Hartzfeld
The journey to disaffiliation must have been a challenging one. Your openness is commendable.
Aug 1, 2023
John Igoe
The complexities of this decision are clearly outlined. Thanks for sharing.
Jul 21, 2023
Oliver Breig
Wishing the community strength and resilience as you move forward from this decision.
Jul 19, 2023
Djordje Micovic
The strength to openly discuss significant decisions like this is commendable.
Jun 10, 2023
Roberto Mardeni
The openness in discussing this decision is commendable. Thank you.
May 5, 2023
Christina Forsythe
Wishing the community strength and unity during this transition period.
Apr 8, 2023
Tonny Kim
Navigating the impact of disaffiliation on the community is a challenging process. Thanks for discussing it.
Apr 2, 2023
Marilyn Gran
Your willingness to share the impact of this decision is appreciated.
Mar 27, 2023
Angela Loeffler
Change can be tough, but open communication is a positive step forward.
Mar 11, 2023
Troy Dockery
The openness in addressing the complexities of this decision is truly valuable. Thanks for sharing.
Mar 9, 2023
John Tsambasis
The impact on the community is a significant aspect to address. Thanks for providing insight.
Feb 20, 2023
Hafid Zeryouh
Your reflections on the impact of this decision are an essential contribution to the ongoing dialogue.
Jan 24, 2023
Kathy Wilkinson
The openness and vulnerability in sharing this experience is appreciated.
Jan 23, 2023
Robyn Barratt
This article offers insight into the challenges behind disaffiliation decisions.
Jan 22, 2023
Cleve Dryden
I'm intrigued to learn about the detailed account of the factors behind this decision.
Jan 12, 2023
Pierre Gielen
Openness and transparency regarding this significant decision are truly appreciated.
Jan 1, 2023
Cluckclucksew
The impact on the community is always a significant consideration. Thanks for addressing it.
Dec 31, 2022
Marty Kachelmyer
Navigating change is always a journey. Wishing St Mark's community strength.
Dec 28, 2022
Patrick Rokosz
Navigating change requires resilience. Wishing St Mark's community strength.
Dec 28, 2022
Gabriela Prunier
An important decision indeed. Thank you for openly sharing your process.
Dec 11, 2022
Virginia Coons
I appreciate the transparency in discussing the factors that led to this decision.
Dec 11, 2022
Franz Parik
Thank you for offering a detailed account of the factors behind this decision.
Dec 7, 2022
Thomas Dietrich
The thorough account of the factors behind the disaffiliation decision is a valuable contribution.
Nov 15, 2022
Matthew Grayson
Transparency and openness are crucial in discussing major decisions. Thank you for sharing.
Nov 5, 2022
Stephen Ashurst
Appreciate the openness and transparency in discussing this decision.
Oct 16, 2022
Gayle Nigro
Change is never easy. Thank you for openly sharing your journey.
Aug 25, 2022
Ajay Hubbard
Appreciate the courage and reflection in discussing this significant decision.
Aug 17, 2022
Ron Gibson
Navigating such a significant decision must have been quite a journey. Wishing you all the best.
Jul 8, 2022
Tasha Hardy
Engaging read! The complexities of such decisions are not easy, but transparency is key.
Jun 30, 2022
Adrian Marin
Thank you for providing clarity on the factors influencing your decision.
Jun 3, 2022
Robin Chester
The article provides a detailed account of the factors leading to disaffiliation.
May 10, 2022
Ken Cox
The challenges and reflections in this article are thought-provoking. Thank you.
Apr 18, 2022
Perry Cole
Wishing the St Mark's community strength and resilience as you navigate this transition.
Apr 3, 2022
Olivia Duran
The complexities of such decisions are clearly outlined in this article. Thank you for sharing.
Mar 5, 2022
Rick Fabiano
The transparency and reflection in this article are truly commendable. Thank you.
Mar 4, 2022
Juerg Eckhardt
Thanks for sharing your story and contributing to the wider conversation around disaffiliation.
Feb 21, 2022
William Mooney
Wishing St Mark's community resilience and unity during this transition period.
Feb 10, 2022
Oleg Lvovitch
Thank you for sharing your thought process behind the disaffiliation decision.
Jan 29, 2022
Joseph Castro
Your candid account of the factors is an important contribution to the ongoing dialogue.
Dec 7, 2021
Reilly Heiligenstein
Change is never easy, but open communication is a positive step forward.
Nov 17, 2021
David Siguenza
The impact of disaffiliation on community members is a crucial aspect to address. Thanks for sharing.
Nov 14, 2021
John Kinna
Thank you for providing insight into the thought process behind disaffiliation.
Nov 1, 2021
Tausif Khan
The complexities of disaffiliation are clearly articulated in this article. Thank you.
Sep 25, 2021
Mary Lag
The transparency in sharing the factors behind the decision is appreciated.
Sep 7, 2021
Monica Schaaf
Wishing the St Mark's community unity and strength during this transition.
Aug 12, 2021
Viki Tracey
It's important to consider the impact such decisions have on the community and its members.
Jun 10, 2021
Frank Boutwell
The impact of disaffiliation on a community is a crucial aspect to explore. Thank you.
Jun 9, 2021
Andreas Fischerdo
The thorough account of the factors behind disaffiliation is a commendable effort.
Jun 4, 2021
Charlie Dyer
Interesting read. Wishing St Mark's community all the best during this transition.
May 21, 2021
Joe Bellini
Resilience is key as you navigate this transition. Wishing St Mark's community strength.
May 6, 2021
Marc Porterfield
Wishing St Mark's community support and solidarity during this transition.
Apr 22, 2021
Noboru Takebayashi
The vulnerability in sharing this experience is appreciated. Wishing you all the best.
Apr 1, 2021
Lauren Fox
An important decision indeed. Thank you for being open about the process.
Feb 24, 2021
Jason Draper
Openness and transparency are important in discussing major decisions. Thank you.
Feb 12, 2021
Ivan Glasser
Being open about the factors influencing the decision is a valuable contribution to the wider conversation.
Feb 8, 2021
Henry Canastero
Open communication is key, and the transparency in this article is appreciated.
Jan 21, 2021
Ted Weager
Interesting read. Wishing the St Mark's community all the best in this new phase.
Jan 19, 2021