Coverage Summary: Frank Schaefer Case

The United Methodist pastor was reinstated after being defrocked in November 2013 for officiating at his son's same-gender nuptials. Read what The United Methodist Church teaches about human sexuality and follow continuing coverage of this high-profile case.


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now
Mission and Ministry
Sister Confianza, a member of the Amigas del Señor (Women Friends of the Lord) Monastery in Limón, Honduras, rides her bike through the village alongside a neighbor. Originally from the United States, Sister Confianza founded the monastery with another woman in 2006. Photo by Paul Jeffrey, UM News.

2025: The year in photos

United Methodists around the world are living into the denomination’s new vision to "love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.” UM News, the denomination's official news service, documented a year in the life of United Methodism worldwide.
General Conference
Whether you follow Twitter, Facebook or the United Methodist News site, timely stories on what’s happening at General Conference 2024 will be available. UM News photographer Mike DuBose was captured at work during the 2016 United Methodist General Conference in Portland, Ore. Photo by Kathleen Barry; graphic by Laurens Glass, UM News.

Following the news at General Conference

United Methodist Communications and United Methodist News have been preparing for the challenge of covering and publicizing developments of the long-delayed General Conference. Here’s how interested people can track the historic event, set for April 23-May 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Mission and Ministry
Tim Tanton, United Methodist Communications. Photo by Mike DuBose, UMNS.

Why church should care about press freedom

World Press Freedom Day is a time to reflect on the importance of newsgathering and the ties that connect freedom of expression and religion.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2026 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved