Harvest bolts from UMC, denomination boosts its legal team

Like hundreds of other congregations, Harvest had become disgusted with UMC stands on social issues, including same-sex marriage.
Like hundreds of other congregations, Harvest had become disgusted with UMC stands on social issues, including same-sex marriage.
Published: Jan. 26, 2023 at 6:14 PM CST
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DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) - Harvest Dothan has voted to be secede from the United Methodist Church, according to multiple members.

Like hundreds of other congregations, it had become disgusted with UMC stands on social issues, including same-sex marriage.

The congregation’s break comes with legal repercussions, as a lawsuit expressing fears that UMC leadership will attempt to seize the church is pending.

That suit was paused in November but could resume following the separation vote.

Harvest has not made a public statement since the vote to leave the church, nor has it revealed financial implications of the exodus that likely includes a hefty buyout.

Highly regarded Dothan attorney David Johnston joined the UMC defense team this week, according to records.

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