United Methodist Evangelicals See Growth despite Denominational Division

The Wesleyan Covenant Association, the largest group within the United Methodist Church, is growing despite some division in the church.

According to The Christian Post, the Wesleyan Covenant Association is also considered the “traditionalists” of the UMC. The association has a strong interpretation of the Bible, including traditionalist views on marriage and clergy. The group also adheres to evangelical beliefs and values.

WCA President Keith Boyette said more than 3,000 churches have affiliated with the association, and the group is growing. In August 2021, the next General Conference will show that growth, he added.

This year‘s conference was canceled amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

“There’s been no pause at all for us,” Boyette says. “We’re working vigorously toward a new, theologically conservative, global Methodist church.”

Boyette said he is hoping the WCA can be part of that new traditionalist church.

“The association will act as a midwife in launching the resulting denomination,” Boyette said.

Traditionalist within the church have argued that UMC evangelism is sometimes too focused on “social gospel of good works” instead of Jesus as salvation.

“Social justice is important — the transformation in us never ends — but the first step is beginning a relationship with Christ,” says the Rev. Thacker Haynes, senior pastor of…