A violent clash between followers of two Methodist churches in Nigeria has resulted in the deaths of a 27-year-old man and two young children, highlighting the deep-seated tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ policies within the church.
The United Methodist Church (UMC) recently voted to overturn its ban on LGBTQ+ clergy and ease restrictions on same-sex marriages. This decision has led to thousands of churches seeking to separate from the UMC, with some joining the conservative Global Methodist Church.
On December 15, violence broke out between worshippers of the UMC and the GMC in Taraba state. Elisha Masoyi, a United Methodist member, was shot dead, while two children believed to be siblings were killed when huts were set on fire. Ten people were injured, and six arrests have been made.
The UMC’s bishop-elect Ande Emmanuel and Nigeria lead bishop John Schol condemned the violence, calling for an end to the fighting and urging calm. They reminded both sides of their shared Christian values and the importance of maintaining peace.
The Council of Bishops for the UMC issued a statement condemning the violence and pleading with its members to bear witness to Jesus Christ’s message of love and non-violence.
Source: https://www.thepinknews.com/2024/12/18/united-methodist-church-nigeria-violence-lgbtq