Highland Park, Texas – In a move aimed at preserving its identity, the Highland Park Methodist Church (HPMC) has asked a Texas court for a temporary restraining order (TRO) to prevent the United Methodist Church (UMC) from using the name “Highland Park United Methodist Church” (HPUMC). The church, which has worshiped at its Hillcrest Road and Mockingbird Lane building for more than 50 years, voted to leave the UMC denomination last month and now operates under the new name Highland Park Methodist Church.
Background of the dispute
The Texas Horizon League of the United Methodist Church disputes the validity of HPMC’s vote to separate. It continues to hold services under the HPUMC name at a separate location—University Park United Methodist Church—just a short distance away. Church leaders say the overlapping names have caused confusion among congregants and donors, many of whom are unsure which congregation they are supporting.
Legal action and arguments
In its TRO request, Highland Park Methodist Church argues that the United Methodist Church is infringing on a name it has used for more than half a century. The filing claims the UMC’s continued use of HPUMC creates a “likelihood of confusion” that could damage the church’s reputation and fundraising efforts. The church’s attorneys contend that the name is a trademark of the local congregation, not the national denomination.
Denominational response
The Texas Horizon League of the UMC maintains that the vote to leave was procedurally improper. It asserts that the Highland Park congregation remains part of the United Methodist Church and therefore retains the right to use the historic name. The league has not yet responded publicly to the TRO filing, but its legal counsel indicated that a non‑jury trial is scheduled for October 2027.
Impact on the local faith community
Both congregations serve the same neighborhood, and many families attend services at one location while supporting ministries at the other. Pastor John Miller of Highland Park Methodist Church said, “Our members deserve clarity. When they give to a ministry, they need to know exactly where their contributions are going.” He added that the church is confident in its legal position and hopes the court will protect the name that has been part of the community’s heritage for generations.
What’s next?
The court will review the TRO request and decide whether to issue an immediate injunction pending the full trial. If granted, the United Methodist Church would be required to cease using the HPUMC name until the case is resolved. Both sides have indicated they will continue to serve their congregations while the legal battle proceeds.
Community reaction
Local residents have expressed mixed feelings. Some longtime members of the original congregation feel the name change threatens a sense of continuity, while others welcome the opportunity for a fresh start under a new identity. The dispute underscores the broader challenges many faith communities face when navigating denominational affiliations and local traditions.
For now, Highland Park Methodist Church remains active in its Hillcrest Road building, offering worship services, youth programs, and community outreach under its historic name. The outcome of the legal fight will determine whether the United Methodist Church can continue using the same designation in the same neighborhood.
Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
