what does the umc book of discipline say about open carry

The UMC Book of Discipline does not appear to specifically endorse open carry in churches; instead, UMC materials commonly point toward restricting guns on church property and reducing gun violence. A UMC article says congregations are “to display signs that prohibit carrying guns onto church property,” which is the clearest practical guidance I found on the issue.

What that means

The Book of Discipline is the church’s governing and policy framework, while related UMC resolutions and guidance address gun policy more directly. In practice, the denomination’s public-facing guidance leans against open carry on church property rather than allowing it freely.

Why this matters

If you are asking about a specific local church, the answer may also depend on state law and the church’s own policies. The UMC’s general posture is to support violence prevention, legal compliance, and signs prohibiting firearms on church property.

Helpful takeaway

So, the short version is: UMC guidance trends against open carry in churches, and local congregations are encouraged to post prohibitive signs. If you need the exact disciplinary language for a conference, district, or annual conference policy, that can vary by jurisdiction and local church practice.