Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the United Methodist Church are involved in a legal dispute that has reached the Texas Supreme Court.
The conflict stems from SMU’s attempt to amend its articles of incorporation in 2019, seeking to assert independence from its founding denomination.
The university’s move, which removed church oversight from its board of trustees, followed the church’s controversial decision to prohibit same-sex marriages and clergy.
The church’s South Central Jurisdictional Conference filed a lawsuit against SMU, arguing that the university lacks the legal authority to make such amendments without church approval.
The Methodist Church claims that it retains certain rights, including governance over SMU, based on the founding documents of the university.
The legal battle has seen several court rulings, with Texas’ Fifth Court of Appeals siding with the church, asserting its right to control the university’s governance.
The Texas Supreme Court will now hear oral arguments, with the outcome potentially setting a precedent for similar disputes between religious organizations and affiliated institutions.
SMU President Gerald Turner has expressed the university’s position, emphasizing its need for autonomy to continue serving a diverse student body. The Methodist Church maintains that its historical connection to SMU is vital for preserving the university’s Methodist identity and values.