Judge OKs Arkansas church’s lawsuit against liberal UMC to save church property

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(Christian Post) A judge has refused to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a congregation that voted to leave The United Methodist Church and took issue with the conditions over securing its church property.

First United Methodist Church of Jonesboro, Arkansas, filed a lawsuit against The UMC Arkansas Conference last year, arguing that the regional body has no right to its property.

Judge Gary Arnold decided on Tuesday to allow First UMC’s lawsuit to go forward, rejecting a motion to dismiss the complaint and scheduling a trial for Jan. 29, 2024, The Sun reported.

A couple of days before the ruling, Arkansas Bishop Laura Merrill announced her decision to appoint the Rev. Britt Skarda as interim pastor for First UMC, with him assuming the role effective Wednesday until June 30.

First UMC’s pastor, the Rev. John Miles, was suspended in December, reportedly due to his holding a…

Judge allows Arkansas church’s lawsuit against UMC to go forward | Church & Ministries News