LUMINARY CHURCH
Global Methodist Church Affiliation
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Disaffiliation from the United Methodist Church
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On February 5, 2023, Luminary Church voted to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church. Rather than rush into a new affiliation, church leadership opted for a period of independent operation to allow time for prayerful discernment and the completion of the disaffiliation process, which was finalized in late May 2023.
This time of independence gave our leadership and congregation the space to reflect on our identity, mission, and future. It also ensured that any decision about future affiliation would be made thoughtfully and with wide input from the church body.
Affiliation Committee: Research, Discernment, and Recommendation
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In August 2023, the Church Leadership Council (CLC) established the Luminary Affiliation Committee, chaired by Ron Woody. This committee was tasked with researching affiliation options, evaluating advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately making a recommendation to the CLC and congregation.
Over several months, the committee met regularly—praying, studying, and considering more than 30 potential organizations. They published updates in the church newsletter, invited member feedback, and narrowed the list using five key criteria. One of the most critical requirements was the absence of a Trust Clause—ensuring Luminary Church would retain full ownership of its property. Many groups were disqualified based on this and other factors, but the Global Methodist Church (GMC) emerged as the clear frontrunner.
Affiliation with the Global Methodist Church
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In early 2024, the Affiliation Committee unanimously recommended that Luminary Church pursue affiliation with the Global Methodist Church. The CLC accepted the recommendation and called a Church Conference on April 21, 2024, to hold a vote. Of the 64 ballots cast, 53 were in favor of affiliation and 11 were opposed. With that, the motion passed—and on April 25, 2024, Luminary Church officially became a member of the Global Methodist Church.
The GMC was a natural fit. It aligns with our Wesleyan heritage, shares our values, and is made up of churches with stories similar to ours—many of whom also transitioned from the United Methodist Church. We believe this affiliation strengthens our mission and helps us continue growing as a Christ-centered, Spirit-led church family.
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