Church Conference at Canton First UMC
For the purpose of voting on disaffiliation
Location: Sanctuary
Wednesday, June 14 at 6:30PM
Information Sessions for Church Conference
Location: Sanctuary
Sunday, June 4 at 12:15PM
Wednesday, June 7 at 11:00AM
Monday, June 12 at 7:00PM
The information presented will be the same at each session. Members of our Governing Board will conduct the meetings, and they will be available to answer questions after the session.
This is a challenging and difficult time for The United Methodist Church. As a denomination we are in a season of transition and division; however, this is not unprecedented, nor does it have to be a time of strife. The scriptures record many examples of God’s people separating in amicable ways that result in healthier relationships and honor God. Our Wesleyan heritage is also filled with numerous examples of the people called Methodist who feel God calling them to a different path of ministry.
In the current situation of the UMC, local congregations and pastors are faced with major decisions on whether to remain in the United Methodist Church, join the newly formed Global Methodist Church, become an independent church, or join another denomination. The options can be overwhelming! However, if we the people of Canton First pray and discern together God’s calling of us, we will emerge from this struggle stronger than ever.
The role of the Governing Board is to provide objective and accurate information for you so that together we may prayerfully discern our future. We are finding that people on all sides of the denominational division are sometimes sharing misleading information so our hope is that the information on this website will help every member of Canton First to better understand the options.
Remain in the United Methodist Church |
Go Independent or Join Another Denomination |
Join the Global Methodist Church |
How can you cut through the chaos and hear God’s voice? First, examine your own heart. Do you have a heart of peace or a heart of war? Second, be still and pray. Pray not only so that God hears your desires, but also listen to hear God’s voice. Also, study God’s Word and listen for the Holy Spirit to speak to you. Next, listen to one another and have conversations around the hard questions. Seek wise counsel from your pastors and leaders. Do your homework. Be informed.
The Governing Board conducted congregational meetings in May - August of 2022 open for all members to attend. These meetings provided opportunities for members to learn more about future affiliation options should the church vote to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church.
Church Family, please be in prayer for our church and our denomination. Please pray for guidance and wisdom for our congregation, our staff, and our Governing Board members as we discern God’s plan and God’s path for Canton First.
Video Resources | In Support of Disaffiliation from the UMC
Rev. Kenny Ott, Lead Pastor
Susan Dreschel, Governing Board Chair
Dave Sullivan, Lay Leader