A Response to the Auburn Methodist Coalition Lawsuit

The Alabama-West Florida Conference (AWF) of the United Methodist Church is aware of the lawsuit filed by a group named the “Auburn Methodist Coalition” requesting the court intervene in the disaffiliation process and issue an injunction. The Administrative Board of Auburn United Methodist Church (AUMC), the leadership body of the church, voted on April 24, 2023, to not pursue disaffiliation as outlined in paragraph 2553 in the Book of Discipline. Furthermore, this vote ended discussions and the process related to disaffiliation for AUMC. While some members of that outside organization are technically members, they do not represent the leadership of Auburn United Methodist Church. We are saddened by this litigation, but we are confident the process we have adhered to is fair and just. Our primary focus continues to be on the mission of The United Methodist Church to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. That is unchanging. We pray for all involved and will model grace, love and kindness throughout this process.

-The Alabama-West Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church