To The Reader’s Forum:

Jeff Winton’s article “Disappointed with Disaffiliation” sadly misrepresents the true reason for several churches in Chautauqua County leaving the United Methodist Church. The LGBTQ+ is not the main reason for disaffiliation.

These churches are not “opposed to the teaching of Jesus.” Everyone is welcomed in their churches. They may not fly flags and paint their entrance with a rainbow, but it doesn’t mean all people are not welcome.

The true issue for disaffiliation is because they believe the Bible is the Word of God and it hasn’t changed. Jesus died to redeem people from their sins. He was all about forgiveness and restoration. When a denomination stops preaching the Word of God, the churches must leave if they choose to obey God, no matter how painful it is.

Lakewood