A resolution draft for consideration at the 2028 General Conference of The United Methodist Church—reflecting the context of the ratified global regionalization framework, the dual-site configuration in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Harare, Zimbabwe, and the distinct theological stances of African Regional Conferences regarding same sex marriages and ordination and reference paragraphs and scripture.
Resolution: Affirming Regional Context, Scriptural Integrity, Doctrinal and Historical Disciplines for the African Regional Conferences and Mutual Respect Within a Global Connection:
WHEREAS, the 2024 General Conference of The United Methodist Church enacted sweeping legislative changes that removed long-standing restrictions regarding human sexuality, same-sex marriage, and ordination; and
WHEREAS, the African Regional Conferences remain unalterably committed to the authority of Holy Scripture, which affirms that marriage is a sacred covenant uniquely designed between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4–6), and which consistently holds that same-sex practices are non-compliant with God’s creative intent (Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26–27, 1 Corinthians 6:9–10); and
WHEREAS, the African Regional Conferences formally reject the 2024 revisions and desire to permanently retain, uphold, and practice the historical, orthodox standards previously codified in the 2016 UMC Book of Discipline, specifically:
- Paragraph 161.b (The Social Principles): Affirming that marriage is a sacred covenant restricted to the union of “one man and one woman,” and maintaining that “the practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching”.
- Paragraph 304.3 (Qualifications for Ordination): Stating that “self-avowed practicing homosexuals are not to be certified as candidates, ordained as ministers, or appointed to serve in The United Methodist Church”.
- Paragraph 341.6 (Unauthorized Conduct): Strictly prohibiting United Methodist clergy from “conducting ceremonies which celebrate homosexual unions” or performing same-sex wedding ceremonies.
- Paragraph 613.19 & Paragraph 806.9 (Funding Restrictions): Prohibiting annual conferences and general boards or agencies from utilizing church funds to promote the acceptance of homosexuality.
WHEREAS, while the ratification of regionalization was intended to allow contextual governance, the depth of theological divergence over foundational biblical doctrines necessitates a structurally distinct operational path to protect the conscience and mission of the African church; and
WHEREAS, the hosting of part of the 2028 General Conference in Harare, Zimbabwe, provides a historic and fitting venue to formally transition this relationship with mutual dignity, respect, and blessing;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the 2028 General Conference of The United Methodist Church declares and enacts the following:
1. Approval of Autonomous Status: The General Conference hereby grants the African regional conferences (formerly central conferences) the right to transition into a fully Autonomous Methodist Church structure, pursuant to the historical principles of connectional concordats and the constitutional provisions governing autonomous bodies.
2. Codification of the 2016 Disciplines: The newly formed African autonomous body explicitly retains and permanently adopts the exact text, limitations, definitions, and judicial precedents of Paragraphs 161.b, 304.3, 341.6, 613.19, and 806.9 of the 2016 Book of Discipline as its baseline operational and moral law.
3. Orderly Transition and Concordat Agreement: A joint commission comprising representatives from the General Board of Global Ministries, the Council of Bishops, and the African leadership shall be established immediately to draft a formal Concordat Agreement. This agreement will outline ongoing missional partnerships, educational sharing, and property transfers to ensure the African church retains full ownership of its local properties, clinics, schools, and universities.
4. Mutual Recognition and Fraternal Blessing: The United Methodist Church and the Autonomous Methodist Church of Africa shall maintain a relationship of fraternal respect—recognizing each other’s historical lineage in the Wesleyan movement while walking in distinct organizational paths as dictated by their respective understandings of scriptural holiness and ecclesial order.
Drafted by: Kennedy Farai Mukwindidza.
Theological Voice of Africa President.
