The United Methodist Church is officially facing a divorce.

An independent mediation team of bishops and Methodist traditionalist, centrist and progressive members drafted a proposed separation agreement.

Methodists join the debate over the roles of LGBT clergy and same-sex marriage. Differing interpretations of Scripture concerning human sexuality has created deep schisms among Lutherans, Presbyterians and Episcopalians.

“I am deeply saddened by the potential split of the United Methodist Church,” said Dr. Cathy Jamieson, SC United Methodist Church Conference superintendent.

“It means that I may no longer be in the same denomination with clergy and laypeople that I love. I am hopeful that this potential separation may lead to less fighting and more focus on ministry and mission for the future.”

The proposed “Protocol of Reconciliation & Grace Through Separation” will be voted on at the Minneapolis, MN, UMC General Conference in May.

If the proposal passes, a new “traditionalist Methodist” denomination will be formed for those who hold to biblical views concerning marriage and sexuality.

Pastor Chris Ritter, a founding member of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, said, “We voted by a 54% margin to uphold church teachings on marriage.

“Talk of division is necessary because of significant differences of opinion about the role of Scripture in the church.”

A 2/3-majority vote of a church council would be required for a church to leave and join the new “Traditionalist Methodists.”

Departing churches will keep their buildings and all clergy their pensions.

Rev. Keith Boyette, President of the Wesleyan Covenant Association, said, “ A more conservative network of Orthodox Methodist laity, clergy, and churches, had been preparing for such a contingency for years.”

Pastor Jody Flowers of Chapin United Methodist said, “Leading voices across the varied theological spectrum of our denomination agree that some type of separation will occur.”

Flowers, whose congregation lines up with the traditionalists, said, “We will continue to be diligent in our efforts. Be assured that your leadership will continue to strive to be faithful to the Word of God in all ways, including its teaching related to human sexuality.

“The world is watching and so desperately needs to see United Methodist Christians who disagree with one another, love one another.”