“Several themes emerged in the discussion on the microphones. From the “for” side, arguing for the removal of the churches, it was emphasized that the churches continued to advocate with National—proof they had not accepted the region’s decision at IMPACT 2025. It was also mentioned multiple times that the eight churches themselves viewed that egalitarian-practicing churches were beyond the bounds of their fellowship and so removing them was precisely what they themselves had been advocating for.
On the “against” side, arguing for retaining the churches that wanted to remain [one church already removed itself since IMPACT 2025], several themes emerged. Firstly, it was noted by several speakers that theological discussion had been repeatedly requested of the Board and was denied several times. Churches were thus being removed without ever discussing the relevant theological debate underpinning the dispute. In relation to this, at least two of the defense speeches argued against the contention, made repeatedly by FEB Pac leadership, that this isn’t a theological issue. On the contrary, it was argued that it is indeed a theological question whether this is a secondary issue, the sort which defines our boundaries as a fellowship, or a minor tertiary issue one.
A couple of the speakers also pointed out that a test of “joyful fellowship,” interpreted as it was by the Board, creates a problem when it is treated like a bylaw, and that the eight churches had indeed written of their desire to FEB Pac leadership to fellowship, save only that they could not, in good conscience, refrain from taking part in national dialogue and involvement around gender-related issues.”
…
“The elephant in the room during the discussion was the two-year process initiated by National Council in response to this dispute, and the call by over sixty Ontario churches to not remove churches during this process. In connection with this is the background relationship of Pacific to National and whether or not Pacific is permitted to contravene National Bylaws. Several of the churches expressed their desire to simply wait out the process. In the end, the delegates voted to remove the eight churches, with results ranging from 63 to 68% in favor. These churches are now no longer in the Fellowship, will have their benefits and licenses removed, and will no longer be able to partake in National processes on the Complementarian Congruency or Affirmation of Faith process.”
To access the entire summary: https://keepfebcomplementarian.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Summary-of-Speial-Meeting-to-Remove-Eight-Churches-Feb-7-2026.pdf
