Decade-Long Battle Reaches High Court
Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the South Central Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church (UMC) were set to argue their case before the Texas Supreme Court on January 15. The dispute centers on SMU’s 2019 decision to amend its articles of incorporation, declaring its board of trustees as the university’s ultimate authority rather than the UMC. This legal battle follows significant turmoil within the church over LGBTQ+ policies.
The Roots of the Conflict
In 2019, the UMC endorsed bans on LGBTQ+ clergy and same-sex marriages, sparking a split in the denomination. Thousands of conservative congregations disaffiliated to form the Global Methodist Church. Amid this division, SMU took steps to secure its independence, with President R. Gerald Turner emphasizing the need for inclusivity. Turner stated the university sought to educate students of all beliefs without being tied to one sect of Methodism. However, the UMC argues that SMU’s incorporation documents permanently grant the church certain governance rights, including veto power over amendments.
Legal Tug-of-War
The UMC initially sued SMU in 2019, contending the university lacked the authority to amend its governing documents unilaterally. In 2021, a district judge ruled in SMU’s favor, but the Fifth Court of Appeals reversed the decision in 2023, siding with the church. The UMC claims it retains ownership of SMU and other institutions, citing its foundational role in establishing the university in 1911.
Stakeholders Voice Concerns
Supporters of SMU’s independence view the move necessary to maintain academic and religious inclusivity amid evolving societal norms. Critics, including the UMC, argue the university’s actions undermine decades of church stewardship and governance.
Broader Implications for Both Sides
The outcome could have wide-reaching implications for church-affiliated institutions navigating internal denominational conflicts. The Texas Supreme Court’s decision will likely set a precedent for other regional church-university relationships.
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SMU’s bid to split from United Methodist Church over LGBTQ+ rights heads to Texas Supreme Court
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