Dear <<First Name>>,
Last Sunday, I mentioned in my sermon that I expected First Methodist Carrollton to vote to leave the United Methodist denomination. For the first time in my life, United Methodist churches have the opportunity to explore other ways to be a part of the evangelical vision of the three-century-old Methodist tradition. The following explains why we are headed in this direction and the next steps you can take to make the most informed decision in this process.
Last spring, a study committee began the work of exploring those options. They have continued to monitor our options and make reports to our Church Council. Their reports are linked here:
In September and the first week in October, we had home meetings to share the committee's findings and to answer questions to help our congregation make the best decision for our future. There was much discussion and questions at these meetings, but there was overwhelming support for a new beginning in a traditional, conservative Methodist denomination. After these home meetings, we developed a resource page on our website so everyone could find answers to their questions. The reports from our study committee and a report from the home meetings can be found on this site. If you have yet to see the video by Dr. Scott Jones (one of the resources on this page), I highly recommend it to bring yourself up to date.
Here are important dates to remember:
- On November 29, the Church Council of FMC will be meeting to officially call an all-church meeting on January 22, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. to take a vote on leaving the UMC.
- On December 4, at 4:00 p.m., Larry Duggins, one of the pastors at White's Chapel United Methodist Church, will be here to share that church's experience in voting with great unity to leave the UMC. He will also share about the Methodist Collegiate Association (a new Methodist Churches organization for those who have left the UMC).
- On December 11 at 4:00 p.m., Dr. Leah Hidde-Gregory, the interim president of the Mid-Texas Conference of the Global Methodist Church, will be sharing about the new Global Methodist Church. On both Sundays, we will have time for questions and discussion. Every member will receive information on submitting questions before these crucial meetings.
- In early January, we will send every member information about how the vote will be taken and the ballot wording we will use on January 22, 2023.
- January 22, 4:00 p.m. – VOTE.
My goal as a pastor and spiritual leader is to do all I can to make sure we move through this process with prayer, love, grace, respect and unity. As we've moved through this nearly year-long process, I have been amazed at the spirit of love and support that has bound our congregation together.
Let's show the world a different way—not of division and hate, but of God's Spirit of unity and love that lives through us by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Here is list of names and email addresses of those who are available if you have questions, or you can email me, and I will be happy to answer any questions you have.
See you Sunday,
Pastor John Allen
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