Violent Clashes Between UMC and GMC Erupt at Nigerian Seminary
Clashes between United Methodist Church (UMC) and Global Methodist Church (GMC) members have erupted in Nigeria, particularly at a seminary, over control of properties. Recent incidents involved church vandalism and violence, prompting calls for peace and resolution. Tensions are fueled by differing positions on church policies, especially regarding LGBTQ+ issues, amidst escalating violence in the region.
Violent confrontations erupted at a seminary in Nigeria between members of The United Methodist Church (UMC) and the Global Methodist Church (GMC). This conflict arises as both denominations vie for control over numerous properties in the nation. Bishop Ande Emmanuel, of the Nigeria Episcopal Area, shared details of two recent incidents, indicating a troubling trend in the escalating conflict between the two groups.
The first incident occurred on February 6 in Keru village, where a local UMC church was allegedly set ablaze by GMC members. A second confrontation was reported at Banyam Theological Seminary on February 17, wherein GMC members reportedly attempted to assert control over the campus, vandalizing UMC insignias in the process. Bishop Emmanuel expressed concern over these actions, calling them a violation of previously established agreements.
Emmanuel emphasized that both the GMC and UMC need to refrain from violence, stating, “I strongly condemn any act of violence or disrespect from either party.” He believes these violent incidents are part of an ongoing campaign by the GMC to unlawfully seize UMC properties, a situation exacerbated by prior unlawful occupations by GMC.
Bishop Emmanuel appealed to GMC leaders, Bishops John Pena Auta and Scott Jones, urging them to work towards preserving peace amidst ongoing property disputes. Meanwhile, a statement from Bishop Scott Jones alleged that UMC members disrupted a conference planned by the GMC, claiming they were armed and violent, resulting in injuries to several individuals and necessitating military intervention to restore order.
The UMC’s General Conference previously voted to change certain church policies regarding same-sex unions and related matters, steps that have been controversial within the Nigerian context, where similar activities face legal prohibition. Recently, there have been claims of escalating violence related to church disaffiliations, raising serious concerns about safety and community relations.
Bishop John Wesley Yohanna, previously claiming a regional vote to join the GMC, has been contested by the UMC, arguing that such disaffiliation accounts for only a tiny fraction of their total membership. Such disputes have been accompanied by disturbing violence, leading to fatalities and property destruction in various locations, heightening tensions further and prompting calls for peaceful resolution among both denominational factions.
In summary, the growing conflict between The United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church in Nigeria has manifested in violent incidents over property control. Tensions are heightened by differing opinions on church policies regarding inclusive practices. Bishop Emmanuel’s call for peace underscores the urgent need for both groups to address their disputes amicably, while recent violence illustrates the precarious situation in which these communities find themselves.
Original Source: www.christianpost.com
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