Monday, December 14, 2009

Valley properties contested after Episcopal Church split


From The Fresno Bee-

Two years ago this week, the Diocese of San Joaquin seceded from the U.S. Episcopal Church, launching a legal battle over church property that is now headed toward a decisive showdown.
The rebel diocese changed its name and became a founding member of a new church, the Anglican Church in North America. But religious and legal experts say holding on to its property -- including real estate and cash -- will prove to be far more challenging.

Already, a Fresno County Superior Court judge has handed a critical victory to the national Episcopal church, which sued not long after the San Joaquin diocese voted to break away. The diocese is appealing that July ruling.

Several legal issues in the case remain to be decided. But even the breakaway diocese acknowledges it will likely lose if it cannot persuade the 5th District Court of Appeal to overturn Judge Adolfo Corona's ruling.

As both sides wage a battle of legal briefs in the state appeals court and await its decision, about $1 million in diocesan assets remains frozen.

More here-

http://www.fresnobee.com/lifestyle/faith-and-values/story/1746401.html

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