Episcopal Church property dispute returns to Fairfax courtroom

Ongoing issue centering around seven churches that wish to break away from Episcopal Diocese
by Gregg MacDonald
Monday April 25, 2011

 An ongoing legal battle between the Anglican District and Episcopal Diocese of Virginia that has already been heard by the state's highest court is once again being played out in Fairfax County, where it originally began. The opening arguments in the case began Monday in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Six weeks have been allotted for trial in the case of seven Virginia churches that broke away from the Episcopal Church in early 2007 to join a more conservative Anglican Church.

Of the original 11 churches that broke away from the Episcopal Diocese in 2007, seven continue to fight to retain their properties, estimated to be worth as much as $40 million. the rest


ADV press release: VA Anglicans Hold Fast to Historic Faith as Property Trial Begins
FAIRFAX, Va. (April 25, 2011) – The seven Anglican District of Virginia (ADV) congregations that are parties to the church property case brought by The Episcopal Church and the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia will present opening arguments today in the Fairfax County Circuit Court.

The opening arguments in the case fall on Easter Monday and six weeks have been allotted for trial. The current case is again being heard by the Fairfax Court after it was remanded by the Virginia Supreme Court in June. Previously, the congregations had succeeded in their efforts on the Circuit Court level to defend the property that they bought and paid for.

“We remain confident in our legal position and we continue to remain steadfast in our effort to defend the historic Christian faith,” said Jim Oakes, chairman of the Anglican District of Virginia, which is the umbrella organization for the seven Anglican congregations.

“While it’s unfortunate that The Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Virginia fell out of step with much of Christendom by choosing to redefine and reinterpret Scripture, we never wanted to end up in court. We were stunned when The Episcopal Church and the Diocese abruptly cut off amicable negotiations in early 2007. However, we feel we must defend our freedom of religion and the vital ministries that are housed inside our walls. Not only have our congregations purchased and maintained the properties over the years, the names of our trustees appear on the deeds.

“This past Easter Sunday reminds us that the Lord ultimately is in control. Our congregations will continue to pray and trust in the Lord. Regardless of the unfortunate distraction of the litigation, our churches will not compromise on our number one commitment, which is to advance Christ’s kingdom. Our doors remain open wide to all who wish to worship with us,” Oakes concluded.