The Episcopal Diocese of Long Island has filed suit [PDF] against two law firms, seeking to reclaim $205,000 in legal fees, according to Courthouse News Service.
Jakubik Law Firm and Silber Law Firm represented the majority of members at St. James’ Episcopal Church, Elmhurst, N.Y., who voted to separate from the diocese and the Episcopal Church in 2005.
The former Episcopalians regrouped as St. James’ Anglican Church, affiliated with the nascent Anglican Church in North America, and attempted to retain the parish buildings. The Supreme Court of Queens County ruled [PDF] in favor of the diocese in March 2008.
The diocese says the separating members paid legal fees from the parish’s bank and stock accounts.
St. James’ was founded in 1704 and chartered by King George III in 1761. The Rev. Samuel Seabury was one of its earliest rectors before he became the first bishop consecrated for what became the Episcopal Church.
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2 Comments
Just when I think the Episcopalians can't sink any lower, they resort to something like this. Absolutely disgraceful.
Sir, If I worked for your company and I choose to leave your employ; and later you discovered that I had used your company's funds to finance my relocation and set up a competing company, I am quite sure you would have a different opinion.