Thousands Petition Episcopal Church for Financial Transparency
By Lillian Kwon
Christian Post Reporter
Mon, Sep. 10 2007

Over 5,000 people have signed a petition demanding financial transparency from The Episcopal Church as the threat of schism looms closer over the global Anglican Communion weeks ahead of a critical deadline.

The petition specifically demands The Episcopal Church – the U.S. branch of Anglicanism – reveal how much money it has spent since 2004 on litigation against individuals and parishes.
One of the largest lawsuits filed by the U.S. denomination involves 11 Virginia churches that voted to leave in December. The breakaway Anglicans argue that The Episcopal Church has departed from Anglican tradition and orthodox Christianity. Their split with the American denomination was to remain faithful to the 77-milllion member Anglican Communion.

The petition for financial transparency had begun about a month ago, asking Episcopalians and conservative Anglicans if they had any concerns over The Episcopal Church's funding in the string of lawsuits. The American Anglican Council (AAC), which is keeping the petition open to get more voices heard, will most likely reveal the signatories, said AAC communications assistant Robert H. Lundy. the rest