Bloomington Church Considers Denominational Split
Members of Cornerstone Christian Church are set to vote on disaffiliation following the dismissal of their minister.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Christianity
Live Poll
Should a local church disaffiliate from its national denomination after leadership is accused of misconduct?
Cornerstone Christian Church in Bloomington plans to vote on separating from the Assemblies of God denomination on November 1. This move follows the district office's decision to dismiss the ministerial credentials of David Wigington.
Why it matters
The decision to potentially leave the national fellowship comes after an investigation into allegations of misconduct against Wigington. His removal has prompted both leadership changes and a reevaluation of the church's denominational affiliation.
The Indiana District Council investigation, which included a third-party forensic expert, led to the loss of credentials for David Wigington. Organizations including Project Rescue and The Stone Table have also severed ties with the 54-year-old minister.
The players
David Wigington
The 54-year-old minister recently had his credentials dismissed by the Assemblies of God district office following an investigation.
Cornerstone Christian Church
A Bloomington-based congregation currently evaluating its formal relationship with the Assemblies of God denomination.
Jo Fipps
An individual currently facing a criminal misdemeanor charge of computer trespass in connection with a business office entry.
Indiana District Council
The regional governing body of the Assemblies of God that conducted the investigation into ministerial misconduct.
The details
Following reports of unauthorized computer access at his business office on October 1, the Monroe County Prosecutor charged Jo Fipps with criminal misdemeanor computer trespass. Church leadership announced the upcoming vote on bylaw changes and potential disaffiliation after a meeting held on October 18.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: David Wigington reported unauthorized office entry.
October 18, 2026: Cornerstone Christian Church leaders held an investigation-related meeting.
November 1, 2026: Congregation members will vote on potential disaffiliation.
December 10, 2026: Pretrial conference scheduled for Jo Fipps.
Culture Shift
This dispute reflects the broader trend of congregational autonomy within American evangelical denominations, where local bodies increasingly reevaluate their alignment with national governing structures. The move mirrors past denominational splits that occurred when local churches and regional councils diverged on internal governance or leadership accountability.
Members of Cornerstone Christian Church face significant changes to their congregational governance as they head to a vote on November 1. Residents and stakeholders may experience shifts in church operations and programming depending on the outcome of the disaffiliation decision.
The takeaway
Congregational disputes often intensify when administrative investigations into leadership overlap with local legal proceedings. Establishing clear communication and bylaw guidelines remains essential for churches navigating periods of institutional transition.
Further reading
Learn more about local religious developments in Bloomington Christianity.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Hoosier Times.
Live Poll
Should a local church disaffiliate from its national denomination after leadership is accused of misconduct?
