Effort to reconcile the United Methodist Church in Nigeria (UMCN) with factional groups over alleged heresy has failed.
Speaking to newsmen, Tuesday, Resident Bishop of the Nigeria UMC in Gondum village of Shongom local government area of Gombe state, Mr. Yohana Wesle, said over the years, the Council of Bishops witnessed rancour and division.
Wesley said the Council of Bishop, United States, sent a representative, Bishop John Schol, to reconcile the factional groups but some were operating a parallel structure against the leadership of the UMCN which he presides over.
He said because of their action, UMC in Nigeria ruled that they were not part of the church.
“They are not recognised as members, and they have no function as far as UMCN is concerned,” he said.
He added that the coming of Bishop John Schol was to see whether they can bring them back, but the district’s superintendent said no because there are procedures in the book of discipline and the factional group exited the church for over three years.
On the position of same-sex marriage, the bishop reiterated the position of the church which describes the act as unholy.
Mr Schol said the aim of his visit was to create peace and unity so that the gospel of Jesus Christ can move forward.
“I have seen the deep passion and conviction of the people of Nigeria and by working together and being unified, we can do a great work in Nigeria.
“In terms of gay marriage in UMCN, each region will make its own decision, there will be no imposition.
“We will continue to work together to ensure unity and peace. The position of Nigeria about LGBT is clear, and they are allowed to operate according to Nigeria’s constitution,” he said.
Director of Connectional Ministry of Northern Nigeria UMC Annual Conference, Mr. Chipau Kiliyobas, said there were factions and the first faction broke away 12 years ago following the election of Bishop Wesley Yohana.
He said the second faction left the church because they were supporting regionalization which is LGBT in disguise.
