As deadline approaches, Methodist departures exceed expectations
Schism caused by divide over same-sex marriage and ordination of gays
As recently as a year ago, a recognized authority on U.S. religion was expecting that by the end of 2023, as many as 5,000 congregations would leave the United Methodist Church in a slow-motion schism in a debate over the marriage and ordination of gays.
As of now, that number is well over 7,000, although …