Unraveling the Crisis: The Untold Story of Trinity United Methodist Church's Abrupt Closure

The United Methodist Church is facing a profound moral dilemma as numerous congregations disaffiliate in response to the denomination’s growing acceptance of LGBTQ+ ministers and congregants. This upheaval has left many traditional members grappling with feelings of loss and confusion, especially as the average age of congregants hovers around 57. With efforts to attract a younger audience proving unsuccessful, the future of many local churches hangs in the balance.

The Sudden Closure of Trinity United Methodist Church

One poignant example of this crisis is the recent closure of Trinity United Methodist Church in Eugene, a 74-year-old institution that abruptly shut its doors in November 2023. This closure was part of a troubling trend, as two other Methodist churches in the area had closed in previous years, all under the same pastoral leadership.

Congregants expressed mixed feelings about the closure. While some were relieved that the Lavender Network, Eugene’s leading queer resource network, would utilize the church space, many were bewildered by how a cherished community hub could reach such a dire conclusion.

A Commitment to Inclusion

Despite the United Methodist Church’s tumultuous history with LGBTQ+ issues, Trinity had made strides to become a welcoming space. In 2017, the church voted to become a Reconciling Ministry, committing itself to support LGBTQ+ members. Congregants actively participated in local events like Eugene Pride, often countering religious protests with messages of inclusivity.

The Day of Reckoning

On November 19, 2023, parishioners gathered, expecting guest pastor June Fothergill to lead the service. Instead, they were met by Rev. John Tucker, the Crater Lake District superintendent, who delivered the shocking news of the church’s immediate closure. The pulpit, previously a symbol of hope, was now shrouded in rainbow light, marking the end of an era.

Notably absent were Trinity's pastoral leaders, Deena Wolfe and Teri Watanabe, leaving many congregants feeling abandoned. Longtime member Joy Knutson, 84, reflected on the abruptness of the decision, stating, “It’s not a kind thing to do to elderly people who are on their last days, to lose their church and church family.”

The Fallout and Controversy

Just two days post-closure, the administrative assistant, Rebecca Wetmore-Cook, received a termination notice along with her last paycheck, leaving her stunned and confused about her role within the church she had served for over five years.

The Oregon-Idaho Conference of the United Methodist Church responded to the fallout by releasing a statement that echoed Tucker’s announcement. In the aftermath, tensions grew as congregants voiced concerns about the church leadership and the decisions leading to the closure.

Financial Strain and Controversial Decisions

Financial decisions related to a costly $97,000 kitchen renovation have cast a shadow over the church’s management. Congregants were encouraged to contribute despite the church having substantial endowment funds. Some members, like Cynthia Hurenkamp, expressed outrage, arguing that many congregants were elderly and had limited means. “They don’t have an extra penny,” she lamented.

As the renovation progressed, the church’s future remained uncertain, leading to speculation about the possible sale of the property. This speculation intensified when Watanabe invited a representative from the Yujin Gakuen Public Japanese Immersion School to discuss the school's need for a permanent space, raising further questions about the church's fate.

The Final Chapters

Ultimately, Trinity United Methodist Church was officially dissolved during the 2024 Annual Conference, with the majority of the congregation now seeking new places to worship. The building has since been repurposed as a community center for the LGBTQ+ population, a move that many former congregants see as a bittersweet resolution.

As the community mourns the loss of Trinity, it also recognizes the new opportunities arising from its closure. Former congregants continue to gather for services, determined to preserve the spirit of the church they once knew.

What do you think?

• Do you believe that churches should adapt to changing societal norms, or should they remain steadfast in tradition?
• How can faith communities better engage younger audiences without alienating older members?
• Is the closure of traditional churches a necessary evolution, or a tragic loss of community?
• What role should church leadership