What Would the Protocol Do?
The Protocol allows for the formation of a new traditionalist Methodist denomination. The group anticipates that those churches in favor of the Traditional Plan would likely choose to leave the UMC. According to Feinberg, it was the group’s decision to have the more traditional churches leave the denomination even though the Traditional Plan won out at last year’s meeting. The Protocol facilitates an amicable split that allows these churches to leave the UMC with their property. The proposal would also give a new traditionalist denomination $25 million over the next four years. Another $39 million is allocated to “ensure there is no disruption in supporting ministries for communities historically marginalized by racism.” Finally, the Protocol allows for $2 million to go toward other groups that might decide to separate from the UMC but not join the new traditionalist denomination.
Feinberg explained that “about half a dozen” church financial experts were brought in to the mediation process to determine these monetary figures.
Still, Feinberg acknowledges there will be kinks to work out in the plan, if it passes in May. “I tell everybody who is congratulating us about this unanimous protocol, ‘Well, that’s all well and good, and congratulations is well deserved. Now, can the protocol be implemented by the thousands of constituents, the various organizations around the world? Not just in the United States—Africa, Asia, Europe?’” Feinberg believes that remains to be seen, but he is “cautiously optimistic.”
According to Rev. David Meredith, a member of the United Methodist Queer Clergy Caucus, the Protocol “ends the harm” to LGBTQ people within the church.
Delegates to the United Methodist General Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota will have a chance to vote on this proposal, as well as a handful of others, in May. Feinberg said he would like to attend the meeting, if the group will have him. Considering how many leaders thanked him for his important work during the live stream announcement, it’s apparent he would indeed be welcome.
