Answer #1 (Stay UMC)
The property would only yield income if it were sold. While certainly possible it is not likely that the property of “our ancestors” would ever be sold. The tithes that have been collected through the years were not made as an investment in property but rather as an investment in making disciples for the transformation of the world. It is also true that the sanctuary of AUMC was built in part with monies from the Conference. In 1955 Apportionment Dollars were given to our church to serve in partnership with the Auburn Wesley Foundation as an outreach. These dollars from the denomination help fund 25% of the building costs. It is this kind of partnership and connection that make us strong as a denomination. In a world that is divisive, we see unity as an important component of what it means to be United Methodist. To understand more about our connection as it relates to property we invite you to follow this link: https://www.gcfa.org/newsletter/2020/march/02/understanding-the-umc-trust-clause/
Answer #2 (Pro-Disaffiliation)
It is true that AUMC members have paid for the Church property and buildings over many generations. Most, if not all members did not know until recently that the local church did not own the property. The UMC can close churches or sell property because they own the land. The greatest security for our Church’s long-term survival would be to own our property and decide as a congregation on how best to use it to serve God.