Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The Listening and Learning Task Force is sharing much of the information received from many members of AUMC. We also feel that we are blessed to be a part of a diverse church that is supported by members with many opinions. It takes a super majority of members to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church and it will be up to the Administrative Board to make the decision as to whether to enter the Discernment process. It is their responsibility to discern what is best for AUMC. Many churches have found that unless the Board is certain that a 67% vote could be obtained, it is better to remain as united as possible rather than enter a divisive process. The AUMC Administrative Board is faced with a challenging decision. We invite you to follow this link which may help you understand this important process: https://www.gcfa.org/newsletter/2020/march/02/understanding-the-umc-trust-clause/
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
The requirement for the vote to disaffiliate to pass is 2/3 of all professing members present at the vote. The decision on whether to have a Discernment period is not dependent on a prediction of what a future vote on disaffiliation would possibly be. A formal Discernment period gives all members the opportunity to be fully educated and informed of all issues so that they can then be equipped to make a decision based on truth and accuracy on the day of the vote.