Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
As described in Answer #2, Paragraph 2553 allows for disaffiliation only for reasons of conscience regarding the issue of human sexuality. While many other issues continue to be raised, they are not valid reasons to disaffiliate from the UMC. We give thanks that “the United Methodist Church affirms that all people are of sacred worth and are equally valuable in the sight of God. It is committed to be in ministry with all people. The Church “implores families and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends.” To read more about the UMC current stance on homosexuality please follow this link: https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-churchs-position-on-homosexuality
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
Paragraph 2553 states, “Because of the current, deep conflict within the UMC around issues of human sexuality, a local church shall have a limited right under the provisions of this paragraph, to disaffiliate from the denomination for reasons of conscience regarding a change in the requirements and provisions of the Book of Discipline related to the practice of homosexuality or the ordination or marriage of self-avowed practicing homosexuals as resolved and adopted by the 2019 General Conference, or the actions or inactions of its annual conference related to these issues.” This paragraph in the Book of Discipline is the only exit plan for a church wishing to disaffiliate. The issue of human sexuality is a presenting symptom of the much more important issues of theology regarding the authority and supremacy of Holy Scripture.