“No Schism” button

The United Methodist Church held an international conference in St. Louis on February 23–27, 2019. Delegates met to discuss bans within the church on same-sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQIA+ clergy. After much debate, the conservative proposal, called the “Traditional Plan,” was passed by a vote of 438–384. Opponents supported a “One Church Plan” that would allow local churches to choose their own stance. The vote set up a potential for schism in the church as LGBT-friendly communities faced the decision to follow the official church stance or to break from the organization.

Object Title and Accession Number

“No Schism” button distributed at the United Methodist Church Conference. Made by Button Works, 2019. 2022-115-0001.