Highland Park Methodist to Vote on Disaffiliation
The Dallas congregation will decide this Sunday whether to sever ties with the United Methodist Church conference.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Christianity
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Members of Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas are scheduled to vote on disaffiliation this Sunday, October 25, 2026. The decision follows a push from senior church leadership to leave the denomination, while other staff members urge congregants to reject the proposal.
Why it matters
Church leaders claim that the relationship with the regional conference has been damaged beyond repair, citing concerns over potential threats to clergy pensions and health benefits. Conversely, some members and former staff argue that more time for mediation is necessary before taking such a significant step.
The church has operated for 110 years, with current leadership citing a 14-minute video presentation as part of their push for separation. Former associate minister Susan Gorham Robb holds 38 years of membership and 20 years of staff service.
The players
Matt Tuggle
He is a senior minister at Highland Park United Methodist Church.
Paul Rasmussen
He is a senior minister at Highland Park United Methodist Church.
Mark Craig
He is a senior minister at Highland Park United Methodist Church.
Susan Gorham Robb
She is a former associate minister who served on the church staff for 20 years.
The details
Senior ministers Matt Tuggle, Paul Rasmussen, and Mark Craig have formally advocated for the split, while Susan Gorham Robb has publicly encouraged members to vote against the measure. Meanwhile, the United Methodist Church conference has filed and amended a lawsuit against the church, now seeking monetary damages.
Timeline
October 19, 2026: Susan Gorham Robb urged members to vote no.
October 21, 2026: Senior ministers posted a letter and video.
October 25, 2026: Church members to vote on disaffiliation.
Culture Shift
This vote is part of a larger nationwide wave of United Methodist disaffiliations that has seen many congregations re-evaluate their denominational ties. The movement reflects shifting internal values and institutional priorities within major American church organizations.
Residents and church members should be aware that the outcome of this vote could lead to significant changes in local church operations and property status. Additionally, the ongoing lawsuit filed by the church conference may result in continued uncertainty regarding the church's legal and financial standing.
The takeaway
The upcoming vote serves as a reminder of the significant administrative and legal complexities that arise when long-standing religious institutions consider changing their denominational affiliations. Members should carefully review the information provided by both sides of the leadership divide to understand the implications for their congregation.
Further reading
Learn more about the broader trends in Christianity currently affecting local congregations.
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Should local congregations sever ties with larger regional or national religious organizations?
