Church Tensions: United Methodist Exodus | Right Bias

U.S. Media

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14 days

Summary

sources
13
Narrative Items
18
Bottom Line Up Front

13 sources in U.S. Media are amplifying 18 narrative items relating to the narrative of a property dispute between the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church. This conflict highlights broader themes of religious division over LGBT issues, illustrating how theological disagreements can lead to significant institutional and financial ramifications.

Reviewing a number of the most relevant narrative items indicates that the Christian Post characterizes the mediation between the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the Global Methodist Church (GMC) in a predominantly positive light, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in the face of division. The language used is notably supportive, as phrases like “constructive mediation” and “seeking unity” are employed, which evoke a sense of hope and resolution. However, there are hints of loaded language when referencing the UMC's changes on LGBT issues, subtly framing them as a source of turmoil and encouraging congregations to transition to the GMC. While the coverage underscores the need for peace and understanding, it simultaneously reflects a bias toward conservative viewpoints, as it presents the GMC's stance more favorably without equally addressing the UMC's perspective. Comparatively, other outlets may focus more broadly on the implications for both sides, but the Christian Post remains firmly planted in supporting traditional values, potentially molding perceptions among its audience.

About This Module

The U.S. Media module tracks a broad range of American media sources, including major television, cable, print, and online organizations.

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Sources

Sources by Type
Sources of these types represent most of the amplification activity around this narrative
sources by Volume
These sources are amplifying the most items involved in this narrative. Click to see details of each source's narrative activity.
Top sources
Day-by-day volumetric activity of sources amplifying the most items around this narrative
Christian Post
17% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
ArcaMax
11% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
11% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Oregonian
11% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Washington Times
6% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Chicago Tribune
6% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Boston Herald
6% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Dallas Morning News
6% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
Savannah Morning News
6% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
The Augusta Chronicle
6% of the items in this brief were amplified by this source.
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Top Items

These narrative items are the most relevant and/or the most amplified. Click to see details and suggested messages.
Amplifiers:
Christian Post
christianpost.com
Liberian lawmakers overseeing mediation between UMC, Global Methodist churches amid dispute   
Liberian lawmakers mediate a property dispute between the United Methodist Church (UMC) and the Global Methodist Church (GMC). The conflict stems from the UMC's recent changes regarding LGBT issues, causing many conservative congregations, including some in Liberia, to join the GMC. Mediation aims to de-escalate tensions and determine asset ownership.
Amplifiers:
Christian Post
christianpost.com
UMC bishop, other Methodists attacked in Nigeria while doing ministry work
In Nigeria, United Methodist Bishop Ande Emmanuel and his entourage were attacked during ministry work. This violence follows ongoing conflict between the UMC and the Global Methodist Church over property and affiliation, exacerbated by Nigeria's existing issues with religious extremism and violence. The UMC condemns the attack and calls for peace.
Amplifiers:
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
star-telegram.com
Texas’ biggest health insurer may drop these Tarrant County hospitals from some plans
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and Southwestern Health Resources must agree on a new contract by April 1st. Failure to do so will remove over two dozen North Texas hospitals, including major facilities, from seven Blue Cross plans, potentially impacting many Obamacare users. While negotiations continue, concerns exist about the hospitals' removal from online provider databases.
Amplifiers:
Dallas Morning News
dallasnews.com
Five questions with Sanderia Faye, Dallas’ literary connector
Sanderia Faye, head of the Dallas Literary Festival, discusses Dallas's low literacy rates and lack of investment in literature despite its generous people. She highlights the festival's growth and wishes for increased city support, suggesting a novel about John Wiley Price and Emma Rodgers, influential Dallas figures.
Amplifiers:
Christian Post
christianpost.com
The collapse of Protestant churches can teach us something
Declining membership in Protestant churches, even conservative ones like the Southern Baptist Convention, highlights a crisis stemming from prioritizing administrative agencies over local ministry and a loss of theological conviction. The embrace of progressive ideologies, neglecting core beliefs, contributes to irrelevance. This necessitates a return to foundational truths and a re-evaluation of institutional priorities.
Amplifiers:
The Jewish Press
jewishpress.com
The Antisemitism Of William T. Sherman – And His Great Admiration For A Jewish Actress
Despite his antisemitism, General William Tecumseh Sherman admired actress Rose Eytinge. Sherman's harsh Civil War tactics contrasted with his personal appreciation for Eytinge, a popular Jewish-American actress whose career spanned several decades. His antisemitic views were shared by General Grant, culminating in the infamous General Order No. 11, later revoked by Lincoln.
Amplifiers:
Oregonian
oregonlive.com
Bethany Muslim community is building ‘a place to call ours’
Bethany's Masjid Ibrahim Muslim community, currently using temporary spaces, is nearing completion of its new mosque. The 17,000-square-foot building will serve as a place of worship, community center, and educational space for the growing congregation, fulfilling a long-held desire for a permanent home. Despite initial neighbor opposition, construction continues, fueled by community fundraising and support.
Amplifiers:
The College Fix
thecollegefix.com
Florida lawmaker wants to allow concealed carry on campus, citing recent violent protests | The College Fix
A Florida bill proposes allowing concealed carry on college campuses, citing recent violent protests as justification. The bill's sponsor argues for self-defense rights, while student groups oppose it, fearing increased campus danger. Currently, only eleven states permit concealed carry on campuses, with others leaving the decision to individual institutions.
Amplifiers:
Chicago Tribune
chicagotribune.com
Today in Chicago History: ‘Diamond Joe’ Esposito gunned down
This article details Chicago events from March 21st across different years: 1928 saw the assassination of "Diamond Joe" Esposito; 1982, raids on a sports betting operation; 1985, Loyola Ramblers' NCAA tournament run; and 2012, the fatal police shooting of Rekia Boyd. Weather data for March 21st is also included.
Amplifiers:
Savannah Morning News
savannahnow.com
The 36th annual Savannah Music Festival is like a passport to a dozen countries in 16 days
The Savannah Music Festival (March 27-April 11) offers a diverse 16-day musical journey spanning numerous countries. Affordable tickets allow exploration of genres from blues to classical. Highlights include DakhaBrakha, BeauSoleil, and Angelique Kidjo, plus workshops, masterclasses, and free student events. Don't miss the intimate classical performances at Trinity United Methodist Church.
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Entities

Tap or click for details
These entities are mentioned most frequently in the narratives highlighted in this brief. Click to see details of narrative activity related to each one.
People
Liberian Lawmakers
Members of the legislative body in Liberia involved in mediating the dispute.
United Methodist Church (UMC)
A mainline Protestant denomination that has faced internal conflict over LGBT issues.
Global Methodist Church (GMC)
A newly formed denomination that appeals to conservative congregations leaving the UMC.
Narratives
Conflict Origin
The conflict originated from UMC's changes regarding LGBT issues.
Conservative Congregations' Response
Many conservative congregations, including those in Liberia, have joined GMC in response to UMC's changes.
Decisions
Mediation Decision
The decision by Liberian lawmakers to mediate the property dispute.
Asset Ownership Determination
The goal of the mediation to clarify who owns the church properties.
Controversies
LGBT Issues in UMC
The internal conflict within the UMC regarding the acceptance and treatment of LGBT individuals.
Property Dispute
The conflict over the ownership of church properties between UMC and GMC.
Denominations
United Methodist Church (UMC)
A denomination that has been undergoing changes regarding LGBT issues.
Global Methodist Church (GMC)
A denomination formed by conservative congregations that oppose UMC's stance on LGBT issues.
People
Liberian Lawmakers
Members of the legislative body in Liberia involved in mediating the dispute.
United Methodist Church (UMC)
A mainline Protestant denomination that has faced internal conflict over LGBT issues.
Global Methodist Church (GMC)
A newly formed denomination that appeals to conservative congregations leaving the UMC.
Narratives
Conflict Origin
The conflict originated from UMC's changes regarding LGBT issues.
Conservative Congregations' Response
Many conservative congregations, including those in Liberia, have joined GMC in response to UMC's changes.
Decisions
Mediation Decision
The decision by Liberian lawmakers to mediate the property dispute.
Asset Ownership Determination
The goal of the mediation to clarify who owns the church properties.
Controversies
LGBT Issues in UMC
The internal conflict within the UMC regarding the acceptance and treatment of LGBT individuals.
Property Dispute
The conflict over the ownership of church properties between UMC and GMC.
Denominations
United Methodist Church (UMC)
A denomination that has been undergoing changes regarding LGBT issues.
Global Methodist Church (GMC)
A denomination formed by conservative congregations that oppose UMC's stance on LGBT issues.

Context

Liberia, a nation founded by freed American slaves, has a complex demographic and social landscape. The population is predominantly Christian, with a significant portion belonging to the United Methodist Church (UMC). The recent schism within the UMC over LGBT issues reflects broader global debates on social values, particularly in conservative societies like Liberia, where traditional views on sexuality prevail. This conflict has led to the emergence of the Global Methodist Church (GMC), attracting congregations that oppose the UMC's progressive stance.

Economically, Liberia faces challenges, including high unemployment and reliance on agriculture and natural resources. The country is still recovering from a devastating civil war that ended in 2003, which has left lasting scars on its political and social fabric. The mediation between the UMC and GMC is not just a religious issue but also a reflection of the ongoing struggle for social cohesion in a nation still grappling with its identity and values.

Politically, Liberia's governance is characterized by a fragile democracy, with lawmakers often mediating conflicts to maintain stability. The property dispute highlights the intersection of religion and politics, as lawmakers seek to prevent escalation that could lead to civil unrest. Geographically, Liberia's coastal location and rich natural resources pose both opportunities and vulnerabilities, particularly in terms of national security. The country must navigate external influences and internal divisions while fostering a sense of unity among its diverse population.

In summary, the mediation between the UMC and GMC is emblematic of Liberia's broader social, economic, and political challenges, as the nation strives to balance tradition with modernity in a rapidly changing world.
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