Deep divisions over homosexuality have caused a significant split within the United Methodist Church (UMC) in Zimbabwe, with Simon Mafunda and James Kawadza leading a new splinter group.
This development follows the UMC’s recent decision at the General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, allowing the ordination of gay and lesbian clergy and the solemnization of same-sex marriages in the U.S.
The decision prompted a mass exodus of conservative members globally, including significant resistance from African delegates who advocated for “regionalization,” allowing each continent to set its worship rules.
Despite this, some members argue that the UMC’s “connectional” nature still links them to the American church’s acceptance of LGBTQ clergy.
In Zimbabwe, the split mirrors recent events in South Africa, where differences over gay issues led to the formation of the Johannesburg North Methodist Church, breaking away from the Johannesburg United Methodist Church.
Similarly, in Nigeria, a notable faction led by John Wesley Yohanna has joined the new Global Methodist Church, despite a structured process for maintaining unity within the UMC.
The breakaway groups oppose the church’s progressive stance on homosexuality.
