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The mission of the church in the UMC is to “make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,” whereas in the GMC it is to “make disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly.” Bishops provide leadership in both denominations but there are some differences.

While the phenomenon of speaking in tongues, commonly associated with Pentecostalism, was not an experience sought or promoted by early Methodists, other equally startling manifestations of the Spirit did abound. This was particularly so as Methodism spread across the American frontier.

United Methodist ChurchCongregations29,598 in the USMembers12,000,000+ (Central Conference numbers awaiting update and 5,714,815 in the US)Ministers83,800Aid organizationUnited Methodist Committee on Relief19 more rows

One-fifth of United Methodist congregations in the United States have received permission to leave the denomination over disagreements over same-sex marriage and gay preachers.

The GM Church's Social Witness statements clearly define marriage as between one man and one woman, while reserving sexual relationships for marriage. Without getting into partisan politics, it states a clear pro-life stance on unborn children, while calling for greater support for women with unanticipated pregnancies.

Western NC churches disaffiliating from United Methodists TitleCityDistrictCarson's ChapelTaylorsville, N.C.Appalachian DistrictClarksburyHarmony, N.C.Appalachian DistrictCool SpringCleveland, N.C.Appalachian DistrictCrestonCreston, N.C.Appalachian District16 more rows • May 9, 2023

The split in the Methodist Episcopal Church came in 1844. The immediate cause was a resolution of the General Conference censuring Bishop J. O. Andrew of Georgia, who by marriage came into the possession of slaves.

On April 30, 2008, General Conference voted to add "to be faithful in their witness" to the list of vows one takes upon becoming a member of The United Methodist Church. From now on, those joining a church will promise to be faithful through their prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness."