Presbytery of New Covenant, Inc. v. First Presbyterian Church of Houston ( 2015 )

ACCEPTED
14-15-00178-cv
FOURTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS
HOUSTON, TEXAS
12/21/2015 11:31:57 AM
CHRISTOPHER PRINE
CLERK
NO. 14-15-00178-CV
RECEIVED IN
14th COURT OF APPEALS
IN THE FOURTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS HOUSTON, TEXAS
HOUSTON, TEXAS 12/21/2015 11:31:57 AM
CHRISTOPHER A. PRINE
Clerk
PRESBYTERY OF NEW COVENANT, INC.,
Appellant
v.
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HOUSTON,
Appellee
AMICUS BRIEF OF
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO
IN SUPPORT OF APPELLEE
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HOUSTON
On Appeal from the 234th Judicial District Court
of Harris County, Texas
Trial Court Cause No. 2014-30354
David B. West
State Bar No. 21196400
DWest@dykema.com
Ellen B. Mitchell
State Bar No. 14208875
EMitchell@dykema.com
DYKEMA COX SMITH
112 East Pecan Street, Suite 1800
San Antonio, Texas 78205
(210) 554-5500 – Telephone
(210) 226-8395 – Telecopier
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page(s)
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES.................................................................................... iii
IDENTIFICATION OF AMICUS CURIAE.............................................................2
DISCLOSURE OF FEE SOURCE............................................................................2
ISSUE PRESENTED.................................................................................................2
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT .................................................................................2
ARGUMENT AND AUTHORITIES........................................................................5
I. The Trust Clause of the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church
(USA) should be reviewed under the neutral principles of law
methodology set out in Masterson...................................................................5
II Injunctive relief is essential to protect judicial review of church
property rights................................................................................................10
III. The language of the injunction is constitutional........................................... 19
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE...................................................................... 25
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE ................................................................................26
ii
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES
Page(s)
Cases
Carrollton Presbyterian Church v. Presbytery of South Louisiana,
77 So. 3d 975 .....................................................................................19, 20, 21, 22
Carrollton Presbyterian Church v. Presbytery of South Louisiana of
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
172 S.W.3d 1, 2015 (La. Ct. App. 2015), writ denied, 171 So. 3d
257 (La. May 22, 2015) ......................................................................................18
Disabato v. South Carolina Association of School Administrators,
404 S.C. 433, 746 S.E.2d 329 (2013) .................................................................21
First and Calvary Presbyterian Church v. John Calvin Presbytery,
Cause No. 1531-CC00924, In the Circuit Court of Greene County,
Missouri ..............................................................................................................21
First Presbyterian Church of Greenwood, Inc. v. Presbytery of St.
Andrew, Presbyterian Church U.S.A., Inc.,
Cause No. G15-0064, In the Chancery Court of Leflore County,
Mississippi ..........................................................................................................21
First Presbyterian Church of Houston v. Presbytery of New Covenant,
Inc.,
2014-30354, 234th Judicial District Court, Harris County, Texas.....................21
First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio v. Mission Presbytery,
Cause No. 2015-CI-07858, 73rd Judicial District Court, Bexar
County, Texas .................................................................................................8, 20
First Presbyterian Church PCUSA of Starkville, Mississippi v.
Presbytery of St. Andrew, Presbyterian Church U.S.A., Inc.,
Cause No. 2015-0151-D, In the Chancery Court of Oktibbeha
County, Mississippi ............................................................................................21
First Presbyterian Church of Schenectady v. United Presbyterian
Church,
62 N.Y.2nd 110, 120, 121, 476 N.Y.S. 2nd 86, 464 N.E.2d 454
(1984)..................................................................................................................21
iii
First Presbyterian Church of Wichita Falls v. Palo Duro Presbytery,
Cause No. 182,783-B, 78th Judicial District Court, Wichita
County, Texas .....................................................................................................21
Fluker v. Hitchens,
419 So. 2d 445 (La. 1982) ...................................................................................21
Harris v. Quinn,
134 S. Ct. 2618 (2014).........................................................................................21
Highland Park Presbyterian Church, Inc. v. Grace Presbytery, Inc.,
Cause No. DC-13-10605, 298th Judicial District Court, Dallas
County, Texas .....................................................................................................21
Highland Park Presbyterian Church, Inc. v. Grace Presbytery, Inc.,
Civil Action No. 3:13-CV-3813-B, United States District Court,
Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division.......................................................21
Jones v. Wolf,
443 U.S. 595 (1979)......................................................................................22, 23
Khaledi v. H.K. Global Trading, Ltd.,
126 S.W.3d 273 (Tex. App.–San Antonio 2003, no pet.) ..................................23
Masterson v. Diocese of Northwest Texas,
422 S.W.3d 594 (Tex. 2013) ............................................. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 22
NACCP v. Alabama,
357 U.S. 449 (1958)............................................................................................21
New Covenant Presbyterian Church, Inc. v. MP of South Louisiana of
the Presbyterian Church (USA),
Suit Number 602832; Section 27, 19th Judicial District Court, East
Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana........................................................................... 21
Presbytery of Beaver Builder v. Middlesex,
489 A.2nd 1317, 1324 (PA 1985).......................................................................21
Presbytery of Donegal v. Calhoun¸
999 PA. Cmwlth 300, 513 A.2nd 531 (1986).....................................................21
iv
Presbytery of New York v. McGee, Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.)Permanent Judicial Council (2014) ........................................................7
Robert v. United States Jaycees,
468 U.S. 609 (1984)............................................................................................21
Serbian E. Orthodox Diocese v. Milivojevich,
426 U.S. 696 (1976)......................................................................................19, 22
Tom v. Presbytery of San Francisco, Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.)Permanent Judicial Council (2012) ........................................................7
Rules
TEX. R. APP. P. 9.4(i)(1)...........................................................................................25
Statutes
TEX. BUS. ORG. CODE § 2.101(19).............................................................................4
TEX. BUS. ORG. CODE §§ 22.105-22.107 ...................................................................8
Other Authorities
BLACK’S LAW DICTIONARY, Eighth Edition ..............................................................4
U.S. CONST., Amend. I .............................................................................4, 19, 21, 23
v
NO. 14-15-00178-CV
IN THE FOURTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS
HOUSTON, TEXAS
PRESBYTERY OF NEW COVENANT, INC.,
Appellant,
v.
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HOUSTON,
Appellee
AMICUS BRIEF OF
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO
IN SUPPORT OF APPELLEE
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HOUSTON
TO THE HONORABLE FOURTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS AT HOUSTON,
NOW COMES First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (“FPC San
Antonio”) and submits this Amicus Brief in Support of Appellee First Presbyterian
Church of Houston (“FPC Houston”) to assist the Fourteenth Court of Appeals in
resolving the questions before it in this appeal.
1
IDENTIFICATION OF AMICUS CURIAE
First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio is a church located in San
Antonio, Texas and is a non-profit corporation organized under the laws of the
State of Texas.
DISCLOSURE OF FEE SOURCE
The fees for preparation of this Amicus Brief are being paid by First
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio.
ISSUE PRESENTED
The issue presented is whether First Presbyterian Church of Houston holds
title to its property free and clear of a claim of beneficial interest by the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT
In the past five years, several hundred local churches have withdrawn or
attempted to withdraw from membership in the PCUSA. The question is whether,
in doing so, the local church retains ownership of its property. This is the same
question addressed by the Supreme Court of Texas in Masterson v. The Diocese of
Northwest Texas, 422 S.W.3d 594 (Tex. 2013). In addressing this question, the
Supreme Court affirmed the use of “neutral principles of law” as the legal
methodology to be applied to such decisions, rather than the “deference” to the
2
denomination on property matters. Id. at 596. Under the neutral principles
methodology, ownership of disputed property is determined by applying generally
applicable law and legal principles, including evidence such as deeds to the
properties, terms of the local church charter (certificates of formation and bylaws),
and relevant provisions of governing documents of the denomination. Id. at 604.
The PCUSA, through its presbyteries, has systematically attempted to
circumvent the Masterson methodology in this and other proceedings. It flatly
rejects the right of a particular church (1) to avail itself of the protection of the
courts1; (2) to obtain a declaration of its rights and interests in its property through
a review of the deeds and corporate formation documents; or (3) to have Texas
trust law applied to the legal documents of the particular church and the
constitution of the PCUSA, particularly the Trust Clause, as described below.
Presbytery of New Covenant (“New Covenant”) attempts to define property rights
as an “ecclesiastical” matter2 so that only the denomination can adjudicate church
property rights and civil courts must defer to its determination as “ecclesiastical
action.” See Appellant’s Reply Brief at 24. In doing to, it essentially asks the
1
“…FPC did not just abandon the GRD process; it torpedoed that process by sneaking down to the courthouse,
filing a lawsuit, and obtaining an ex parte TRO …The Trial Court should have …dismissed this case.” Reply Brief
at 23.
2
“FPC violated a fundamental tenet of PC(USA)’s religious doctrine when FPC rejected the religious principle that
‘the right in and to all property within [the denomination’s] ecclesiastical jurisdiction belongs to the Church as a
whole—the entire denomination.” Brief of Appellant at 25.
3
courts to ignore neutral principles of law and adopt the deference to church
hierarchy methodology rejected by the Supreme Court of Texas. Id.
In this case, the PCUSA also asks the court to set aside injunctive relief
because it “prohibits [the presbytery] from taking ecclesiastical action mandated by
its religious beliefs in violation of its First Amendment rights.” Reply Brief at 24.
The ecclesiastical action it seeks to exercise is the right to “decide whether a
church should be dissolved as a PC(USA) congregation.” Reply Brief at 27. It
contends, without citation, that “dissolution” has a specialized “theological”
meaning. In fact, dissolution is a legal term3 and is one of the powers of a
domestic entity under Texas law. TEX. BUS. ORG. CODE 2.101(19).4 The
denomination claims an interest in the property of FPC Houston—despite the
content of the deeds and corporate formation documents—based upon an archaic,
inapplicable provision of the 1925 PCUS Form of Government of the Book of
Church Order (the predecessor denomination of the PCUSA) stating that if a
church is dissolved under certain circumstances, title to the property shall transfer
to the presbytery. Brief of Appellant at 4.
3
“Dissolution” is defined as the act of bringing to an end; termination; and the termination of a corporation’s legal
existence by expiration of its charter, by legislative act, by bankruptcy or by other means. BLACK’S LAW
DICTIONARY, Eighth Edition.
4
Also included in the powers of a domestic entity are (1) the right to sue and defend suit in the entity’s business
name; (3) the right to acquire, receive, own, hold, improve, use and deal in and with the property or an interest in the
property; (12) the right to conduct its business; (14) the right to elect or appoint officers; and (17) the right to adopt
and amend governing documents for managing the affairs of the entity. FPC Houston is a Texas non-profit
corporation as well as a religious entity affiliated with a denomination. TEX. BUS. ORG. CODE 2.101.
4
If the court were to set aside the injunction, New Covenant would be free to
exercise its alleged constitutional right to “dissolve” FPC Houston. Reply Brief at
12, 13, 16, 25. It claims it could then seize FPC Houston’s property for violating
the putative “religious” principle that the “right in and to all property within [the
denomination’s ecclesiastical jurisdiction belongs to the Church as a whole—the
entire denomination.” Reply Brief at 25 (Emphasis added.) In other words, by
exercising its legal rights under Masterson, a local church is deemed by the
PCUSA to have violated ecclesiastical doctrine, thereby entitling the presbytery to
dissolve the local church and seize its assets. This overreaching grab of church
property by the denomination is contrary to the neutral principles of law set forth
in the Masterson decision and should be soundly rejected.
ARGUMENTS AND AUTHORITIES
I. The Trust Clause of the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church
(USA) should be reviewed under the neutral principals of law
methodology set out in Masterson.
In Masterson v. Diocese of Northwest Texas, the Supreme Court of Texas
adopted “neutral principles of law” as the legal methodology to be applied when
there is a dispute over ownership of church property. Masterson, at 596. Under
the neutral principles methodology, ownership of disputed property is determined
by applying generally applicable law and legal principles, including evidence such
as deeds to the properties, terms of the local church charter (certificates of
5
formation and bylaws), and relevant provisions of governing documents of the
denomination. Id. at 604.
To the best of FPC San Antonio’s knowledge, the PCUSA is the only one of
seventeen Presbyterian denominations to assert a claim of interest in the property
of member churches.5 The PCUSA asserts an interest in the property of local
churches through a provision in the Book of Order (part of the constitution of the
PCUSA) known as the “Trust Clause,” which states:
All property held by or for a congregation, a presbytery, a synod, the
General Assembly, or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), whether legal title
is lodged in a corporation, a trustee or trustees, or an unincorporated
association, and whether the property is used in programs of a congregation
or of a higher council or retained for the production of income, is held in
trust nevertheless for the use and benefit of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.).
CR 3774 (G-4.0203 of the Book of Order). The Trust Clause is the only provision
in the PCUSA’s Book of Order which expressly purports to give the PCUSA a
beneficial interest in the property of local churches.
The PCUSA not only asserts the Trust Clause as the basis for its claim of a
beneficial interest in the property of the local church, it requires presbyteries to
enforce this clause against any church that desires to leave the denomination. The
PCUSA has issued opinions or directives outlining the duties of presbyteries when
a particular church seeks to withdraw from the denomination :
5
The Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) and ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians (ECO)
expressly disclaim any interest in the property of the local churches.
6
When a congregation asks to be dismissed to another denomination, the
presbytery has a fiduciary obligation to enforce the Trust Clause to initiate a
monetary payment for dismissal. Tom v. Presbytery of San Francisco
(2012) (General Assembly Permanent Judicial Council). See Exhibit “A.”
A presbytery must obtain a valuation of the financial assets of the property at
stake when deciding whether to allow a church to leave the denomination.
Id.
If a presbytery fails to carry out the constitutional responsibilities, the synod
(the regional arm of the PCUSA) may be required to intervene. Advisory
Opinion: Note 19 (PCUSA). See Exhibit “B.”
Even if a church and a presbytery reach an agreement on dismissal and the
amount to be paid, that decision is not binding on the PC(USA). See
Presbytery of New York v. McGee (2014) (General Assembly Permanent
Judicial Council). See Exhibit “C.”
Thus, the Trust Clause not only forms the basis of the PCUSA’s claim of interest
in the property of the local churches, all presbyteries in the denomination are
required to enforce it. New Covenant recently adopted a new policy that requires a
local church to accept the Trust Clause as a condition to participating in the
dismissal process. See Exhibit D at lines 38-41.6
In the instant case, FPC Houston filed suit for declaratory judgment asking
the court to declare, under Masterson, whether the Trust Clause is valid under
Texas law. The trial court correctly granted summary judgment for FPC Houston,
6
“If a session chooses not to follow this Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure, undertakes actions
attempting to revoke adherence to G-4.0203 of the Book of Order, or files suit in civil court against the Presbytery
of New Covenant, then it will be treated as a church in schism” (lines 281-381); “the Presbytery of New Covenant
understands that church property is held in trust for the PC (U.S.A.)” under section G-4.0203 of the Book of Order)
(lines 85-87); and prior to dismissal, there must be a binding contract that reflects the “financial settlement of the
congregation’s responsibilities under the provisions of G-4.0203” (lines 210-219).
7
holding, under the neutral principles of law methodology, that FPC Houston holds
title to its property free and clear of any trust for the benefit of the PCUSA.
New Covenant appears to have abandoned its claim under the Trust Clause
for purposes of this appeal and instead argues the novel theory that if a church
takes actions to protect its property, it has violated church doctrine. This allegedly
entitles the presbytery to dissolve the church and seize its property under a 1925
provision of the predecessor denomination. Reply Brief at 12, 13, 16, 25, 27.
The denomination’s abandonment of the Trust Clause as a viable legal
theory under Texas law is not unique to this case, nor is its attempt to find an
alternative theory on which to lay claim to the property of local churches in Texas.
In First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio v. Mission Presbytery, Cause No.
2015-CI-07858, filed in the 73rd Judicial District Court of Bexar County, Texas,
FPC San Antonio also sought a declaration that the Trust Clause is invalid under
Texas law and that FPC San Antonio owns its property free and clear of any claim
of ownership of the PCUSA. At the hearing on the temporary injunction held on
August 26-27, 2015, Mission Presbytery, like New Covenant, abandoned the
argument (for purposes of that hearing) that the Trust Clause gives the presbytery a
beneficial interest in property of a local church.7 Instead, five members of FPC
7
Although New Covenant has abandoned its claim under the Trust Clause for purposes of this appeal, it contends
FPC Houston committed a wrongful act by amending the articles and by-laws to rescind the Trust Clause.
Similarly, Mission Presbytery has claimed that FPC San Antonio fraudulently amended its articles of incorporation
and bylaws by excluding reference to the PCUSA. Both churches acted within their rights as non-profit
8
San Antonio (working with Mission Presbytery and represented by its lawyers),
asked the court to (1) impose a “constructive charitable trust” for the benefit of the
denomination and (2) enter a temporary injunction preventing FPC San Antonio
from using its property for the benefit of any denomination other than the PCUSA.
See Defendant’s Verified Original Counterclaim, Intervenors’ Verified Original
Petition in Intervention, and Defendant’s and Intervenors’ Application for
Temporary and Permanent Injunction, attached as Exhibit “E.” The argument for
this equitable remedy was that the five Intervenors made charitable contributions to
FPC San Antonio while it was associated with the PC(USA); the contributions had
become “intermingled” with all of the church assets; church funds were used to
maintain real property; and, therefore, all of the church assets must remain with the
denomination. The trial court rejected this theory and denied Mission Presbytery’s
and the Intervenors’ request for injunctive relief. See Exhibit “F.”
While PCUSA’s theories vary from case to case, the endgame is the same:
no church may leave the denomination with its property. Even if the presbyteries
choose not to argue the Trust Clause in selected court cases, the individual
churches are entitled to a declaration of their property rights under the neutral
principles of law methodology of Masterson. Moreover, a local church needs to
know the validity of the Trust Clause so that it can determine whether to
corporations. See Masterson v. Diocese of Northwest Texas, 422 S.W.3d 594, 609-10 (Tex. 2013) (local church’s
corporate powers were not restricted by its affiliation with hierarchical church organization, and thus the church
members were free to amend its bylaws); TEX. BUS. ORG. CODE §§ 22.105-22.107.
9
voluntarily enter into a presbytery’s dismissal process or seek a court declaration
of its rights under Texas law. The court should review the Trust Clause in
accordance with the methodology set out in Masterson and affirm the decision of
the trial court that, under the facts set forth in this case, the PC(USA) has no
interest in FPC Houston’s property under Texas law. See Appellee’s Brief.
II. Injunctive relief is essential to protect judicial review of church
property rights.
Under the PCUSA Book of Order, a presbytery is empowered to implement
the asserted trust because it has authority to “dismiss” a congregation to another
Reformed body (Presbyterian-type denomination). PCUSA Book of Order, G-
3.0303b.; PCUSA Advisory Opinion: Note 19, Exhibit B. In enforcing the Trust
Clause, the presbytery claims authority to appoint an administrative commission or
listening team to “assume original jurisdiction” over a session whenever the
presbytery determines that the session is unable or unwilling to manage its affairs
as presbytery thinks appropriate. By assuming original jurisdiction, the presbytery
claims it can replace the local church’s existing governing body, the session. Id.
In doing so, it further claims it can take control of local church property, even if it
cannot take title to the property. Presbyteries in Texas have often exercised this
asserted authority, particularly when a local church expresses a desire to leave the
PCUSA.
10
First Presbyterian Church, Ingram, Texas. After The Rev. Ray Tear inquired
about the process for a church to leave the denomination, Mission
Presbytery sent a “listening team” to the church. The “listening team”
recommended formation of an “administrative commission” which brought
charges against the pastor. The administrative commission also assumed
original jurisdiction over the finances of the church. See Depositions of
Rev. Ray Tear, Rev. Hector Reynoso, Exhibits “G” and “H.”
First Presbyterian Church, Edinburg, Texas. Mission Presbytery sent a
listening team” to the church with the authority to remove the pastor, take
control of church property and the finances. The Rev. Tom Johnson, who
was part of that team, described its extensive powers as “just about anything
we wanted to do.” The listening team removed the pastor and took control
of the church property and finances. The church was later closed.
Testimony of Rev. Tom Johnson, Exhibit “I.”
El Principe de Paz, Mercedes, Texas; Iglesia Presbiteriana Getsemani, San
Benito, Texas; San Pablo Presbyterian Church, Mission, Texas.
After seeing the experience of the churches in Ingram and Edinburg, The
Rev. Hector Reynoso, The Rev. Thomas C. Johnson and most of the
members of their three churches elected not to go through the presbytery
11
procedures for dismissal from the denomination. They left the PCUSA by
“renunciation of jurisdiction.” This meant they walked away from all of
their church property and formed new churches. Not satisfied with retention
of all of the churches’ assets, however, representatives of Mission
Presbytery went to the bank in Mercedes, Texas and claimed an interest in
the account of the newly formed church, the successor to El Principe de
Paz. The assets (a mere $2,000) were frozen for a week, making it
impossible for the church to pay its pastor or rent on the new church
building. Testimony of Rev. Hector Reynoso, Exhibit “H.”
First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio. FPC San Antonio filed suit
for declaratory judgment on May 12, 2015. The Honorable John D. Gabriel
granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) preventing Mission Presbytery
from taking a number of actions, including exercising original jurisdiction
through an Administrative Commission. See Exhibit “J.” The language of
the TRO is identical to that used in the permanent injunction signed by the
trial court in this action.
Shortly thereafter, Mission Presbytery formed a committee to investigate a
claim from a member of presbytery (another pastor) that Interim Senior
Pastor Ronald Scates had breached his ordination vows. Mission Presbytery
12
and the Intervenors also filed a counterclaim asserting a claim for injunctive
relief and asked the court to impose a constructive charitable trust on all of
the assets of FPC San Antonio.
On August 26-27, 2015, the court held a hearing on both applications for
injunctive relief. On October 12, 2015, Judge Gabriel denied both
applications for temporary injunction. The Judge’s Notes state that the
Court was denying the applications based on a “finding of no imminent
danger.” See Exhibit “K.” The Judge’s Notes also state that “any changes
in that status, however, may be reconsidered by this Court.”
Mission Presbytery filed a motion for reconsideration of the court’s ruling
after FPC San Antonio scheduled a congregational meeting to vote on
whether to disaffiliate from the PCUSA. The vote was scheduled for
November 1, 2015. On October 23, 2015, the Court denied the Intervenors’
Emergency Motion for Reconsideration, allowing FPC San Antonio to
proceed with the vote.
The very next day, Mission Presbytery voted to do what the Court would not
allow and appointed an Administrative Commission with, among other
things, the following authority:
13
Item 1: To take all necessary steps, if it becomes evident that
the church is in “schism,” to discern the “true church” within
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in this matter [G-4.0207];
Item 2 To have access to all church records [G-3.0107],
including but not limited to: membership rolls, minutes of
Session and all boards and committees, minutes of
congregational meetings, financial records, the church website,
membership directories, newsletters, and materials distributed
for sessional or congregational information;
Item 3 To have access to relevant records having to do with
corporate officers, corporate articles, bylaws, and/or charters,
including changes to any of these during the last 10 years [G-
3.0108];
Item 5 If it becomes necessary, to assume original jurisdiction
over the Session [G-3.0303e], with full authority and power to
(a) provide for worship, sacraments, and continuing pastoral
care of all members of the congregation, in the spirit of the
Gospel of Christ; (b) to receive and act on requests from
members to be transferred or deleted from the rolls; (c) to have
authority to call necessary congregational meetings, and to
obtain current and accurate membership lists from the church
for this purpose. (emphasis added).
Meeting Minutes of Mission Presbytery, October 24, 2015, attached hereto
as Exhibit “L.”
On October 28, 2015, FPC San Antonio filed its motion for reconsideration
of the denial of its application for temporary injunction, based upon Mission
Presbytery’s formation of the Administrative Commission. Mission sent
letters to the pastors of FPC San Antonio stating they may have renounced
14
jurisdiction. This would mean the pastors could not serve as pastors at FPC
San Antonio.
On Friday, October 30, 2015, at 4:30 p.m., Judge John D. Gabriel granted
the motion and issued a temporary injunction preventing Mission Presbytery
from exercising original jurisdiction over FPC San Antonio. The language
of the Temporary Injunction, a true and correct copy of which is attached as
Exhibit “M,” is identical to that of the permanent injunction in the instant
case.
Had the trial court not granted the temporary injunction, Mission Presbytery
could have threatened to replace the session of FPC San Antonio and assume
control of the property and assets of the church and the corporate governance of
the church. Indeed, if the presbytery had attempted to replace the session of FPC
San Antonio, the new session could have non-suited the lawsuit and effectively
precluded any court from ever deciding the property question. The trial judge had
previously denied FPC San Antonio’s request for a temporary injunction because
he did not find an imminent danger. See Exhibit “K.” This may have been based
on presbytery’s statements it was not threatening administrative action.8 As soon
8
During the temporary injunction hearing, counsel representing the presbytery argued that FPC’s fears that
Presbytery would use an Administrative Commission to begin asserting rights over FPC’s property were unfounded
and entirely without evidence. The Rev. William Poe, the Interim Stated Clerk for Mission Presbytery, testified that
15
as the TRO was lifted, however, the presbytery took immediate action to try to take
control of the church.
Despite statements to the contrary in both the Houston and San Antonio
cases, a presbytery is required by the PCUSA rulings cited above to enforce the
Trust Clause and protect the denomination’s alleged beneficial interest in the
property of the local church. In the absence of a court injunction, presbyteries
have asserted ecclesiastical remedies against the local churches to preclude the
churches’ rights to a judicial determination of their property rights under Texas
law.
The alleged “ecclesiastical” powers of a presbytery clearly infringe on the
property rights of the local church. But for the temporary injunction entered by
Judge Gabriel in the FPC San Antonio case, Mission Presbytery’s administrative
actions would have changed the status quo in the following ways:
Item 1 gave the Administrative Commission authority to declare the
"true church" and specifically cites G-4.0207 of the PCUSA Book of
Order. Section G-4.0207 states that the faction identified by the
Presbytery as the "true church" is entitled to the property;
Item 2 demanded that the Presbytery be given access to all church
records and its website, and specifically cited G-3.0107, yet the text
of G-3.0107 plainly declared that, "minutes and all other official
records of councils are the property in perpetuity of said councils or
their legal successors;"
he was not aware of any intent by Mission Presbytery to restrict FPC San Antonio from performing any of its
ministries in the future. See Exhibit “N” at 56.
16
Item 3 demanded Presbytery have access to various corporation
records, specifically citing G-3.0108. Section G-3.0108 says nothing
at all about records of a civil corporation. It is restricted only to
ecclesiastical records of a "council" (defined at G-3.0101 not as civil
entities but as the ecclesiastical bodies of session, presbytery, synod,
and the General Assembly. In any event, "personal property"
encompasses "records", whether corporate or ecclesiastical;
Item 5 also would disturb the status quo of FPCSA's real property. It
would empower the administrative commission to assume original
jurisdiction over the session, which is the governing body of FPCSA.
According to G-3.0303e, which item 5 specifically cited, an
administrative commission that assumes original jurisdiction over a
session assumes "the full power of session." (Emphasis added.) The
responsibilities of the session are set forth at G-3.0201c, and include
"managing the physical property of the congregation…"
See Exhibit “L.”
Therefore, when an administrative commission assumes original jurisdiction
to seize control of a church's local governing body, it necessarily seizes the day-to-
day management of its property as it is ordinarily used and controlled by the local
church. Rather than taking title to the assets directly, Mission Presbytery would
have taken control of the assets and governance of the non-profit corporation. The
effect would be the same: to significantly alter the status quo.
The PCUSA encouraged the presbyteries to take administrative action in a
carefully defined strategy laid out in 2012. The Office of the General Assembly at
PCUSA headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky issued a Legal Strategy Memoranda
to guide and direct presbyteries on how to implement the denomination’s trust
17
claim over churches that are considering leaving the PCUSA. See Exhibit “O.” It
advises the use of administrative commissions to effect seizure and control of local
church property, freezing local church assets, filing lis pendens, sending letters to
the local church’s banks and insurers, changing the locks and securing the grounds,
replacing local church leadership and determining the religious background of any
judge assigned to adjudicate a civil case.
Injunctive relief has been necessary to stop such action by the PCUSA
against churches in other states. In Carrollton Presbyterian Church v. Presbytery
of South Louisiana of Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), 172 S.W.3d 1, 12, (La. Ct.
App 2015), writ denied, 171 So. 3d 257 (La. 2015), the Presbytery (under the same
Synod as Presbytery of New Covenant and Mission Presbytery) was sanctioned
$390,000.00 for attempting to interfere with the trial court’s injunction by
attempting to dissolve the local church and for discovery abuses. The formation of
the administrative commission in that case was similar to the action taken against
FPC San Antonio. The only sure way to protect a church against loss of control of
its assets and local governance is by protecting a church’s procedural rights
through issuing an injunction. Injunctive relief is essential to the protection of the
status quo and the right of a local church to obtain judicial review of its substantive
property rights.
18
III. The language of the injunction is constitutional.
The language of FPC Houston’s permanent injunction does not
unconstitutionally infringe upon the First Amendment rights of New Covenant.
There are many instances throughout the U. S., including Texas, where courts have
acted to prevent property usurpation by presbytery-appointed administrative
commissions so that the court would have an opportunity to resolve the property
issues. New Covenant’s reliance on Serbian E. Orthodox Diocese v. Milivojevich,
426 U.S. 696 (1976), is misplaced. In Milovojevich, the civil corporation that
owned and controlled the property was chaired by the bishop. The national
denomination selected the bishop—an exceptional case where resolution of the
property issue was made expressly dependent on a religious question. In the case
at bar, there are no analogous facts. In stark contrast with Milovojevich, this case
presents a Masterson-type inquiry in which the court can review the corporate
documents of the non-profit corporation, the deeds to the property and the
constitution of the denomination and determine the rights and interests in the
property under trust and corporation law. Masterson at 604.
The language of FPC Houston’s permanent injunction is identical to that of
the temporary injunction signed in the FPC San Antonio case and in Carrollton
Presbyterian Church v. Presbytery of South Louisiana, 77 So. 3d 975; 2011 (La.
19
Ohio App. 1 Cir., 2011). In the latter case, the presbytery of South Louisiana contended,
as New Covenant now contends, that the various prohibitions in the injunction
interfered with the internal ecclesiastical governance of the presbytery and the
powers granted to presbytery by the Book of Order. However, after carefully
considering the text of the Injunction the Louisiana court concluded:
[W]e find no unconstitutional breach by the district court. The
injunctive relief is narrowly focused and restricted to actions
affecting the property that is the subject matter of this litigation …
The prohibited actions enumerated in the Injunction are specifically
limited to instances affecting the instant church property dispute.
Thus, we find no error.
Id. at 984. The presbytery subsequently sought writs to the Louisiana Supreme
Court and to the U.S. Supreme Court, which were denied. With this judicially-
approved template, identically worded injunctions have subsequently been
approved by at least ten other judges, state and federal, in courts in Louisiana,
Mississippi, Missouri, and Texas.9
9
New Covenant Presbyterian Church, Inc. v. MP of South Louisiana of the Presbyterian Church (USA); Suit
Number 602832; Section 27, 19th Judicial District Court, East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana; First Presbyterian
Church PCUSA of Starkville, Mississippi v. Presbytery of St. Andrew, Presbyterian Church U.S.A., Inc.; Cause No.
2015-0151-D, In the Chancery Court of Oktibbeha County, Mississippi; First Presbyterian Church of Greenwood,
Inc. v. Presbytery of St. Andrew, Presbyterian Church U.S.A., Inc.; Cause No. G15-0064, In the Chancery Court of
Leflore County, Mississippi; First and Calvary Presbyterian Church v. John Calvin Presbytery; Cause No. 1531-
CC00924, In the Circuit Court of Greene County, Missouri; First Presbyterian Church of Wichita Falls v. Palo
Duro Presbytery; Cause No. 182,783-B, 78th Judicial District Court, Wichita County, Texas; Highland Park
Presbyterian Church, Inc. v. Grace Presbytery, Inc.; Cause No. DC-13-10605, 298th Judicial District Court, Dallas
County, Texas; Highland Park Presbyterian Church Inc. v. Grace Presbytery, Inc.; Civil Action No. 3:13-CV-3813-
B, United States District Court, Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division; First Presbyterian Church of Houston
v. Presbytery of New Covenant, Inc.; Cause No. 2014-30354, 234th Judicial District Court, Harris County, Texas;
and First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio v. Mission Presbytery, Cause No. 2015-CI-07858, filed in the 73rd
Judicial District Court of Bexar County, Texas.
20
In Carrollton Presbyterian Church, the Synod of the Sun demonstrated its
propensity to overrule a presbytery’s judgment and force the presbytery to seek
original jurisdiction over the local church to gain control of the property. 77 So. 3d
at 981. Therefore, even if the presbytery is true to its word and does not seek to
appoint an administrative commission to seize original jurisdiction over the local
church, the Synod can force the presbytery’s hand. 10
Ultimately, the objective of the PCUSA is to prevent churches from leaving
the denomination with their property. A congregation, however, has a right under
the First Amendment of the U. S. Constitution to voluntarily affiliate with another
denomination.11 New Covenant similarly argues that the injunction
unconstitutionally involves the court system and violates its First Amendment
rights by requiring it to allow FPC Houston to remain part of the PCUSA. This
claim is entirely without merit. Nothing in the injunction prevents the presbytery
10
Presbytery of New Covenant, Inc., Mission Presbytery, and Presbytery of South Louisiana of Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) are all members of Synod of the Sun, the same synod which was sanctioned in the Carrollton Presbyterian
Church case.
11
Freedom to engage in association for the advancement of beliefs and ideas is an inseparable aspect of liberty. Of
course, it is immaterial whether the beliefs sought to be advanced by association pertain to political, economic,
religious or cultural matters, and state action which may have the effect of curtailing the freedom to associate is
subject to the closest scrutiny. NACCP v. Alabama, 357 U.S. 449, 460-61 (1958). See also, Robert v. United States
Jaycees, 468 U.S. 609, 623 (1984); Disabato v. South Carolina Association of School Administrators, 404 S.C. 433,
445, 746 S.E.2d 329, 335 (2013); accord Harris v. Quinn, 134 S. Ct. 2618, 2629 (2014). Subsequent court decisions
made clear the logical corollary of the right to associate: the right not to associate, just as one who decides to speak
also has the right to decide what not to say. Many courts have acknowledged the voluntary nature of
denominational membership by a local church. See, Presbytery of Beaver Builder v. Middlesex, 489 A.2nd 1317,
1324 (PA 1985); Accord Presbytery of Donegal v. Calhoun¸999 Pa. Cmwlth 300, 513 A.2nd 531 (1986); Presbytery
of Donegal v. Wheatley, 99 Pa. Cmwlth 312, 513 A.2d 538 (1986). See also, First Presbyterian Church of
Schenectady v. United Presbyterian Church, 62 N.Y.2nd 110, 120, 121, 476 N.Y.S. 2nd 86, 464 N.E.2d 454, cert
denied, 469 U.S. 1037, 105 S. Ct. 514, 83 L. Ed. 2d 404 (1984). See also, Fluker v. Hitchens, 419 So. 2d 445 (La.
1982) (“Whatever authority a hierarchical organization may have over associated local churches is derived solely
from the local church’s consent.”).
21
from exercising its right to disassociate from a particular church under the First
Amendment.
This does not mean, however, that a court of law cannot consider the rights
of the parties in the property of the local church. That is precisely the question
Masterson addressed. The Supreme Court of Texas rejected the “deference” to the
denominational hierarchy approach and adopted the “neutral principles of law”
methodology to be used in disputes over ownership of church property. Masterson
at [2]. The injunction in this case is narrowly tailored to protect property rights.
The portion of the injunction pertaining to ministers or members of the church is
limited to action that “pertains to ownership, control, use or disposition of”
property. The injunction also states that a presbytery may take “ecclesiastical
action for a non-pretextual ecclesiastical cause that is unrelated to the litigation or
any property issues.” See Permanent Injunction. (Emphasis added.) The language
of the injunction is clearly limited to property issues.
This court has jurisdiction—and, in fact, the obligation—to determine the
rights and interests of the parties to this dispute as regards the property of FPC
Houston. Courts are to “decide non-ecclesiastical issues such as property
ownership based on the same neutral principles of law applicable to other entities,
Jones v. Wolf, 443 U.S. 595, 603-04 (1979), while deferring to religious entities’
decisions on ecclesiastical and church polity questions. See Serbian E. Orthodox
22
Diocese v. Milivojevich, 426 U.S. 696, 708 (1976).” Id. (emphasis added) The
Supreme Court has expressly held that questions of property ownership are not
ecclesiastical in nature, as argued by the PCUSA. The injunction states that a
presbytery may take “ecclesiastical action for a non-pretextual ecclesiastical cause
that is unrelated to the litigation or any property issues.”
The courts also must protect the procedural right of a church to obtain a
legal determination of its substantive property interests.12 Accordingly, courts
must address whether an applicant is entitled to preservation of the status quo
pending trial on the merits. Khaledi v. H.K. Global Trading, Ltd., 126 S.W.3d 273,
279-80 (Tex. App.–San Antonio 2003, no pet.) (citation omitted). As
demonstrated above, without the protection of an injunction, the PCUSA will send
listening teams or administrative commissions to the churches to assume control of
church property and governance of the non-profit corporation. In so doing, the
local church will be prevented from seeking a determination of its rights and
interests in its property. Local churches must have legal protection for their
procedural rights as well as their substantive property rights. Otherwise, the
substantive rights will be lost. Injunctions are required to preserve the status quo;
to protect the congregation’s right of free association under the First Amendment
12
In Jones v. Wolf, the Augusta-Macon Presbytery had appointed an administrative commission whose “assumption
of original jurisdiction” and concomitant seizure of property control was necessarily blocked by the courts.
Otherwise, the application of neutral principles of law to resolve the property dispute would have been a moot issue
and the U.S. Supreme Court would not have remanded the case for further proceedings consistent with its opinion.
Jones at 597, 598.
23
of the U.S. Constitution; to protect the right of self-governance under the Texas
Business Organization Code; and to assure access to the courts for a determination
of substantive property rights. In summary, local churches need injunctive relief to
prevent the agents of the PCUSA from usurping their legal rights under the pretext
that property rights constitute religious doctrine.
Respectfully submitted,
DYKEMA COX SMITH
112 East Pecan Street, Suite 1800
San Antonio, Texas 78205
(210) 554-5500 – Telephone
(210) 226-8395 – Facsimile
/s/ David B. West
David B. West
State Bar No. 21196400
Ellen B. Mitchell
State Bar No. 14208875
Counsel for First Presbyterian
Church of San Antonio
24
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
The undersigned certifies this brief complies with the type-face and length
requirements of amended rule 9.4 of the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure.
Exclusive of the exempted portions stated in amended rule 9.4(i)(1), the brief
contains 5,952 words, as calculated by Microsoft Word 2010, the program used to
prepare this document.
Date: December 18, 2015
/s/ David B. West
David B. West
25
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing Amicus Brief of
First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio In Support of Appellant First Presbytery
Church of Houston has been forwarded to all counsel and parties of record listed
below by certified mail, return receipt requested, on this the 18th day of December,
2015.
Reagan M. Brown
Reagan.brown@nortonrosefulbright.com
NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT US LLP
1301 McKinney Street, Suite 5100
Houston, Texas 77010
Counsel for Appellant Presbytery of New Covenant, Inc.
Adam P. Schiffer
aschiffer@sohjlaw.com
Kenneth P. Held
kheld@sohjlaw.com
Penelope Nicholson
pnicholson@sohjlaw.com
SCHIFFER ODOM HICKS & JOHNSON PLLC
700 Louisiana Street, Suite 2650
Houston, Texas 77002
Counsel for Appellant Presbytery of New Covenant, Inc.
Kristin L. Smith
Kristin.smith@bgllp.com
Tony L. Visage
Tony.visage@bgllp.com
BRACEWELL & GIULIANI LLP
711 Louisiana Street, Suite 2300
Houston, Texas 77002
Counsel for Presbyterian School
26
David M. Gunn
dgunn@beckredden.com
Erin H. Huber
ehuber@beckredden.com
BECK REDDEN LLP
1221 McKinney, Suite 4500
Houston, Texas 77010
Counsel for Appellee, First Presbyterian Church of Houston
Thomas W. Paterson
tpaterson@susmangodfrey.com
SUSMAN GODFREY L.L.P.
1000 Louisiana Street, Suite 5100
Houston, Texas 77002
Counsel for Appellee, First Presbyterian Church of Houston
Kent C. Krause
kkrause@cdklawfirm.com
CRADDOCK DAVIS & KRAUSE LLP
3100 Monticello Avenue, Suite 550
Dallas, Texas 75205
Lloyd Lunceford
Lloyd.lunceford@taylorporter.com
TAYLOR, PORTER, BROOKS & PHILLIPS
451 Florida Street, Eighth Floor
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70801
/s/ David B. West
David B. West
4842-9167-7739.4
27
PERMANENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION
OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A.)
Wilber Tom, David Hawbecker, and )
Thomas Conrad, ) Decision and Order
Appellants (Complainants), ) Remedial Case 221-03
)
v. )
)
Presbytery of San Francisco, )
Appellee (Respondent). )
Arrival Statement
This filing before the Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly (GAPJC
or this Commission) is an appeal of a Decision of the Permanent Judicial Commission of the
Synod of the Pacific (SPJC) rendered on March 23, 2012. The Notice of Appeal was received by
the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly on May 10, 2012.
Jurisdictional Statement
This Commission finds that it has jurisdiction, that Appellants have standing to file the
Appeal, that the Appeal was properly and timely filed, and that the Appeal states one or more of
the grounds for appeal under• D-8.0105.
Appearances
Wilbert Tom, David Hawbecker, and Thomas Conrad (Appellants), were represented by
JoAn Blackstone. Presbytery of San Francisco (Presbytery or Appellee) waived its appearance at
the hearing and chose to rely on its written submissions.
History
Presbytery formed a workgroup on December• 11, 2008, to develop a policy regarding
any church located in the Presbytery that wished to be dismissed from the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) (PC(U.S.A.)). Scott Farmer (Farmer), Senior Pastor, Community Presbyterian Church
of Danville (Danville) served on that workgroup. While the exact date is unknown, it is not
disputed that Danville had begun discussions regarding the dissolution of their relationship with
the PC(U.S.A.) at the time of Farmer's selection to the policy workgroup.
Presbytery, at its September 15, 2009, stated meeting, adopted what was known as the
"Gracious Dismissal Policy" (GDP) as a result of the recommendation of the policy workgroup.
While the GDP acknowledged Book of Order 0-8.0201 (now G-4.0203) (the Trust Clause) that
1
provides all property held by or for a congregation "is held in trust nevertheless for the use and
benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)," the GDP interpreted the Trust Clause "to reflect the
church's organic unity as it fulfills 'The Great Ends of the Church,' strengthening its ability to
guide its member churches into their witness to the broader community," The GDP found that it
was "the right of a congregation to seek and request dismissal with its property to another
reformed denomination:" The GDP also set forth that the Trust Clause was not to be used as a
weapon to threaten civil action against a congregation over issues of conscience.
To mitigate financial impact on mission and ministry of Presbytery, the GDP requested
the congregation seeking dismissal to pay Presbytery annually for five years: (1) funds to offset
declining per capita and (2) funds to offset a declining contribution to the mission budget. The
GDP did not mention payment of any other funds to Presbytery, such as payment for the value of
the congregation's real property and other assets.
Five months after the adoption of the GDP by Presbytery, the session of Danville, of
which Farmer was moderator, notified Presbytery in February 2010 of its intention to seek
dismissal to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC). Pursuant to the GDP, a Presbytery
Engagement Team (PET) was appointed by Presbytery during its stated meeting on April 13,
2010, to work with the session and congregation of Danville to effect reconciliation, if possible,
or to negotiate the terms of the dismissal. Also pursuant to the terms of the GDP, Danville .
formed a Special Committee of the Congregation (SCC), on which Farmer participated, to
negotiate with PET. During a called congregational meeting on September 12, 2010, Danville
voted to seek dismissal from the PC(U.S.A.) pursuant to the terms negotiated by PET and SCC.
The terms of the negotiation were subject to approval by Presbytery. '
According to the testimony of members of PET, the GDP did not include a requirement
to consider the value of the congregational property for the use and benefit of the PC(U.S.A.).
Under the terms of the final agreement reached with PET, Danville agreed to make a lump sum
payment of $108,640 to Presbytery to compensate for declining per capita. Additionally,
Danville agreed to pay $42,000 per year for five years to support targeted PC(U.S.A.) ministries,
missions and ministers, No other monies were contemplated or discussed by PET with SCC.
At its November 9, 2010, stated meeting, Presbytery conditionally approved the terms of
the dismissal as set forth by PET and SCC. The resolution provides:
The effective date of [Danville's] dismissal will be November 10, 2010. If there is no
stay or filing of a complaint during a 90-day waiting period, consistent with the interval
identified in the Presbyterian Church (U.S,A.) Book of Order for the filing of stays and
complaints, full implementation will occur on February 9, 2011.
At that same meeting, Presbytery voted to suspend the GDP. Subsequently, Presbytery adopted
A new GDP which is not relevant to this appeal.
On February 2, 2011, within the 90-day time frame approved by Presbytery, Appellants
filed a remedial complaint against Presbytery with the SPJC. On June 4, 2011, SPJC answered
all the preliminary questions affirmatively under D-8.0105. An amended complaint was filed on
October 14, 2011.
2
Trial was held on March 22, 2012. At the beginning of the trial, Appellants moved to
disqualify a commissioner pursuant to D-7.0401b(2), alleging that the commissioner was
predisposed to rule against Appellants as evidenced by the "tenor of his comments" set forth in
an October 6, 2011, email. The motion was denied by SPJC.
During the trial a number of documents were offered for inclusion in the record. These
documents included the PC(U.S.A.)ls Atnicus Curiae Brief before the California Supreme Court
and the Annual Statistical Report of Danville which had been sent to the Stated Clerk of
Presbytery. The moderator sustained Presbytery's objections to the admission of these
documents. The Appellants objected to the admission of other documentary evidence, including
an email from a PET member summarizing her conversation with a representative of the
Department of Constitutional Services within the Office of the Stated Clerk. Appellants'
objections were overruled.
Additionally, while questioning a witness, a commissioner stated, "The agreement that
you struck between the Presbytery and CPC Danville, my home church, also referred to as CPC,
so Central, however, has several points in it with subpoints." Neither party made an objection
regarding disqualification of this commissioner at that time for any possible conflict of interest,
if the commissioner meant by his comment that Danville was his "home church."
On March 23, 2012, SPX ordered that the action of Presbytery on November 9, 2010,
dismissing Danville pursuant to the terms of the agreement, be affirmed.
On May 7, 2012, Appellants mailed their• Notice of Appeal to the GAPJC and all other
appropriate recipients. During the Presbytery stated meeting on May 8, 2012, the PET reported
that the new implementation date of the agreement would fall between May 21 and May 26,
2012. Appellants believe that PET, at this stated meeting, was aware of the Notice of Appeal to
the GAPJC.
On May 18, 2012, the GAPJC issued its preliminary order finding that it had jurisdiction,
that the Appellants had standing to file the Appeal, that the Appeal was properly and timely filed,
and that the Appeal stated one or more of the grounds for appeal under D-8.0I 05. Notice of such
GAPJC decision accepting the Appeal was timely mailed to the parties. On May 21, 2012,
Presbytery executed quitclaim deeds to Danville and Danville paid the per capita and mission
funds pursuant to the agreement.
Specifications of Error
Specification of Error• No. 1: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 1) The
proceedings of the Synod Permanent Judicial Commission (SPJC) were irregular, in that the
decision is inconsistent with substantial evidence from the testimony of witnesses at the trial, that
in determining the terms of its dismissal of a large suburban church the Presbytery of San
Francisco (Presbyteq) failed to consider or to 'understand the meaning of the property Mist
clause (G-4.0202, formerly G-8.0201) or that the church property in question was in fact
unequivocally owned by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
3
This Specification of Error is sustained.
See the rationale below Specification of Error 7.
Specification of Error No. 2: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 10) The SPJC erred
in constitutional interpretation, in that itfailed to apprehend or give effect to the plain meaning
of the language of the express trust now at G-4.0203 (formerly G-8.0201) in the context of a
church seeking dismissal, that all property held by a congregation "is held in trust nevertheless
for the use and benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A)."
This Specification of Error is sustained.
See the rationale below Specification of Error 7.
Specification ofError No. 3: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 11) The SPJC erred
in constitutional interpretation, in that it failed to consider or give effect to a relevant
Authoritative Interpretation (Al) of the Book of Order (Request 9-88), an answer provided by the
General Assembly of 1988 on the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on the
Constitution (ACC) which, in the context of a presbytery's response to a church seeking
dismissal, interprets the property trust clause to require proper consideration to be given to the
interests of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as provided in Chapter VIII. This Al goes on to
say, "in particular, G-8.0201 recognizes the principle that all property for or by a particular
church is held in h-ust for the use and benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Thus the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is a party in interest when a presbytery takes action with respect to
a request to dismiss a church with its property."
This Specification of Error is sustained.
See the rationale below Specification of Error No. 7.
Specification of Error No. 4: (Appellants' Specification of Error No, 12) The SPJC erred
in constitutional interpretation, in that itfailed to consider or give effect to a subsequent Al of
the property trust clause, in an answer provided by the General Assembly in 1989 on the
recommendation of the ACC: "When dealing with a request by a church for dismissal with its
property pursuant to G-11.01031 and G-11.0103y, the presbytery is responsible for exercising
the express trust provisions of G-8.0201 recognizing and protecting the interests of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A). Separate consideration should be given to the questions of
dismissing the congregation, the disposal of property, and the relationships of ministers of Word
and Sacrament." "Each request for dismissal should be considered in the light of the particular
situation and circumstances involved."
This Specification of Error is sustained.
See the rationale below Specification of Error No. 7.
Specification of Error No. 5: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 13) The SPJC 'erred
in constitutional interpretation, in that it disregarded testimony of members of the Presbytery's
4
PET who had negotiated the terms of dismissal of the CPCD and whose recommendation the
Presbytery had adopted. This testimony demonstrated, among other things, a consistent failure
to understand the meaning of the property trust clause as expressed in the Book of Order, a
failure to have read or considered relevant Authoritative Interpretations of the Constitution, an
apparent failure to understand that the PC (U.S.A.) owned the church property, a failure to
grasp the fact that a transfer of the real property without consideration amounted to a gut an
exclusive reliance on the Presbytery's previously approved dismissal policy as understood by
members of the PET, a failure to understand how to apply the trust clause other than in the
context of specific process steps in the policy, and a belief that the policy precluded even having
a discussion about having the church property remain in the hands of the denomination or
asking for any payment for the property upon its transfer.
This Specification of Error is sustained.
See the rationale below Specification of Error No. 7.
Specification of Error No. 6: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 14) The SPJC erred
in constitutional interpretation, in that it upheld the Presbytery's action as being within its
discretion as trustee of the church property, based on Presbytery's contention that the transfer of
the property without consideration would serve "the Great Ends of the Church" and further the
"total ministry and witness for Christ," thus making any further recognition of the property trust
unnecessary or inappropriate.
This Specification of Error is sustained.
See the rationale below Specification of Error No. 7.
Specification ofError No. 7: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 15) The SPJC erred
in constitutional interpretation, in that its decision would indicate that cz presbytery has
unfettered discretion with respect to church property being used by a congregation seeking
dismissal to another Reformed denomination, while the Book of Order places the fiduciary and
related responsibilities of a trustee of the property on the presbytery.
This Specification of Error is sustained.
Presbytery voted to approve the transfer of the valuable Danville property unless a
complaint or stay was filed within 90 days. A complaint was so filed. Following the ruling by
SPJC, a new implementation date for the agreement was set. In the interim, an appeal was filed
to this Commission and accepted with a preliminary order being entered May 18, 2012.
Nevertheless, on May 21, 2012, Presbytery executed a quitclaim deed to Danville before this
Commission was able to conduct the hearing on this appeal.
Presbytery, having transferred title while this case was pending, argued that the transfer
of title renders the case moot because the quitclaim deed had been signed and could not be
revoked.
5
Notwithstanding the transfer of title, in cases where circumstances prevent a remedy, this
Commission may exercise its declaratory authority to provide guidance to lower• councils and
prevent future violations. Daniel J. McKittrick v. The Session of the West End Presbyterian
Church (Remedial Case 215-5, 2003).
The Book of Order provides in 0-8.0201 (now G-4.0203) that:
All property held by or for a congregation, a presbytery, a synod, the General
Assembly, or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), whether legal title is lodged in a
corporation, a trustee or trustees, or an unincorporated association, and whether
the property is used in programs of a congregation or of a higher council or
retained for the production of income, is held in trust nevertheless for the use and
benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S,A.).
Under the Trust Clause, a presbytery's discretionary authority to determine property
rights, while broad, must be guided by the presbytery acting as a fiduciary for the benefit of the
PC(U.S.A.), the beneficiary of the Trust Clause. A congregation's financial and all other assets
are also understood to be covered by the Trust Clause. Chesterbrook Taiwanese PC v. National
Capital Presbytery, Remedial Case 212-12, 2006.
Under the fiduciary obligations inherent in the Trust Clause, a presbytery must take into
consideration the PC(U.S.A.)'s use and benefit of the property in every decision concerning its
disposition. To comply with the Trust Clause, the presbytery must consider the interest of
PC(U.S.A.) as a beneficiary of the property. Payments for per capita or mission obligations are
not satisfactory substitutes for valuations of the property held in trust. (0-4.0203)
The Trust Clause reflects our• understanding of the church as a communion of saints
across time, with responsibilities both to those who came before and those who will follow.
When a congregation seeks to leave the PC(U.S,A.), it is breaking what is often a significant
historic relationship; it is also departing from a fellowship in which its officers have participated,
by whose polity they have pledged to be governed, and with which many members may feel
bonds of affection.
Based on an examination of the record, this Commission finds that the GDP developed
by Presbytery, its implementation, and SPJC in its trial decision, failed to duly consider the
economic interests of the PC(U.S.A.), Such consideration is essential. SPJC's exclusion of
documents which were the most convincing evidence of the position of PC(U.S.A.) in regard to
the Trust Clause and of the financial position of Danville, strongly supports the allegation of
erroneous interpretation. Failure to consider the property value and the PC(U.S.Als beneficial
interest in the property was a fatal omission of the trustee's duty to the PC(U.S.A.).
The justification given by Presbytery for dismissal of the Danville church with property,
which included only "Great Ends of the Church" and avoidance of litigation, was erroneously
- upheld by SPJC. While certainly valid, such considerations alone are not sufficient to.satisfy the
due diligence requirement imposed by the Trust Clause. SPJC erred in finding that due
consideration had been given to the interest of the PC(U.S.A.) as the trust beneficiary under the
Constitution. Due diligence, of necessity, will include not only the spiritual needs of the
6
congregation and its circumstances, but an examination of the congregation's financial position
and the value of the property at stake, It is undisputed that Presbytery failed to make such an
examination. SPJC erred in failing to require that financial due diligence be undertaken by
Presbytery.
Specification ofError No. 8: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 2) The proceedings
of the SPJC were irregular, in that one of its commissioners made a comment, before a witness
could answer a question, to the effect that the attorney-client privilege would preclude answering
the question, and cast doubt on the witnesses' ability to waive the privilege.
This Specification of Error is not sustained.
There was no error in having the question of attorney-client privilege raised by a
commissioner. If the moderator was incorrect in finding that the witness could not waive the
privilege, such ruling was harmless because ultimately the witness was allowed to testify
concerning the information objected to.
Specification of Error No. 9: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 3) The proceedings
of the SPJC were irregular, in that in questioning a witness one of its commissioners made
reference to, and quoted, a provision of the Book of Order that was not in effect at the time of the
disputed action (G-4.0201), thus providing misleading support for the Presbytery's position.
This Specification of Error is not Sustained.
References to provisions of the Book of Order are not evidence. They may be incorrect
or untimely but they have no impact without a determination or decision being based on the
provisions that are considered.
?Specification of Error No. 10: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 4) The
proceedings of the SPJC were irregular, in that one of its commissioners belatedly revealed,
near the conclusion of the trial in which he had materially participated as described at 2. and 3.,
above and at other times during the proceedings; that the "Danville church" (the church that
was to have been dismissed by the Presbytery under the disputed terms), was his home church. In
addition, there is nothingfrom the record that would indicate other than the. same.
commissioner's full participation in the SPJC deliberations that followed the trial, despite the
appearance of a significant conflict of interest.
This Specification of Error is not sustained.
Having reviewed the record, it is clear the commissioner was not referring to Danville as
his home church. Support for this conclusion can be found in that there was no objection or
question of conflict of interest raised by anyone after his statement.
Specification of Error No. 11: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 5) The SPJC erred
in declining to receive as proper evidence the Amicus Curiae Brief of Clifton Kirkpatrick el al. in
support of the position of the Episcopal Church before the Supreme Court of California in the
7
Episcopal Church Cases. This brief sets forth the official legal position of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A)with respect to church property as provided in the property trust clause in the
Book of Order.
This Specification of Prror is sustained.
Failure to receive the Amiens Curiae Brief into the record was an abuse of discretion in
that it was a clear statement of the legal position of the PC(U.S.A.) as it related to the Trust
Clause. Recognition of the legal position of the PC(U.S.A.) as the beneficiary under the Trust
Clause is integral to any presbytery analysis concerning dispositicin of church property.
Specification ofError No. 12: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 6) The SPJC erred
in declining to receive as proper evidence the Annual Statistical Report for the Community
Presbyterian Church of Danville (CPCD), which was sent by its Cleric of Session to the Stated
Clerk of the Presbytery of San Francisco. Appellants believe this report provides useful
information concerning the number of members and financial strength of CPCD, mailers which
the Presbytery failed to consider'but should have considered in negotiating the terms of its
dismissal.
This Specification of Error is sustained.
The failure to receive the report on Danville was an abuse of discretion because it
provided relevant information which should have been considered as part of the dismissal.
Specification of Error No.13: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 7) The SPJC erred
in receiving as proper evidence a copy of an E-mail communication from a member of the
Presbytery Engagement Team (PET), the ad hoc committee that was charged with negotiating
the terms of dismissal with representatives of CPCD, to the other members of the PET,
describing her telephone conversation with a third party, despite her testimony that there was no
follow-tip discussion of its contents on the part of the PET and hence no indication that the PET
based its actions on that conversation or E-mail message.
This Specification of Error is not sustained.
There was no abuse of discretion by SPJC in receiving such evidence.
Specification ofError No. 14: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 8) The SPJC erred
in receiving as proper evidence a copy of an E-mail communication from a member of the PET
to the other members of the PET in which she related her understanding of the reasons for the
CPCD Sessions' desire to leave the PC(U.S.A.). At no time was any evidence testimony
produced to suggest that the Presbytery's terms of dismissal were influenced in'any way by the
matters discussed in that communication.
This Specification of Error is not sustained.
There was no abuse of discretion by SPJC receiving such evidence.
8
Specification of Error No. 15: (Appellants' Specification of Error No. 9) For the reasons
stated at 10 (Appellants' 4) and 14 (Appellants' 8), above, there was a manifestation ofprejudice
in the conduct of the case.
This Specification of Error is not sustained.
This Commission did not sustain either Specifications of Error No. 10 or No. 14
(Appellants' No. 4 and No. 8). Therefore, there was no manifestation of prejudice as a result of
the conduct alleged in those Specifications of Error.
Decision
When the lower council's actions cannot be undone, this Commission may exercise its
declaratory authority to provide guidance to lower councils and to prevent future violations.
When a congregation seeks dismissal under G-11.0103i (now G-3.0301a), it is the
of the presbytery to fulfill its fiduciary duty under the Trust Clause. This fiduciary
duty requires that the presbytery exercise due diligence regarding the value of the property of the
congregation seeking dismissal. Due diligence, of necessity, includes not only an evaluation of
the spiritual needs of the congregation and its circumstances but also financial analysis of the
value of the property at stake. Payments for per capita or mission obligations are not
satisfactory substitutes for the separate evaluation of the value of the property held in trust.
Order
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that the Decision of the Synod of the Pacific
Permanent Judicial Commission is affirmed in part and reversed in part as set forth above.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Stated Clerk of the Synod of the Pacific report this
Decision to the Synod of the Pacific at its first meeting after receipt, that the Synod of the Pacific
enter the full Decision upon its minutes, and that an excerpt from those minutes showing entry of
the Decision be sent to the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery of San Francisco
report this Decision to the Presbytery of San Francisco at its first meeting after receipt, that the
Presbytery of San Francisco enter the full Decision upon its minutes, and that an excerpt from
those minutes showing entry of the Decision be sent to the Stated Clerk of the General
Assembly.
Absences and Non-Appearances
9
Commissioner Mary Charlotte McCall was not present and did not participate in this
decision. Commissioner Patrick Notley did not participate in this decision.
Concurring Opinion of H. Clifford Looney and Terry Epling
We concur in the majority decision.
Transfers of property remain within the discretion of Presbytery but the Presbytery must
be mindful of the interest of the PC(U.S.A.) in maintaining the presence of the denomination to
meet the needs of that affected Community including that portion of the church membership that
wishes to remain within the PCUSA.
We also join in the majority's conclusion that the language of the Gracious Dismissal
Policy adopted by the Presbytery of San Francisco did not require adequate consideration of
property retention issues. The needs of future congregations, the involved debt, the probability
that a substantial number of dissenting members may be enabled to continue a PCUSA
congregation would compel retention of a property or equity facilitating those or similar interests
are all matters to be considered to be involved in the Presbytery trustee's decision. The Gracious
Dismissal Policy did-not require the PET to deal with those aspects of the dismissal decision.
However erroneous the omissions of the GDP, and the construction given by its PET, it
may well have been within the discretion of the Presbytery to dismiss the Danville church with
its property.
Many factors other than the-attempt to be "gracious" with the Danville congregation may
have been considered. Those include:
This Danville congregation acquired these assets and had been paying on them and had
been successful in meeting the need of a Presbyterian witness for the Christian faith in
this community for many years;
The church had tried development of other PC (USA) churches in the area without
success;
Only 4% of the congregation voted against the dismissal decision;
The PET felt, apparently with substantial basis, that the needs of the community for
Presbyterian witness to the faith would be met by this church as it was constituted, and
that no plan for an additional church was presently feasible, so that there was no need to
use any of the equities of the property interests of the church for that purpose; and
that no resources of the denomination had been used in the form of loans, nor was there
any remaining indebtedness which was not being assumed by the Danville church.
In short, there may have been no apparent reason to require retention by the PC (USA) of
any property interest. With the evidence in that stature, the burden of proof that the Complainant
would had to have met to show an abuse of discretion by the Presbytery would have been heavy.
10
The testimony of Lois Quick (record p. 262 & 286) indicates that the properties were
encumbered by about three million dollars in debt that the Danville congregation agreed to pay
in accepting the property. Rev. Kathy Runyeon indicates at page 174 of the record that the
Presbytery had no Competing plans for the property.
The facts here presented to the PET are not ones that suggest that there would be
substantial benefit from retaining the property. What the Presbytery did in securing additional
mission and per capita payments may or may not have been sufficient to "balance the books" in
this particular scenario, but it was within their discretion once they exercised due diligence and
considered all the factors inherently required by the fiduciary duty of a trustee.
Certificate
We certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the decision of the Permanent
Judicial Commission of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Remedial
Case 221-04, Wilbert Tom, David Hawbecker, and Thomas Conrad, Appellants (Complainants),
v. Presbytery of San Francisco, Appellee (Respondent), made and announced at Louisville, KY
this 28th day of October 2012.
Dated this 28th day of October, 2012.
Bradley C. Copeland Moderator
Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly
Jay Lewis, Clerk
Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly
I certify that I did transmit a certified copy of the foregoing to the following persons by
Federal Express Next Day Air, directing C. Laurie Griffith to deposit it in the mail at Louisville,
KY, this 28th day of October, 2012.
JoAn Blackstone, Counsel for Appellant (Complainant)
Linda Lee, Committee of Counsel for Appellee (Respondent)
Stated Clerk, Synod of the Pacific
Stated Clerk, Presbytery of San Francisco
General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission
-
I further certify that I did transmit a certified copy of the foregoing to the Stated Clerk of
the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) by delivering it in person to Joyce
Lieberman, on October 28, 2012.
Jay Lewis, Clerk
Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly
I certify that I received a certified copy of the foregoing, that it is a fidl and correct copy
of the decision of the Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), sitting during an interval between meetings of the General
Assembly, in Louisville, KY on October 28, 2012 , Remedial Case 221-04 Wilbert Tom, David
Hawbecker, and Thomas Conrad, Appellants (Complainants), v. Presbytery of San Francisco,
Appellee (Respondent)„ and that it is the final judgment of the General Assembly of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in the case.
Dated at Louisville, KY on October 28, 2012.
Joyce Lieberman, Assistant Stated Clerk
12
Exhibit B
ADVISORY OPINION
THE TRUST CLAUSE AND GRACIOUS SEPARATION:
IMPLEMENTING THE TRUST CLAUSE FOR THE UNITY OF THE CHURCH
WHAT IS THE TRUST CLAUSE?
G-4.0203 of the Book of Order states:
All property held by or for a particular church, a presbytery, a synod, the General
Assembly, or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), whether legal title is lodged in a
corporation, a trustee or trustees, or an unincorporated association, and whether the
property is used in programs of a particular church or of a more inclusive governing body
or retained for the production of income, is held in trust nevertheless for the use and
benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)"1
Presbyterian congregations emerge from the collective gifts of God's people and often include
direct gifts from individuals, other congregations, presbyteries, synods, and the General
Assembly. These gifts are not regarded as given for a single generation, but are held in trust for
this generation and fOr future generations to come. Indeed, "the Trust Clause reflects our
understanding of the church as a communion of saints across time, with responsibilities both to
those who came before and those who will follow. When a congregation seeks to leave the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), it is breaking what is often a significant historic relationship; it is
also departing from a fellowship in which its officers have participated, by whose polity they
have pledged to be governed, and with which many members may feel bonds of affection."2
Accordingly, the idea of holding property in trust has long been a part of the Presbyterian
theology as well as a practice recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court (Watson v. Jones, 80 U.S.
(13 Wall.) 679 (1872)?
How ➢ OES CHURCH UNITY RELATE TO THE TRUST CLAUSE?
"There is one Church, for there is one Spirit, one hope, 'one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one
God and Father of all, who is above all and through all anti in all' (Eph. 4:5-6) (F-1.0302(a))
Our polity reflects this theology of unity and oneness and the Book of Order reminds us that
"unity is God's gift to the Church in Jesus Christ" and "in Christ the Church is one, it strives to
be one."4 Along these lines, the 217th General Assembly (2006) called upon "every member of
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to witness to the church's visible oneness, to avoid division
into separate denominations that obscure our community in Christ, and to live in harmony with
other members of this denomination, so that we maywith one voice together glorify God in
Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit; and all sessions, congregations, presbyteries, and
synods to renew and strengthen their covenanted partnership with one another and with the
General Assembly."5
Further, G-3.0101 reminds us, "the mutual interconnection of the church through its councils is a
sign of the unity of the church. Congregations of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), while
possessing all the gifts necessary to be the church, are nonetheless not sufficient in themselves to
be the church. Rather, they are called to share with others both within and beyond the
congregation the task of bearing witness to the Lordship of Jesus Christ in the world. This call to
bear witness is the work of all believers. The particular responsibility of the councils of the
church is to nurture, guide, and govern those who witness as part of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) to the end that such witness strengthens the whole church and gives glory to God."6
Furthermore, "the congregation is the basic form of the church, but it is not of itself a sufficient
form of the church. Thus congregations are bound together in communion with one another,
united in relationships of accountability and responsibility, contributing their strengths to the
benefit of the whole, and are called, collectively, the church.°Accordingly, the church is not a
voluntary association of those who share the same opinions and experiences, but is an organic
body reflecting unity in diversity and called into existence by God that celebrates and transmits
through the ages the name and knowledge of Jesus Christ.8 The constitutional provisions under
which congregations hold property for the benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) wise out
of and reflect our theological conviction that this denomination constitutes one indivisible body,
which itself is part of the body of Christ, and which encompasses not only the visible Church
today but also the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church of our heirs and forbearers (F-
1.0302).
How DOES MISSION RELATE TO THE TRUST CLAUSE AND CHURCH PROPERTY?
The Book of Order in G-4.0201 affirms, "the property of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A), of its
councils and entities, and of its congregations, is a tool for the accomplishment of the mission of
Jesus Christ in the world."9 Each local congregation "is the church engaged in the mission of
God in its particular context" with a particular history!° For its members, the congregation is the
site of baptisms, confirmations, marriages, and celebrations of the resunection to join the
communion of saints. Such significant personal experiences make the local congregation an
indelible part of the lives of their members. These shared experiences are what most of us picture
when we think of our home congregation.
Yet, we also affirm that the "congregation is the basic form of the church, but it is not of itself a
sufficient form of the church" and our polity recognizes that purpose of the trust clause is not
only to support the witness and mission of a particular congregations, but also to support the
mission and witness of the whole Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Indeed, it is "the particular
responsibility of the councils of the church is to nurture, guide, and govern those who witness as
part of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to the end that such witness strengthens the whole
"church and gives glory to God." Along these lines, as a council of the church, the presbytery is
responsible for developing "the strategy for the mission of the church in its district"' 2 and has the
responsibility and power to organize, receive merge, dismiss and dissolve congregations in
consultation with their members.° Further, the presbytery has the responsibility to assist
congregations in developing mission and participating in the mission of the whole
church.° Accordingly, it is important for the presbytery to prayerfully discern and consider the
mission of the church in its district and of the whole church as it decides whether to dismiss or
dissolve a congregation. -
WHO HAS THE AUTHORITY TO DISMISS A CONGREGATION?
Presbyteries are responsible for upholding the trust clause and congregations may only be
dismissed upon the approval of their presbytery. In accordance with G-4.0207, "the relationship
to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) of a particular church can be severed only by constitutional
action on the part of the presbyter-y."1s As noted above, the presbytery is responsible for the
mission and government of the church throughout its geographical district and has the power
2
organize, receive merge, dismiss and dissolve congregations in consultation with their
members."
CAN A CONGREGATION VOTE TO SEEK DISMISSAL? DOES A CONGREGATION HAVE A
UNILATERAL RIGHT TO DEPART FROM THE PC(USA)?
No. There is not a unilateral right of a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregation to depart from
the denomination or its presbytery of membership. Withdrawal from the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) is not a matter that can be considered at a congregational meeting." No authority is
given to a congregation or to session to vote to leave the denomination." While a presbytery
may consult with a congregation about dismissal in the form of listening sessions, hearings, or
other consultations, these consultations are merely for the benefit of informing the presbytery as
it considers a request for dismissal." Along these lines, our church has long recognized that "by
giving to presbytery rather than to session or congregation the power to dismiss a church, the
constitution of this denomination guarantees a formal meeting of presbytery as the forum in
which loyalist minorities of whatever size might press their claims that they were sufficient in
numbers and dedication to continue a church in its connectional relationship within this
denomination."20 Further, in seeking to negotiate with a congregation seeking dismissal,
presbyteries have an obligation to see that secular litigation is used as a last resort.21
Here, it is also important to note that freedom of conscience is limited for teaching elders, ruling
elders and deacons under G-2.0105 and does not encompass the calling of congregational
meetings to seek dismissal, moving churches to seek dismissal from the denomination or
obstructing constitutional governance of the church.22 There may not be any secret acts by the
pastors and sessions diminishing a church's connection to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
Further, congregations that fail to abide by the principles of Gracious Separation "have breached
important responsibilities and duties."23
DOES A CONGREGATION HAVE TO BE DISMISSED TO ANOTHER REFORMED BODY?
Yes. Dismissal to another reformed body is a requirement through authoritative interpretations of
PC(USA) constitutional provisions 24 Through authoritative interpretation the General Assembly
held:
Presbyteries may dismiss congregations to other ecclesiastical bodies of this
denomination, and to denominations whose organization is conformed to the doctrines
and order of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). No congregation may be dismissed to
independent status, or to the status of a nondenominational congregation.25
The requirement of dismissal to another reformed body goes back to historical reformed
understandings of the importance and need to continue the reformed family as well as our
reformed theology. Further, dismissal to "another Reformed body" was also the language used
during reunion and is found in the Book of Order under the "Articles of Agreement,"26
Accordingly, if the presbytery discerns it should dismiss the congregation to another reformed
body, then the Presbytery should dismiss "pending reception into another reformed
denomination" so that the congregation does not end up in independent status if another
reformed denomination refused to admit the congregation into the denomination.
'WHO DETERMINES WHETHER THE RECEIVING BODY IS ANOTHER REFORMED BODY?
3
"It is the responsibility of the dismissing presbytery to determine whether the receiving body
meets these standards, and this responsibility cannot be delegated to any other entity within the
presbytery (such as an administrative commission). Thus the General Assembly may not
determine in advance whether a particular denomination or its constituent bodies qualify under
these standards."27 In exploring this matter, presbyteries should consider such questions as
whether the receiving body is:
"1) doctrinally consistent with the essentials of Reformed theology as understood by the
presbytery;
2) governed by a polity that is consistent in form and structure with that of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A); and
3) of sufficient permanence to offer reasonable assurance that the congregation is not being
dismissed to de facto independence."28
Further, "failure on the part of the presbytery thoroughly to explore and adequately to document
its satisfaction in these matters may thus violate, however unintentionally, the spirit of the polity
of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)"29
MAY A PRESBYTERY DELEGATE ITS FINAL DECISION TO DISMISS A CONGREGATION TO AN
ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSION?
While a presbytery could delegate dismissal of a congregation to an Administrative Commission,
such a decision is of such missionsl importance to a presbytery that the entire presbytery would
likely wish to discern such a matter together."
CAN A PRESBYTERY DISMISS ITSELF OR ALL OF ITS CONGREGATIONS?
No. A presbytery cannot release itself; or all of its congregations, for only the General Assembly
and the synod working together itself can organize, divide, unite, or combine presbyteries or
portions of a presbytery.3I
WHAT ARE GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICIES?
At the direction of the 219" General Assembly (2008), the Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.) sent a resolution to the presbyteries, synods and sessions, "indicating the will of
the assembly that presbyteries and synods develop and make available to lower governing bodies
and local congregations a process that exercises the responsibility and power 'to divide, dismiss,
or dissolve churches in consultation with their members' with consistency, pastoral
responsibility, accountability, gracious witness, openness, and transparency."32 Accordingly,
Gracious Dismissal Policies may be used by councils to offer clarity and guide their process
when discerning whether and how a particular congregation could be dismissed from the
PC(USA).
How DO GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICIES RELATE TO THE TRUST CLAUSE (G-4.0203)?
In the recent General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission (GAPJC) case, Toni v. Pbv of
San Francisco the GAPJC authoritatively interpreted how the Trust Clause found in the Book of
Order at G-4.0203 interacts with Gracious Dismissal Policies.33 The GAPJC held that while a
presbytery has broad discretionary authority tinder the Book of Order to determine property
rights [within the context of determining the mission of Jesus Clnist in the world (G-4.0201) and
in its district (a-3,0303a) to dismiss a particular congregation within its geographic region (0-
4
3.0301a)], the presbytery must fulfill its fiduciary duty under the Trust Clause (G-4.0203) to
consider the interest of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as a beneficiary of the property.
WHAT MUST BE IN A GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICY?
A presbytery has broad discretionary authority to determine the mission of Jesus Christ in its
district and may take into account many issues such as the spiritual needs of the congregation
and community as well as the Marks, Notes and Great Ends of the Church.34 The presbytery
must also consider a congregation's financial position and valuation of property and take into
consideration the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s use and benefit of the property in every
decision concerning disposition of property. Accordingly, the Gracious Dismissal Policy should
include this duty among the procedures listed within the Policy.
MUST A GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICY OR IMPLEMENTATION OF A GRACIOUS DISMISSAL
POLICY INCLUDE CONSULTATION WITH ANY OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY ENTITIES?
No, a presbytery has discretionary authority to determine the mission of Jesus Christ in its
district when deciding whether to organize, merge, dismiss or dissolve a congregation.35 This
discretionary authority includes the presbytery's consideration of a congregation's financial
position and valuation of the property.
MAY A GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICY (OR ANY BYLAW OR POLICY OF THE PRESBYTERY)
DELINEATE THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A PRESBYTERY WILL DISSOLVE, DISMISS OR
MERGE A CONGREGATION?
No. Since the presbytery must determine its mission when discerning whether to dissolve, dismiss or
merge a congregation, dismissal of a congregation requires that the presbytery make the decision about
dismissal in each separate case after careful consideration of all the circumstanees.36 A presbytery may
not discern ahead of time the circumstances in which a presbytery will dismiss a congregation.
"Dismissal of a congregation now requires, as it always has with the single exception of Article 13, that
the presbytery make the decision about dismissal in each separate case after careful consideration of all
the circumstances." 37
MAY A GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICY DESCRIBE HOW AND WHEN PROPERTY WILL BE USED
AND/OR DISTRIBUTED AMONG CONGREGATIONAL ENTITIES?
Nci. A presbytery is required to determine its mission, including the use and distribution of real and .
personal property, after careful consideration of all the circumstances on a case by case basis. 38
HOW MUST A GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICY BE IMPLEMENTED?
Even if the presbytery's Gracious Dismissal Policy does not include the fiduciary duty under the
Trust Clause, the presbytery should ultimately exercise this fiduciary duty before making its
decision about dismissal. In Tom v. Pby of San Francisco, the GAPJC stated that this would
include exercising due diligence regarding the value of the property of the congregation seeking
dismissal which would include doing a financial analysis of the value of the property.39 The
presbytery must be informed of this financial analysis before it votes on a dismissal. Providing
this information gives the presbytery and congregation the information needed to make an
informed decision regarding dismissal of the congregation.
5
WHAT TYPES OF GRACIOUS DISMISSAL POLICIES WOULD NOT BE CONSTITUTIONAL?
Any Gracious Dismissal Policy that precludes a presbytery from taking into account the Trust
Clause fiduciary duty before deciding whether to dismiss a congregation on a case-by-case basis
would be unconstitutional. Possible examples of policies that would preclude this analysis on a
case-by-case basis are:
1. Policies that only require a percentage vote from the congregation for the presbytery's
approval of terms of dismissal including only taking into account the spiritual needs or
desires of current membership and not the breaking of the historic relationship of the
members who came before.
2. Policies that only require the consideration of per capita and/or mission financial obligations
are not sufficient to meet the fiduciary duty under the Trust Clause to consider the interest of
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as a beneficiary of property.
3. Policies that require the payment by the congregation of a set percentage of assets prior to
approval for dismissal. This would serve to preclude a case-by-case analysis.
WHAT IS THE PRESBYTERY'S ROLE REGARDING RECORDS OI? A CONGREGATION SEEKING
DISMISSAL?
Presbyteries have a constitutional responsibility to safeguard the historic records of
congregations that choose to leave the denomination. According to the Book of Order, G-3.0107,
ownership of the records of dismissed or dissolved congregations passes to the presbytery, and
clerks are charged with the safekeeping ofrecords that must be maintained in perpetuity."
Depositing records with the Presbyterian Historical Society, the official archives of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), is a recommended means of preservation. The Presbyterian
Historical Society (PHS) offers stated clerks and administrative commissions several options that
may help ease the conflict over records while ensuring that vital materials are preserved by the
denomination. The desire of departing congregations to have continued access to records may be
a point of contention. By choosing to microfilm the original records and digitize the microfilm,
presbyteries, congregations and PHS will all have access to the materials 41 In sum, PHS
provides presbyteries with the capacity to: 1) Place original materials on deposit; 2) Place
materials on deposit and microfilm them; 3) Deposit, microfilm and digitize records; or 4)
microfilm, digitize and return the original records to the congregation.
IS A PRESBYTERY'S DECISION TO DISMISS A CONGREGATION SUBJECT TO REVIEW?
Yes, a presbytery's decision to dismiss a congregation is subject to review and if a presbytery
fails to carry out its constitutional responsibilities, the synod may be required to intervene by
undertaking review of the presbytery's processes and decisions.° If the synod finds that the
presbytery has not been faithful to its mission, the synod may direct the presbytery to appropriate
action." If a presbytery is unable or unwilling to carry out these constitutional responsibilities,
the synod may assume jurisdiction over the presbytery's powers to divide, dismiss or dissolve
congregations, identify true church, and hold property in trust for the use and benefit of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).45
WHAT ROLE DOES THE TRUST CLAUSE PLAY WITH REGARD TO CONGREGATIONAL LOANS?
The Trust Clause provides important support and safeguards for the low-cost loan programs for
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregations provided by the Presbyterian Investment and Loan
Program, Inc. (PEP) and the General Assembly Mission Council (GAMC). The PEP makes
low-cost loans to Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregations for new buildings and renovations
and without the trust clause, presbyteries would be unlikely to guarantee loans and without
guarantees PILP's ability to assist congregations would be significantly impaired.46 Most church
building projects cannot be financed by congregations from their current receipts and many
congregations depend on loans fiom PELP, the GAMC's Church Loan Program, or commercial
lenders to complete these projects. Generally, these loans are secured by first lien mortgages on
the property of the borrowing congregation. The property of the congregation provides the
collateral for these loans and is a potential source of repayment should the borrowing
congregation not be able to repay the loan. In addition to being secured, these loans are
guaranteed by the presbytery of jurisdiction of the borrowing congregation. This means the
presbytery is responsible to pay back the loan should the borrowing congregation fail to pay. The
presbyteries have confidence in guaranteeing these secured loans due in part to the fact that
church property is held in trust under G-4.0203. Further, G-4.0204 states:
Whenever property of, or held for, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A)
ceases to be used by that congregation as a congregation of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) in accordance with this Constitution, such property shall be held, used, applied,
transferred, or sold as provided by the presbytery.
Under 0-4.0204, when a congregation ceases to exist or leaves the denomination, the
congregation's property (which includes, but is not limited to, its real property, building, and
other assets such as investments) is subject to the control of the presbytery of jurisdiction. The
presbytery continues to be responsible for mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in the
area of the departing tongregation, and the presbytery can use the property to implement that
mission. If the departing congregation has a secured loan with PILP, guaranteed by the
presbytery, the presbytery would have the ability to retain the property or the presbytery could
use the property to raise finds to satisfy the presbytery's responsibility under the guaranty. As
noted above, a presbytery may discern and give some or all of this property to a departing
congregation, but this choice will not result in a release of the obligation to repay the secured
loan and/or in the release of the guaranty.
If a congregation has a secured loan with PILP and/or the GAMC and chooses to leave the
denomination or is dissolved by a presbytery, the terms of the loan provide that the loan is
accelerated and becomes immediately due and payable. The guarantee of the presbytery is not
satisfied until the loan is paid in full. Our connectional system and the fact that property owned
and used by congregations is held in trust for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) allows the
denomination to assist local congregations by providing low interest mortgages through national
entities such as PEP and the Church Loan Program. The assurances and protections given under
the trust clause help enable these programs to make loans secured by mortgages of the
underlying property which are more financially beneficial for the congregations than traditional
loan sources.
In the current economy and in the aftermath of the banking crisis, it has become increasingly
difficult for small and mid-size congregations to obtain financing for capital projects from banks.
7
It is often new, young, or struggling congregations that need the resources of the denomination
the most and the PILP is able to meet these needs of these and other Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) congregations. Without the current trust clause of the Book of Order, it is important to
recognize that presbyteries would be unlikely to guarantee loans and without guarantees PILP's
ability to assist congregations would be significantly impaired.
Updated February 2014
0-4.0203
2 PSC (2012, 221-03 Torn et. al. vs. ?by of San Francisco)
3 This necessity for adoption of 0-4.0203 arose from court decisions that changed the permissible role of courts in
determining disputes as to church property. Until a few years before the adoption of G-4.0203, courts determining
property disputes sought to detennine from the doctrinal documents of a denomination whether the property of local
congregations was held in trust for the larger church (this was referred to as the "implied trust" analysis). However,
in 1979, the United States Supreme Court found that this type of inquiry into the doctrine of a denomination was an
improper intrusion into the First Amendment right to freedom of religion. Accordingly, the courts were required to
determine property disputes without seeking to interpret a denomination's doctrine (the so-called neutral principles
of law analysis). For Presbyterians, this change in the legal framework the civil courts applied suggested specific
reference in property matters in a denomination's constitutional documents was prudent. Section 0-4.0203 provides
that explicit understanding of the long held Presbyterian understanding. As such, it was not a change in our
Presbyterian polity, but rather an attempt to protect the denomination's polity against changes in the permissible
framework of legal analysis applied by the civil courts.
In John 17:20-21, Jesus prayerfully desires unity in the Church saying: 20 c'My prayer is not for them alone. I pray
also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in
me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. Paul picks up on
this theme in Galatians and Ephesians; Galatians 3:28 says "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free,
nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Ephesians 4:3, "Make every effort to keep the
unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Along these same lines, F-1.03.91 reminds us that our "church is
called to be a community of love, where sin is forgiven, reconciliation is accomplished, and the dividing walls of
hostility are torn down."
5 GA (2006), Report of the Task Force on Peace, Unity, and Purity, 06-01, Rec. 1, a-b.
6 G-3.0101
7 G-1.0101
See F-1.02 "Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church;" see also F-1.0403
5 G-4.0201
I° G-1.0101
" 0-3.0101
12 0-3.0301; 0-3.0303(a)
13 0-3.0301(a)
14 G-3.0301(c)
15 0-4.0207
16 See 0-3.0301; G-3.0303(a)
IT GA (2181h, Item 4-20); see also PSC (Sundquist v. Heartland, Remedial Case 219-03 2008)
15 See G-1.0503 and G-3.02
19 Sundquist v. Heartland, Remedial Case 219-03
"See PCUS 1976, 92, Strong v. Synod of Wirt-South.
21 Sundquist v. Heartland, Remedial Case 219-03
22 Sundquist v. Heartland, Remedial Case 219-03
23 Sundquist V. Heantand, Remedial Case 219-03
24 GA (2008, 14, 15 Item 07-13). For more information on authoritative interpretations see G-3.0501c and 0-6.02
25 GA (2008, 14, 15 Item 07-13). Along these lines, The General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission has
found that "[amn 'independent' or 'congregational' Presbyterian church is an anomaly which runs counter to the notion
8
that we are a 'family' of churches and dismissal must therefore be made to another church within the family group ...
The ... presbytery had no constitutional right to dismiss ...the churches to independent status. ... The policy of
not allowing members and ministers to be cut loose with no lies indicates the historic Presbyterian policy of
ecclesiastical connectionalism. This policy likewise forbids ... dismissal to independency" (PCUS 1973, pp. 119-
121, Anderson v. Synod of Florida).
26 See the Book of Order Appendix B, Article 13 (page B. 13). The "Articles of Agreement" are cited here for
historical purposes and do not carry constitutional authority.
27 GA (2008; 14, 15 Item 07-13).
75 GA (2008, 14, 15 Item 07-13).
"GA (2008, 14, 15 Item 07-13).
30 Sundquist v. Heartland, Remedial Case 219-03' see also (PCUS 1976, 92, Strong v. Synod of Mid-South)
31 G-3.0502(e)
32 GA (2008, 49, 51, 284, Item 04-28) The 218th General Assembly (2008) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
1. Directs the Stated Clerk to send this resolution to the presbyteries, synods, and sessions, indicating the will
of the assembly that presbyteries and synods develop and make available to lower governing bodies and local
congregations a process that exercises the responsibility and power "to divide, dismiss, or dissolve churches in
consultation with their members" (Book of Order, 0-11.0103i) with consistency, pastoral responsibility,
accountability, gracious witness, openness, and transparency.
2. Believing that trying to exercise this responsibility and power through litigation is deadly to the cause of
Christ, impacting the local church, other parts of the Body of Christ and ecumenical relationships, and our
witness to Christ in the world around us, [the General Assembly] urges [congregations considering leaving the
denomination,] presbyteries[,] and synods to implement a process using the following principles:
• Consistency: The local authority delegated to presbyteries is guided and shaped by our shared
faith, service, and witness to Jesus Christ.
• Pastoral Responsibility: The requirement in G-11.0103i to consult with the members of a church
seeking dismissal highlights the presbytery's pastoral responsibility, which must not be submerged beneath
other responsibilities.
• Accountability: For a governing body, accountability rightly dictates fiduciary and connectional
concerns, raising general issues ofproperty (0-8.0000) and specific issues of schism within a congregation
(0-8.0600). But, full accountability also requires preeminent concern with "caring for the flock."
• Gracious Witness: It is our belief that Scripture and the Holy Spirit require a gracious witness
from us rather than a harsh legalism.
• Openness and Transparency: Early, open communication and transparency about principles and
process of dismissal necessarily serve truth, order, and goodness, and work against seeking civil litigation
as a solution.
33 PJC (2014, 221-03, Tom et al v. Pbv of San Francisco)
34 See F-1.0302; F-1.0303; F-1.0304.
05
However, in considering each congregation on a case-by-case basis, it is important to recognize that one of the
entities of the General Assembly or a synod may have created with the congregation and the presbytery a direct
financial interest in the property or assets and thus must be consulted by the presbytery. For example, The
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Investment and Loan Program (PILP) regularly extends loans to congregations which
are secured by the property and/or guarantee of payment from a presbytery. A presbytery that is considering the
dismissal or dissolution of a congregation with a secured or unsecured loan from PILP must, as a part of the
presbytery's fiduciary interest under the Trust clause, consult with the Presbytery Investment and Loan Program.
5 GA (Minutes, 1991, Req. 91-24, Part I, p 396).
37
GA (Minutes, 1991, Req. 91-24, Part I, p 396).
38
GA (Minutes, 1991, Req. 91-24, Part I, p 396).
39
PJC (2014, 221-03, Tom et al v. Pby of San Francisco)
90 G-3.0107 states, "each council shall keep a full and accurate record of its proceedings. Minutes and all other
official records of councils are the property in perpetuity of said councils or their legal successors. When a council
ceases to exist, its records shall become the property of the next higher council within whose bounds the lower
council was prior to its cessation. The clerk of each council shall make recommendation to that body for the
permanent safekeeping of the body's records with the Presbyterian Historical Society or in a temperature and
humidity controlled environment of a seminary of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)."
9
41 The PHS microfilming program creates archival-quality film at a reduced cost for PC(USA) entities, and if
requested, PHS will arrange for the production of a digital edition of the microfilm in PDF or JPEG format at cost.
Presbyteries may opt to pay for microfilming (and digitization) or ask the departing congregations to cover the costs.
After the records are microfilmed, stated clerks may decide to place the original records on deposit at PHS or return
them to the departing congregation as part of a gracious dismissal agreement.
42 For more information about these processes, please contact: Presbyterian Historical Society, 425 Lombard Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19147. Phone (215)-627-.1852. Email: refdeskahistory.pcusa.org or via the web at:
www.history.pcusa.org
43 G-3.0108(a)&(b); see also F-3.0206
44 G-3.0108(a)(b)&(c)
45 See G-3.0401(c); G-3.0301(a); G-3.0303(b); G-4.0203 &G-4.0207.
46 The funds for PILP loans are generated through the sale of Term Notes, which are debt securities to PC(USA)
members and congregations and the sale of Denominational Account receipts (DARs) accounts to mid councils and
PC(USA) agencies. The interest paid on these Term Notes and DARs and any redemptions are funded by the interest
and principal repayment of the loans to congregations. The PILP relies on the congregation's repayment of principal
and interest to be able to pay interest to investors and to repay principal to investors at maturity. The PILP
administers the Church Loan Program for the GAMC. The Church Loan Program is a mission program under the
responsibility of the GAMC and the principal corporation of the General Assembly, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),
A Corporation, where endowment funds are also used to make low-cost loans to congregations.
Updated February 2014
10
PERMANENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION
OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A.)
Presbytery of New York City
Appellant (Respondent)
VS.
DECISION AND ORDER
Ruling Elder Mildred McGee, Teaching
Elder Flora Wilson Bridges, Ruling Elder Remedial Case 221-08
Douglas Howard, Teaching Elder Lonnie
Bryant, Ruling Elder Daniel Amiot Priso,
Teaching Elder Phillip Newell, Ruling Elder
Emmanuel Gouad Njayick, Teaching Elder
George Todd, Ruling Elder Estella Taylor,
and Ruling lder Norita Chisolm
Appellees
(Complainants)
Arrival Statement
This filing before the Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly (GAPJC
or this Commission) is an appeal of a Decision of the Permanent Judicial Commission of the
Synod of the Northeast (SPJC) rendered on September 11, 2013. The Notice of Appeal was
received by the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly on September 23, 2013.
Parties
Appellant/Respondent is The Presbytery of New York City (RNYC).
Appellees/Complainants are Ruling Elder Mildred McGee, Teaching Elder Flora Wilson
Bridges, Ruling Elder Douglas Howard, Teaching Elder Lonnie Bryant, Ruling Elder Daniel
Amiot Priso, Teaching Elder Phillip Newell, Ruling Elder Emmanuel Gouad Njayick, Teaching
Elder George Todd, Ruling Elder Estella Taylor, and Ruling Elder Norita Chisolm.
Jurisdictional Statement
This Commission finds that it has jurisdiction, that Appellants have standing to file the
Appeal, that the Appeal was properly and timely filed, and that the Appeal states one or more of
the grounds for appeal under D-8.0105.
Appearances
Appellant/Respondent was represented by John Grieco and Reade Ryan. Appellees/
Complainants were represented by Tee Gee Wilson and Lisa Borge.
History
On February 13, 2013, the Stated Clerk of the Synod of the Northeast received a
Remedial Complaint from Ruling Elder Mildred McGee, et alia, alleging that the action of the
PNYC in adopting and implementing its Gracious Dismissal Policy (GDP) was irregular in
regard to constitutional requirements of The Presbyterian Church U.S.A. (PC(U.S.A.)).
The development of the GDP by the PNYC began early in 2012, informed by Resolution
04-28, GA Minutes (2008, Part II, pp. 284-285) of the 218th General Assembly (2008) (GA)
urging presbyteries to formulate a gracious and pastoral response to churches requesting
dismissal from the PC(U.S.A.). This GA resolution, although not an authoritative interpretation,
was used as the basis for the development of the GDP. Just after that Assembly, in October 2008,
the PNYC through its Committee on Mission and Finance, which also served as the Board of
Trustees (BoT), obtained a realtor's opinion of value of the properties held by all its
congregations. Almost four years later, in July 2012, the BoT created a draft GDP that was
distributed to the PNYC for its meeting on July 28, 2012. There was no discussion of the draft at
that meeting. A later draft was given a first reading and discussion at the December 6, 2012,
meeting of the PNYC. After two open hearings on December 13 and 20, 2012, the present GDP
was approved by the PNYC on January 29, 2013, by a vote of 56 in favor and 49 against.
The SPJC summarized the GDP in the following way:
PNYC GDP allows sessions to request initiation of the dismissal
process following a 2/3 vote. Upon receipt of the notice, the stated clerk then
calls one or more meetings between the Special Resolution's Committee of the
presbytery and the session (or• its representatives), as well as the HOT (or• its
representatives) during the 120-day period following receipt of the notice. If
the filing notice is not withdrawn at the end of the period, a congregational
meeting is called (50% quorum) and dismissal is approved if confirmed by a
3/4 congregational vote. Financial arrangements include payment of any
arrears in per capita, five years of per capita payments on a declining scale,
and compensation for church property of 10% of the assessed value that
exceeds $1,000,000, with a cap on the compensation of $2,000,000.
In addition, the policy allows for a downward adjustment or waiver in the case of hardship.
With the remedial complaint, Complainant also requested a Stay of Enforcement. The
Executive Committee (EC) of the SPJC answered the Preliminary Questions in the affirmative
and the Stay of Enforcement was subsequently granted by the SPJC.
Respondent requested an extension of the deadline for filing its response and the SPJC
granted this extension. Respondent submitted a motion to the SPJC on April 29, 2013, to refer
the case to the GAPJC, to which Complainants responded on May 14, 2013. The SPJC denied
the motion on May 23, 2013. Respondent filed a second motion on July 2, 2013, asking the
2
SPJC to reconsider its decision to deny the earlier motion to refer• the case to the GAPJC, to
which Complainants again responded on July 16, 2013. The SPJC EC denied this motion on
July 27, 2013.
Complainant filed for relief on February 13, 2013, and this remedial case was decided by
the SPJC on September• 11, 2013. In its decision, the SPX sustained five of the seven
specifications of error by Complainant and ordered that the GDP of the PNYC shall be set aside
and shall have no force or effect.
Specifications of Error
Specification No. 1: The SPJC erred in constitutional interpretation by holding
that the Presbytery GDP conferred a unilateral right on a congregation to departfrom the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), in violation of G-4.0207 and Sundquist v. Heartland Presbytery,
GA PJC 219-03.
This specification of error is not sustained.
While it may be understandable for a presbytery to develop a policy dealing with
congregations considering dismissal with the intention of avoiding costly litigation, the GDP at
the center of this case breaches the bounds of the Constitution of the PC(U.S.A.). The PNYC
GDP exhibits substantial constitutional flaws in at least three ways concerning this specification
of error. First, the GDP establishes a dismissal process that, as the SPX notes, is "self-
executing," whereby fulfillment of a series of steps arid conditions automatically enacts dismissal
upon their completion. A final vote by the PNYC is purposefully denied in the GDP in order to
avoid divisive and argumentative response to a dismissal request, as admitted by the PNYC in
the record and during arguments. Even though the process contains provisions for• consultation
with the PNYC and congregational input, it is in fact a predetermined and formulaic mechanism
that replaces a final specific review and vote by the PNYC. The Constitution at G-3.0301a
reserves as a direct act of the presbytery the authority to dismiss a church, a polity provision
explicitly reasserted by G-4.0207.
As the SPJC noted, the PNYC does not need an independent policy in order to
accomplish a just and effective dismissal:
The Respondent has asserted that an order by this Commission to set aside this
GDP would leave the presbytery in limbo and render it unable to reach any
agreements on dismissal agreements, leaving only the option of costly
litigation. This is a seriously overreaching assessment. We are sensitive to the
difficult situation in which the PNYC finds itself and appreciate its sincere
desire to deal with that as well as it can....[A dismissal agreement] can be
achieved, either through Administrative Commissions appointed in each case
that presents itself and is empowered to do so, or, indeed, by a Special
Resolutions Committee, preparing the proposal for presbytery action.
Considering that the presbytery mustered a majority vote, however slim, for the
GDP under consideration in this case, and with the case-by-case requirement
satisfied in these cases, it ought to be possible for the PNYC to reach
agreement on approval for such dismissal-arrangements.
3
The second constitutional error in the GDP is its provision that the vote by a congregation
effectuates the dismissal process. This vote terminates the process and has the authority to effect
dismissal without any constitutional authority so to act. The final certification by the PNYC is
merely perfunctory. Further, such a congregational vote is not authorized within the permitted
functions of a congregation in G-1.0503 and is specifically prohibited in Sundquist et al vs.
Heartland Presbytery: "Withdrawal from the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is not a matter that
can be considered at a congregational meeting" and the consultations of presbytery with
members of the congregation "are not meetings at which business of the congregation may be
conducted." Sundquist 219-03, 2008. [GA Minutes, (2010, Part II, pp. 362-367).] It should also
be noted that the General Assembly in 1991 declared: "Nowhere is written that the congregation
is permitted to make the decision that the presbytery commits itself in advance to confirm." GA
Minutes (1991, Req. 91-24, Part I, p.411). In spite of this stream of clear constitutional
interpretation, the GDP portrays a self-implementing dismissal rooted in a congregational
decision in violation of the exclusive right and responsibility of a presbytery to dismiss a
congregation.
The third constitutional error of the GDP is that a predetermined, formulaic mechanism
runs counter to constitutional provisions for mutual dialogue and particular discernment. This
Commission has previously-rejected such approaches in matters related to ordination and
membership Larson 221-04, 2012. The presbytery's right and responsibility for specific review
and the necessity of individualized consideration on sensitive matters in the life of the church
remain a core concept of PC(U.S.A.) polity.
Specification of Error No. 2: The SPJC erred in constitutional interpretation by holding
that the GDP does not give effect to the Trust Clause (G-4.0203) as required by Tom v.
Presbytery of San Francisco, GA PJC 221-03 and G-4.0204.
This specification of error is not sustained.
The Book of Order provides in G-4.0203 that "[s]ll property held by or for a
congregation, a presbytery, a synod, the General Assembly, or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),
...is held in trust nevertheless for the use and benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)." The
Trust Clause was interpreted by this Commission in Tom, et al., v. Presbytery of San Francisco,
as it related to that presbytery's gracious dismissal policy, in the context of a number of factors
including both spiritual and pecuniary aspects of the fiduciary responsibility. In Tom, this
Commission said:
When a congregation seeks dismissal under G-11.0103i (now G-3.0301a), it is the
responsibility of the Presbytery to fulfill its fiduciary duty under the Trust Clause.
This fiduciary duty requires that the Presbytery exercise due diligence regarding
the value of the property of the congregation seeking dismissal. Due diligence, of
necessity, includes not only an evaluation of the spiritual needs of -the
congregation and its circumstances but also financial analysis of the value of the
property at stake. Payment for per capita for missions obligations are not
satisfactory substitutes for the separate evaluation of the value of the property
held in trust. Tom, et al., v. The Presbytery of San Francisco, Remedial Case
221-03, 2012.
4
This Commission is again called upon in this case to clarify the parameters of the Trust
Clause. The Trust Clause creates an express trust in favor of the PC(U.S.A.) as a whole and not
for the presbytery, the congregation, or any other body. Therefore, the presbytery, acting in the
role of trustee, must exercise due diligence such that its determination is both reasonable and
evident in the record. While presbytery is entitled to deference in making the fiduciary decisions
under the Trust Clause, such deference is limited by the fiduciary obligations owed to the whole
church.
Under the facts of this case, the PNYC argues that the requirement of due diligence under
the Trust Clause has been met by adopting a formula for determining the value of the property at
the time of enacting the GDP by the PNYC. However, the fiduciary nature of the Trust Clause
requires an individual determination of the facts and circumstances related to dismissal of any -
church rather than a set formula, which may not be appropriate to the particular circumstances of
a congregation. As stated by the SPJC, there must be an "individual assessment and valuation of
the church's unique situation, finances, history, spiritual needs and financial needs" when
considering dismissal.
In addition, the exercise of the.fiduciary duty must be carried out during the course of
discernment of a particular church's request for dismissal. A formulaic predetermination fails to
account for the individualized requirement demanded by proper application of the fiduciary duty
incumbent upon a presbytery. The SPJC correctly determined that the PNYC, acting as a
fiduciary, may not abdicate this role (0-4.0207 and G-3.0303b). The record shows that the
PNYC sought to avoid conflict and litigation. However, condom about conflict and litigation
cannot justify abandonment of constitutional mandates.
Thus, the presbytery, in exercising its authority to perform'due diligence under the
fiduciary duties required by the Trust Clause, is required to make an appropriately timed,
individual, unique determination of the circumstances applicable to any church requesting
dismissal. In accountability to the PC(U.S.A.) as the beneficiary under the Trust Clause, such
determination must be reasonable and based on documented facts. The GDP enacted by the
PNYC fails to meet these requirements and, therefore, is unconstitutional.
Specification of Error No. 3: The SPJC erred in constitutional interpretation by holding
that the GDP did not provide specific guidance regarding discernment of theological differences
as a basis for dismissal, in violation of F-I.0302a and F-1.0301.
This specification of error is not sustained.
The PNYC adopted the GDP "to provide for reconciliation and resolution within the
Presbytery of New York City" and to permit their congregations to be dismissed to join another
Reformed denomination for theological reasons. The policy did not seek reconciliation and
resolution as the initial step in the process (G-4.0207). The policy accepts notice from a
congregation of perceived theological differences as sufficient for dismissal without concern for
mutual discernment and dialogue (Sundquist). It is the nature and weight of theological
difference that is critical in a justification for• dismissal. The mere presence of theological •
differences does not preclude coexistence within the PC(U.S.A.). As stated in F-3.0105 "there
are truths and forms with respect to which men of good characters and principles may differ.
And in all these we think it the duty of private Christians and societies to exercise mutual
forbearance toward each other•." The GDP contains no procedures to encourage early discussion
5
with the PNYC about a congregation's perceived differences. As indicated in F-3.0204
"Presbyters are not simply to reflect the will of the people, but rather to seek together to find and
represent the will of Christ." Without dialogue there cannot be a mutual understanding of the
will of the people. Without joint discernment councils can misunderstand the will of Christ The
SPJC rightly concluded it was important that the PNYC "ensure that dismissal is the only viable
remedy for the relevant theological differences."
Specification of Error No. 4:• The SPJC erred in constitutional interpretation by holding
that the GDP did not provide an opportunity for the minority of a church in schism to retain the
property of a congregation, in violation of G-4.0207.
This specification of error is not sustained.
The PNYC GDP ignores the constitutional requirement under 0-4.0207 to "determine if
one of the factions is entitled to the property because it is identified by the presbytery as the true
church within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)." The GDP process is initiated when the PNYC
receives a written notice from the session. At that point, the PNYC automatically surrenders its
constitutional obligation to determine whether a loyal faction exists and is entitled to the
property. Under the GDP provisions, there is no attempt to identify the true church within the
PC(U.S.A.). A fully implemented GDP effectively guarantees the property for those seeking
dismissal.
It is clear what a presbytery must do when confronted with a property issue. Under 0-
4.0207, a presbytery is obligated to serve the interests and guard the rights of the "true church
within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)," regardless of who is in the majority of any session or
congregational vote. The presbytery shall determine if one of the factions is entitled to the
property because it is the "hue church within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)," majority
notwithstanding. Any negotiation and decision about the disposition of the property must
consider this interest of the true church. The GDP failed to comply with 0-4.0207.
Specification of Error No. 5: The SPJC erred in constitutional interpretation by holding
that the GDP allowed a dismissed congregation to retain its records, in violation of G-3.0107.
This specification of error is not sustained.
According to G-3.0107, when a congregation is dismissed to another denomination its
session ceases to exist as a council of the PC(U.S.A.). The successor to a former church council
is the presbytery and upon dismissal of the congregation the minutes and registers of the session
become the property and responsibility of the presbytery. The presbytery may make provision for
the departing congregation to retain copies of the records for historical purposes.
Decision
For the reasons set forth above, this Commission finds that The Permanent Judicial
Commission of the Synod of the Northeast did not err and affirms its decision.
6
Order
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that the Decision of the Synod of the Northeast
Permanent Judicial Commission is hereby sustained in its entirety and that the Gracious
Dismissal Policy of The Presbytery of New York City be set aside and shall have no force or
effect.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Stated Clerk of the Synod, of the Northeast report
this Decision to the Synod of the Northeast at the first meeting after receipt, that the Synod of the
Northeast enter the full Decision upon its minutes and an excerpt from those minutes showing
entry of the Decision be sent to the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery of New York City
report this Decision to the Presbytery of New York City at the first meeting after receipt, that the
Presbytery of New York City enter the full Decision upon its minutes and an excerpt from those
minutes showing entry of the Decision be sent to the. Stated Clerk of the General Assembly.
Absences and Non-Appearances
Commissioner Mary Charlotte McCall did not participate in the hearing or deliberations.
Certificate
We certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Decision of the Permanent
Judicial Commission of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Remedial
case 221-08, The Presbytery of New York City, Appellant (Respondent), v. Ruling Elder
Mildred McGee, Teaching Elder Flora Wilson Bridges, Ruling Elder Douglas Howard, Teaching
Elder Lonnie Bryant, Ruling Elder Daniel Amiot Priso, Teaching Elder Phillip Newell, Ruling
Elder Emmanuel Gouad Njayick, Teaching Elder George Todd, Ruling Elder Estella Taylor, and
Ruling Elder Norita Chisolm, Appellees (Complainants), made and announced at San Antonio,
TX this 4th day of May, 2014.
Dated this 4th day of May, 2014.
Bradley C. Copeland, Moderator
Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly
Jay Lewis, Clerk
Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly
I certify that I did transmit a certified copy of the foregoing to the following persons by
Federal Express Next Day Air, directing C. Laurie Griffith to deposit it in the mail at San
Antonio, TX this 5th day of May, 2014.
7
John M. Griem, Jr., Committee of Counsel for Appellant (Respondent)
Trim Moore, Counsel for Appellees (Complainants)
Stated Clerk, Synod of the Northeast
Stated Clerk, Presbytery of New York City
General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission
I further certify that I did transmit a certified copy of the foregoing to the Stated Clerk of
the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) by delivering it in person to C. Laurie
Griffith, on May 4, 2014.
Jay Lewis, Clerk
Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly
I certify that I received a certified copy of the foregoing, that it is a full and correct copy
of the decision of the Permanent Judicial Commission of the General Assembly of the .
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), sitting during an interval between meetings of the General
Assembly, in San Antonio, TX on May 4, 2014, in Remedial Case 221-08, The Presbytery of
New York City, Appellant (Respondent) v. Ruling Elder Mildred McGee, Teaching Elder Flora
Wilson Bridges, Ruling Elder Douglas Howard, Teaching Elder Lonnie Bryant, Ruling Elder
Daniel Amiot Priso, Teaching Elder Phillip Newell, Ruling Elder Emmanuel Gonad Njayick,
Teaching Elder George Todd, Ruling Elder Estella Taylor, and Ruling Elder Norita Chisolm,
Appellees (Complainants) and that it is the final judgment of the General Assembly of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in the case.
Dated at San Antonio, TX on May 4, 2014.
C. Laurie Griffith
Manager of Judicial Process and Social Witness
Exhibit D
Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure-Approved
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Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure
2 PROLOGUE
3 The vision of the Presbytery of New Covenant is to Grow congregations that passionately engage their
4 community to make disciples. Our mission is to -
5 • Confess Jesus Christ as Lord
6 • Connect one another in ministry
7 • Challenge one another for mission.
8 The Presbytery of New Covenant seeks to facilitate worship, mission, and other shared ministries by
9 engaging all churches in our bounds to be united in carrying out our vision and mission. We believe The
10 Mission of God as expressed in the Great Ends of the Church is greater than the PC (U.S.A.).
11 Recognizing that polity changes have caused some congregations to reconsider their connection with the
12 PC (U.S.A.), the Presbytery has adopted a Procedure for Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal,
13 Nonetheless, a fundamental understanding from our Presbyterian heritage is one of connection rather than
14 division. We believe that we discern the will of God more clearly in any particular time and place when we
15 are in communion with each other than when we are separated. However, the Presbytery acknowledges
16 that the particular forms of communion may shift over time, always reforming to better serve the mission of
17 our Lord, Christ Jesus.
18 Presbytery of New Covenant
19 Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure
20 The Presbytery of New Covenant is committed to pursuing reconciliation with pastors, Sessions, and
21 congregations who are considering dismissal from the denomination. Whether that reconciliation takes the
22 form of dismissal, mutually accepted re-commitment to the Presbytery-congregational relationship, or
23 something in-between, it is the will of this Presbytery to create a gracious context and process in which the
24 will of God is sought for the life, ministry, and calling of the particular congregation. All congregations of
25 this Presbytery are invited to commit to this broad understanding of reconciliation with a graciousness
26 befitting those who claim Jesus as Lord.
27 The Presbytery and congregations will be continually guided by these three principles:
28 1. The Mission of God as expressed in the Great Ends of the Church extends beyond the mission of
29 the PC (U.S.A.). Therefore, we affirm that a congregation seeking dismissal to another Reformed
30 Body does not diminish the unity of the one Church of Jesus Christ (F-I.0302 and F-1.0304).
31 2. The exercise of "mutual forbearance" is of utmost importance in our process. Therefore, all will
32 treat each other with respect regardless of theological and ecclesiological differences.
33 3. We will pray and work for fairness to all parties in our decisions.
34 It is the Presbytery's belief that in adopting this Procedure congregations who faithfully follow it as a way
35 of discerning if God would have them affiliate with another Reformed denomination are not engaged in
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36 schism and that therefore the Presbytery's understanding is that G-4.0207 (Property of a Church in Schism)
37 does not apply to congregations faithfully following this process.
38 If a Session chooses not to follow this Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure, undertakes
39 actions attempting to revoke adherence to G-4.0203 of the Book of Order, or files suit in civil court against
40 the Presbytery of New Covenant or higher councils of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), then the
41 "Alternative Process for a Church Seeking Dismissal from the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)" will apply.
42 In all matters relating to this subject, discerning answers to the following three questions will be deemed
43 paramount:
44 1. Is God leading this particular congregation to restore fellowship with the Presbyterian Church
45 (U.S.A.), or to seek dismissal from the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)?
46 2. If God is leading this congregation toward restoration of fellowship with the Presbyterian Church
47 (USA), how can that be accomplished in a way that honors Jesus Christ and strengthens both the
48 congregation and the Presbytery?
49 3. If God is leading this congregation to seek dismissal from the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), how
50 can that be accomplished in a way that honors Jesus Christ and strengthens both the congregation
51 and the Presbytery?
52 The Presbytery asks that any Session seeking or considering dismissal from the denomination to covenant
53 with the Presbytery to enter into this defined process of mutual discernment through the formation of a
54 Discernment Team from the Presbytery and the local congregation (see "Discernment Procedure" below).
55 As described below, this process shall take no less than six months and ordinarily will take no more than
56 two years from the date of the congregational vote to enter the Discernment Procedure, The Discernment
57 Team will report and make recommendations to both the church and the Presbytery.
58 DISCERNMENT PROCEDURE
59 Because reconciliation is the desired outcome of any disagreement between the congregation and the
60 Presbytery, informal public conversations between the congregation and the Presbytery are expected prior
61 to entering the Discernment Procedure to facilitate mutual understanding and reconciliation. Such
62 meetings might take the form of town hall presentations, Sunday School classes, meetings of Presbytery
63 representatives with the Session and/or congregation, or other appropriate venues.
64 After such conversations, a Session wishing to initiate a formal process shall put the matter to a vote. If at a
65 duly noticed meeting with appropriate quorum, the Session votes by two-thirds majority to initiate the
66 discernment process, the Clerk of Session shall contact the Presbytery office and inform the Stated Clerk of
67 the Presbytery of this desire. The Session shall then vote on whether to arrange for an assembly of the
68 congregation moderated by the pastor or his/her designee for the purpose of advising the Session regarding
69 participation in the discernment process. Notice for this assembly must be given on two Sundays prior to
70 the assembly and at least 10% of the membership must be in attendance. The most recent edition of
71 Robert's Rules of Order will apply for the purpose of this assembly. An advisory vote shall be taken on the
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72 motion to enter into the Discernment Procedure. If approved, any subsequent advisory vote regarding
73 dismissal from the PC (U.S.A.) to another Reformed Body shall require attendance of at least 30% of the
74 membership. After receiving advice from the congregation, the Session may vote to enter the procedure. If
75 approved by the Session, the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery, the Moderator of General Council, the
76 Moderator of Session and the Clerk of Session will sign a Covenant Agreement (see page 12), and
77 representatives for the Discernment Team may be selected.
78 The Discernment Team shall consist of four representatives from the church and four representatives from
79 the Presbytery. The Session of the congregation shall select the representatives from the church, two of
80 whom shall be from the Session, and two at large active members of the congregation. The General Council
81 shall select two Ruling Elders and two Teaching Elders from the Presbytery. The Stated Clerk of the
82 Presbytery shall select a facilitator in consultation with the Discernment Team members. The facilitator
83 shall not be one of the eight members of the Discernment Team and shall have voice but not vote during
84 the discernment process. The Discernment Team shall covenant to meet together a minimum of five times.
85 In order to fulfill the constitutional responsibility of the Presbytery under the Book of Order, the Presbytery
86 of New Covenant understands that church property is held in trust for the PC(U.S.A.) G-4.0203, and
87 recognizes that the use of the property is for the benefit of PC(U.S.A.). Accordingly, the General Presbyter
88 will arrange for a financial evaluation to provide an "individual assessment and valuation of the church's
89 unique situation, finances, history, spiritual needs and financial needs." (Reference Tom, et al., v. The
90 Presbytery of San Francisco, Remedial Case 221-03, 2012). Consideration shall include all current
91 financial information, value of the property and future viability of the ministry. The General Presbyter shall
92 appoint representatives recommended by Administrative Division Steering Committee and approved by
93 General Council to form a Financial Analysis Consultation Team (FACT) to carry out a financial analysis.
94 This process will include discussion with the Session and must conclude before the Discernment Team
95 reports to the Session in order that the results may be included in the report of the Discernment Team.
96 The Session shall provide as soon as possible the following items to the General Presbyter:
97 • The Operating Budget as of the date of the assembly of the congregation on which the congregation
98 voted to enter the Procedure and previous two year's operating budgets.
99 • The appraised value of the property, including land.
100 • The insured value of the property, including all assets.
101 • Existing liens on the property.
102 • Outstanding loans of the congregation.
103 • Current financial statements — audited income statements and balance sheet of the congregation,
104 including all assets of any subsidiary or controlled entity.
105 • Insofar as practical, a history of property acquisition and values.
106 • The membership email and mail address list.
107 The Discernment Process
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108 After meeting at least twice, the Discernment Team will create or approve a process of prayer and
109 discernment to listen and speak to the concerns, sensitivities and questions of congregation members.
110 Throughout all the steps of this procedure, the Discernment Team is responsible for assuring equal
111 opportunity for all viewpoints to be brought before the congregation and for all congregation members to
112 have opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns. The Discernment Team will seek to assure that
113 resource materials provided to the congregation fairly and accurately represent all viewpoints.
114 First Meeting
115 The first meeting of the Discernment Team shall be convened by the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery
116 (or the Clerk's designated representative) to review this Procedure. The Discernment Team will
117 engage in extended time of prayer and introductions and share their faith stories, their understanding
118 of the spiritual and theological issues at stake between the congregation and the Presbyterian
119 Church (U.S.A.), and pray for God's guidance for reconciliation. Following the first meeting, the
120 Discernment Team will meet at least four more times. The expected content of the meetings is
121 outlined below.
122 Second Meeting
123 The facilitator of the Discernment Team will guide a prayerful dialogue on foundational theological
124 issues. The purpose of this discussion is to identify the extent of common theological and
125 ecclesiastical ground between the congregation and the denomination as a basis for reconciliation.
126 This meeting will be primarily for dialogue.
127 Third Meeting
128 The Discernment Team, in consultation with the Session, will create or approve a process of prayer
129 and discernment to listen and speak to the concerns, sensitivities and questions of congregation
130 members.
131 Fourth Meeting
132 The Discernment Team will meet to review the progress of the process of prayer and discernment
133 being implemented by the Session. The Discernment Team will address the concerns, sensitivities
134 and questions of congregation members.
135 Additional Meetings
136 The content of additional meetings will be determined mutually by members of the Discernment
137 Team.
138 Report of the Discernment Team
139 Upon completion of the prayer and discernment process, the Discernment Team will prepare a
140 report with recommendations to be presented to the Session and subsequently to the congregation in
141 one or more "town hall" meetings.
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142 If the Session determines the congregation is still called by God to remain in covenant relationship with the
143 Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), both parties will work together to heal any broken relationships (see
144 "Guidelines for Restoration of Fellowship and Recommitment to Presbytery-Congregational Relationship"
145 below).
146 If the Session concludes that the congregation may be called by God to be dismissed from the PCUSA to
147 another Reformed body, the Session shall follow the "Procedure for Seeking Dismissal."
148 GUIDELINES FOR RESTORATION OF FELLOWSHIP AND
149 RECOMMITMENT TO PRESBYTERY-CONGREGATIONAL
150 RELATIONSHIP
151 The result of a congregational advisory vote on the question of dismissal shall be reported to both the
152 congregation and to the Presbytery. Following that vote, unless the session votes to seek dismissal, it shall
153 complete this Procedure by entering into a season of reconciliation and prayer in concert with the
154 Presbytery. The Presbytery will not agree to reinitiate the Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal
155 Procedure with the session for a period of at least three years following the advisory vote. A Reconciliation
156 Team will be named, ordinarily including the members of the Discernment Team. This team shall create
157 and conduct a process for continuation/transformation of fellowship and reaffirmation of the Presbytery-
158 congregational relationship. In addition, it is appropriate for the Reconciliation Team to consult with the
159 Session regarding reconciliation within the congregation. Among the tasks of the Reconciliation Team are:
160 1. Consulting with the Session as it prepares and adopts a covenant of reaffirmation articulating the
161 relationship between the congregation, Presbytery and the PC (U.S.A.).
162 2. Consulting with the Session in fostering reconciliation and healing between congregational leaders
163 and members, between congregational factions that may have surfaced or been created, and between
164 the whole congregation and the Presbytery.
165 3. Conducting a public service of worship and reaffirmation to shared fellowship and ministry, with
166 substantive participation from the Presbytery and the congregation.
167 4. Sharing of story and testimony from members of the Reconciliation Team and congregation at the
168 congregational and Presbytery level.
169 5. Blessing and commissioning of any congregants who leave the local congregation (to the extent
170 possible), in the hope of maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace. (Ephesians 4:3)
171 PROCEDURE FOR SEEKING DISMISSAL
172 Upon completion of the discernment process, the Session may vote on whether to arrange for an assembly
173 of the congregation for the purpose of advising the Session regarding dismissal from the PC(U.S.A.) to
174 another Reformed body. This assembly shall be moderated by the pastor or his/her designee. At least 30%
175 of the membership must be in attendance. The most recent edition of Robert's Rules of Order will apply
176 for the purpose of this assembly. An advisory vote shall be taken on the motion to request dismissal from
177 the PC(U.S.A.) to a particular Reformed Body.
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178 The Discernment Team will work with the Session to ensure the proper and fair implementation of the
179 procedure outlined below:
180 1. The Session shall set a date for the advisory vote of the congregation. Advance notice of the date for
181 the advisory vote shall be by written letter to each member on the active roll of the congregation
182 who is eligible to vote, as well as by three Sunday worship announcements. The letter shall be
183 mailed at least thirty (30) days in advance of the date of the advisory vote and shall include:
184 a a proposed motion from the Session requesting dismissal by the Presbytery to a particular
185 Reformed body.
186 b. a written statement from the Discernment Team majority and minority (if applicable).
187 c. a written statement from the Financial Analysis Consultation Team (see item #7 below).
188 Public announcements of the advisory vote shall be made at all worship services between the date
189 of the first notice and the actual date of the vote. Representatives of the Presbytery (which may
190 include members of the Discernment Team, General Council, Stated Clerk of the Presbytery,
191 General Presbyter, and Associate General Presbyters) shall also be invited to the meeting, with the
192 right to address the body gathered.
193 2. Meetings After a Call for a Congregation Advisory Vote: The Discernment Team shall meet with
194 the Session to ensure proper, fair and balanced communications during the period between the call
195 for a congregational vote and the vote. Whenever possible, members of the Discernment Team
196 should attend any town hall meetings or other congregational gatherings that take place during the
197 period leading up to the congregational vote. The Discernment Team shall report to the Presbytery
198 regarding the fairness of communications during this period.
199 3. Members eligible to cast an advisory vote shall be those listed on the roll of Active members of the
200 church (G-1.0402) as of the date of the letter setting the date of the advisory vote. Members must be
201 present to vote. The quorum for the advisory vote shall be the designated quorum stated in the
202 congregational bylaws or that which was adopted at the assembly of the congregation specified
203 above (lines 79-80), whichever is higher.
204 4. All members present, as well as the representatives of Presbytery, shall have the right to speak.
205 5. When the discussion is concluded, the advisory vote shall be taken by written ballot. In order for
206 the proposal to pass, at least two-thirds of ballots cast must approve the proposed motion from
207 Session.
208 6. After the advisory vote is taken, the Session may submit a request for dismissal to the Presbytery,
209 which must include the results of the advisory vote of the congregation.
210 7. Prior to a desired dismissal, the Session shall propose a legally binding contract on behalf of the
211 congregation regarding financial settlement. This contract shall be negotiated with Session
212 representatives by a Negotiation Team appointed by the General Council and in consultation with
213 the Financial Analysis Consultation Team. The Negotiation Team will recommend a contract to the
214 Session which takes into consideration the report of the FACT, and which establishes a fair
215 financial settlement of the congregation's responsibilities under the provisions of G-4.0203. This
216 contract shall include payments reflected in this provision as well as those specified in item 8
217 below. The agreed upon settlement may be payable as a lump sum or paid in quarterly payments
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218 over five (5) years. The first (or lump sum) payment shall be due upon the signing of all legal
219 documents, which shall occur as soon as practical if the Presbytery votes to approve dismissal.
220 8. The method, interest, timing, and securing of all the above financial settlements shall be negotiated.
221 9. The contract shall include at least the congregation's contribution to the Presbytery the greater of:
222 the per member share of the current Presbytery budget' or the average of the congregation's past
223 three years' Presbytery contributions. These contributions shall be calculated on a declining scale
224 over a five year period according to the following schedule:
225 Year one — 100%
226 Year two — 80%
227 Year three — 60%
228 Year four — 40%
229 Year five — 20%
230 Year six and beyond — 0%
231 10. The Presbytery, at its next stated meeting, shall vote on the proposed dismissal of the congregation,
232 predicated on the contract noted above. Such dismissal, if approved, shall be pending execution of
233 the contract.
234 11. A congregation that is approved for dismissal may take its name with it.
235 12, If any members express a desire to start a PC (U.S.A.) congregation, the Presbytery's committee
236 responsible for evangelism and church growth shall determine if the leadership, mission, and
237 resources exist to organize a new worshiping community. It shall be the responsibility of the
238 Presbytery of New Covenant to support, encourage and provide resources for the establishment of a
239 new church by a loyal minority.
240 13, A congregation being dismissed will be required to transfer the memberships of all those on the roll
241 who request transfer to another congregation. The Session minutes and church register become the
242 property of the Presbytery of New Covenant and will be delivered prior to all legal documents being
243 signed.
244 14, When the Presbytery has approved the request for dismissal, all legal documents have been signed
245 and payment(s) made, the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery of New Covenant shall issue a letter of
246 dismissal to the Reformed Body which is prepared to receive the congregation.
247 15. In the event that any congregation's request for dismissal is approved under the terms of this
248 Procedure, the Presbytery shall hold, in conjunction with the congregation, a final worship service
249 of commissioning, to celebrate our common life in Jesus Christ and to pray for the effectiveness and
250 well-being of both the congregation and the Presbytery. Those departing the Presbyterian Church
251 (U.S.A.) will be commissioned by the Presbytery to further their work for the kingdom as they go
252 forward in ministry. The service will be jointly planned by representatives of the Presbytery of
253 New Covenant appointed by the Moderator and the Session, and all congregations of the Presbytery
254 of New Covenant shall be invited.
For example, in 2015 the per member share of the Presbytery budget is $40.77.
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255 16. A congregation being dismissed shall be required to remove the Presbytery of New Covenant from
256 any outstanding loan guarantees and to pay off any loans outstanding to any entity of the
257 Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
258 17. A congregation being dismissed will be required to work with the Presbyterian Board of Pensions to
259 determine the effective date of the dismissal.
260 18. There are some practical considerations to be addressed, should a congregation be approved for
261 dismissal. These are listed for information, and are not all-inclusive or binding for the purposes of
262 this Procedure:
263 a) The status of Teaching Elders, Commissioned Ruling Elders and members in the ordination
264 process
265 b) The status of any insurance policies held by the congregation .
266 c) The corporate status of the congregation shall be revised to reflect its dismissal.
267 d) The Presbytery agrees to execute all documents necessary to effectuate the transfer of all assets
268 or property pursuant to this procedure.
269 e) Upon dismissal to another Reformed body, the congregation so dismissed shall be considered
270 dissolved as a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
271 Approval and Amendment of this Procedure
272 This Procedure shall be effective after a preliminary reading/discussion of the Procedure at a Presbytery
273 meeting and ratification by a majority of those voting at a subsequent Presbytery meeting. Amendments to
274 the Procedure are in order at the Presbytery meeting where the vote takes place.
275 Subsequent to the adoption of this Procedure, it may only be amended or removed by the same procedure
276 stated above: after a preliminary reading/discussion of the Procedure at a Presbytery meeting and
277 ratification by a majority of those voting at a subsequent Presbytery meeting.
278 The Procedure in effect on the date of the covenant agreement between the Session and the Presbytery shall
279 remain in effect throughout the process for that particular congregation even if the Procedure is amended or
280 removed by the Presbytery during the process.
281
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282 THE PRESBYTERY OF NEW COVENANT
283 ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURE
284 FOR A CHURCH CONSIDERING OR SEEKING DISMISSAL
285 FROM THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A.)
286 The Presbytery of New Covenant has established a Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure for
287 member churches considering dismissal from the denomination and strongly encourages pastors, Sessions
288 and congregations to engage in the process outlined in that Procedure.
289 Recognizing that there may be churches that either choose to seek dismissal from the PC (U.S.A.) without
290 covenanting to abide by the Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure or that may choose to
291 abandon that process before completing it while continuing to seek dismissal from the denomination, the
292 Presbytery establishes this Alternative Procedure for Churches Seeking Dismissal from the PC (U.S.A.),
293 The intent of this Alternative Procedure is to provide guidelines for a gracious, decent, and orderly
294 interaction between the Presbytery and churches seeking dismissal outside of the process defined in the
295 Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure,
296 ALTERNATIVE PROCESS
297 When the Presbytery is notified that a church has taken steps to request dismissal from the PC (U.S.A.)
298 without complying with the Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure or that a church that was
299 proceeding under the Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure fails to complete it but is requesting
300 dismissal, then the Presbytery will respond by following these guidelines.
301 A. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSION
302 1. Pursuant to G-3.0109b(5), the Moderator of Presbytery shall nominate and the Presbytery shall elect, an
303 Administrative Commission ("AC"). The primary task of the AC is to "attempt to inquire into and settle
304 the difficulties" of the church in question. The authority of the AC will be specifically defined for the
305 situation. Powers of the AC may include authorization for the AC to assume jurisdiction in whole or in
306 part over the affairs of the church with the power to act in place of the Session.
307 2. The Stated Clerk of the Presbytery will conduct a training session for members of the AC to apprise
308 them of the powers that are delegated to the AC, and the facts and circumstances that prompted the
309 formation of the AC.
310 3. Powers granted to the AC by the Presbytery may include the authority for the AC:
311 a. to determine whether a schism exists within the congregation (see Book of Order 0-4.0207).
312 b. If schism exists, to determine if one of the factions of the church represents the true church
313 within the PC (U.S.A.) (see Book of Order G-4.0207).
314 c. to make recommendations to the Presbytery to dissolve pastoral relationships or to place
315 pastors on administrative leave. When requisite authority is given by the Presbytery, the AC may
316 dissolve pastoral relationships (see Book of Order, G-3.0109b).
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317 d. to request records of the Session (see Book of Order, G-3.0108b), "If a higher governing body
318 learns at any time of any irregularity or delinquency by a lower governing body, it may require the
319 governing body to produce any records and take appropriate action."
320 e. to examine and copy whatever records of the church that may be relevant (e.g., how money is
321 held, title to property, title policies, surveys, insurance documents, financial statements and records,
322 budgets, tax returns, bank and account statements, mortgages or other loan documents, corporate
323 articles, bylaws, and charters—especially changes in any of these).
324 1. to assume original jurisdiction (in whole or in part) in any case in which it determines that the
325 Session is unable or unwilling to manage wisely the affairs of its church (see Book of Order G-3.02
326 and G-3.0201).
327 g. to freeze the assets of the church and approve expenditures.
328 h. to secure the building, grounds and other Property of the church for the use and benefit of the
329 PC (U.S.A.).
330 1. to determine if and when an assembly of the congregation is appropriate for the purpose of
331 voting to seek dismissal from the PC (U.S.A.).
332 j. to call that assembly of the congregation, and provide the Moderator and Clerk for that
333 assembly and to report results of the congregational vote to the Presbytery;
334 k. to authorize oversight of the church, its ministry and its property by a group within the
335 congregation that has been identified as "the true church within the PC (U.S.A.)" (G-4.0207).
336 1. to propose to the Presbytery any recommendation for the disposition of the property held by or
337 for the church, and the assumption of the liabilities of the church, if there is no group within the
338 congregation that has been identified as the true church within the PC (U.S.A.), or if such group cannot
339 or does not assume responsibility for the church, or its property or liabilities.
340 m. to consider the conformity with the PC (U.S.A.) (in matters of doctrines and order) of the
341 proposed receiving body or denomination to which a congregation has, or may, request dismissal, and
342 to propose to the Presbytery any recommendation regarding same for the Presbytery's consideration
343 and action.
344 n. to fulfill any other responsibilities as assigned by the Presbytery, or as may be necessary or
345 appropriate in connection therewith or in connection with those set forth above,
346 B. ASSEMBLY OF THE CONGREGATION
347 1. The AC shall keep the Presbytery informed of significant actions taken and shall make recommendations
348 directly to the Presbytery for all actions that require the Presbytery's approval.
349 2. One of the powers of the AC is to determine when or if an assembly of the congregation is appropriate
350 for the purpose of advising the Presbytery whether the congregation wishes to seek dismissal from the
351 PC (U.S.A.) to another Reformed denomination. Prior to any such advisory vote, the leadership of the
352 church shall furnish to the AC written verification that they will receive the church upon dismissal from
353 the PC (U.S.A.). The Presbytery or AC may request any other written information about that
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354 denomination, such as doctrine, governance and permanence. The call for an assembly of the
355 congregation shall be in accordance with the notice and quorum requirements of that congregation.
356 3. A request for dismissal shall be by two-thirds advisory vote of the active membership of the
357 congregation as recorded in the Annual Statistical Report for the immediately preceding year. By such
358 vote the congregation must adopt a resolution requesting that the Presbytery dismiss the church to a
359 specified Reformed denomination that is in correspondence with the General Assembly of the PC
360 (U.S.A.) and is a member of ecumenical bodies in which the PC (U.S.A.) is also a member. The
361 resolution shall specify whether dismissal is sought with all or part the church's property or without the
362 church's property. If dismissal is sought with part of the property then the resolution shall specify the
363 property to be retained.
364 C. DISPOSITION OF CHURCH PROPERTY
365 I. Disposition of the property of the church shall be resolved in accordance with the provisions of G-
366 4.0207 (Property of Congregation in Schism) and G-4.0208 (Exceptions) of the Book of Order,
367 2. A minority of the church congregation may choose to elect new church leadership and assume
368 responsibility of the property subject to the jurisdiction of the AC or sell the property to the majority
369 with the approval of the Presbytery (if required).
370 If the minority does not or cannot assume responsibility for the property within a reasonable period of
371 time (as determined by the AC), then the AC may recommend that the Presbytery dismiss or dissolve the
372 congregation, or dispose of the property, or take other appropriate action.
373 3. The AC may consider the following options for the disposition of the church property if there is no
374 faction of the congregation that can or does assume responsibility for the church property as a continuing
375 congregation of the PC (U.S.A.):
376 a. Sell, transfer, lease or otherwise dispose of the property to a third party.
377 b. Retain the property for a new church development, or hold, use and apply the property for
378 another mission of the Presbytery.
379 c. Sell, lease or transfer the property to the membership of the dismissed congregation upon terms
380 acceptable to the Presbytery on condition that the church is dismissed to another Reformed
381 denomination.
382
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383 Covenant Agreement
384 In order to: promote the ongoing faithfulness of our members in the work of the Mission of God through
385 Jesus Christ exercise "mutual forbearance"; treat others with respect regardless of theological and
386 ecclesiological differences; and work for fairness to all parties in our decisions, therefore, the General
387 Council of the Presbytery of New Covenant and the congregation of the
388 Church of
389 ,Texas, covenant to follow the Gracious Reconciliation
390 and Dismissal Procedure and abide by all its terms.
391
392 Date
393
394 Pastor/Moderator of Session Moderator, General Council, Presbytery of New Covenant
395
396 Clerk of Session Stated Clerk, Presbytery of New Covenant
07/18/2015
Exhibit E
CAUSE NO.2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHIJRCK OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff, §
v.
IVIISSIONPRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendants
V% rn (..) 0EIZr
-V ;-1 En
n3c,
ED RONDURANT, PAULA -4 20
BONDURANT, BOB WISE, ANNA WISE,
I' •
miRIAM 0 GLESBEE ELLISON, AND f.r1
DON DRUMMOND
Intervenors, 73" JUDICIAL DISTRICT
DEFENDANT'S VERIFIED ORIGINAL COUNTERCLAIM,
INTERVENORS' VERIFIED- ORIGINAL PETITION IN INTERVENTION, AND
DEFENDANT'S-AND INTERVENORS" APPLICATION FOR.
TEMPORARY AND PERMANENT INJUNCTION
TO THE 110NORABLE IODGE. OF SAID COM.:
Counter-Plaintiff Mission Presbytery. ("Icilission') files its Verified Origin[
Counterclaim, and Intervenors Ed 33onduran‘ Paula. Bondurant, Bob Wise, Anna Wise, Miriam
Oglesbee Ellison, and Doh Drummond ("Intervenor?) Ede this Verified Original Petition in
Intervention under Texas Rules of Civil Probedure 60 and 61 and state as follows:
L
PARTIES
1, Counter-Plaintiff Mission is a. non-profit corporation organfred under the laws of
the State of Texas.
2. Counter-Defendant, First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio ("FPC") is a non-
profit corporation organized under the laws of the state of Texas and located in San Antonio,
Texas. FPC has previously appeared in this lawsuit.
3. Intervenors Ed Bondurant, Paula Bondurant, Bob Wise, Anna Wise, Miriam
Oglesbee Ellison, and Don Drummond are residents of San Antonio, Texas, and members of
and/or contributors to FPC.
II.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
4. This Court has subject matter jurisdiction of this action because the amount in
controversy exceeds the minimal jurisdiction limits of this Court, and the subject matter is
authorized by Chapter 37 of the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code.
5. Venue is proper in Bexar County under Section 15.002 of the Civil Practice and
Remedies Code because the FPC's principal place of business is located in Bexar County and all
or a substantial part of the occurrence giving rise to this litigation occurred in Bexar County.
III.
STATEMENT OF FACTS
6. Counter-Defendant FPC initiated this lawsuit against Mission on May 12, 2015 by
filing Plaintiff's Verified Original Petition for Declaratory Judgment and Application for
Temporary Restraining Order and Temporary and Permanent Injunction (hereinafter "FPC's
Original Petition").
7. Counter-Defendant FPC is a local congregation of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) ("PC(USA)"). Exh. B (W. Poe Affidavit) ¶ 2. FPC formally joined PC(USA), the
national denomination, in 1983. FPC's Original Petition1 10. However, for the 100 years prior
2
to 1983, FPC was a member of Presbyterian Church in the United States ("PCUS"), a legal
predecessor to the national denomination. Id. II 8-9.
8. All members of the national denomination agree to be subject to PC(USA) rules
and regulations. Exh. B ¶ 2. PC(USA)'s rules and regulations are based on the PC(USA)
Constitution, which is divided into two parts: (1) the Book of Confessions and (2) the Book of
Order. Id. For any given church to be subject to the PC(USA) Constitution, the individual
church must be a member of the national denomination. Id. That is, all member churches of
PC(USA) are subject to the Constitution, and no non-member churches are subject to the
Constitution. Id.
9. FPC holds title to approximately eighteen parcels of real property, identified in
Exhibit 1 to FPC's Original Petition (collectively referred to hereinafter as "FPC's Real Estate").
FPC's Original Petition ¶ 80. Further, FPC also owns personal property associated with the
management and operation of the church, including but not limited to furniture, electronic
equipment, vehicles, maintenance supplies, fixtures, telephone equipment, and appliances
(collectively hereinafter referred to as "FPC's Other Property"). By its Original Petition, FPC
has indicated a clear intent to leave PC(USA) imminently without sufficient regard to
PC(USA)'s interest in FPC's Real Estate and Other Property. Exh. B ¶ 6; also see, e.g., FPC's
Original Petitiont136 (claiming FPC holds its property unencumbered by any trust for the use
and benefit of PC(USA)), 81 (seeking to quiet title to FPC's Real Estate), 85 (request for
permanent injunction from PC(USA) interfering with FPC property).
10. Mission is a district administrative unit of PC(USA). Exh. B ¶ 2. Mission is
responsible for ensuring that local congregations adhere to the PC(USA) Constitution. FPC
Original Petition ¶ 11. Mission is also charged with representing the interests of its member
3
congregations and individual church members, which includes the members of FPC as a
PC(USA) church. Exh. B ¶ 3.
11. Intervenors are all members and/or regular attendees of FPC who have
contributed financially to the church over the past several years. See Exh. C (E. Bondurant
Affidavit); Exh. D (P. Bondurant Affidavit); Exit E (B. Wise Affidavit); Exh. F (A. Wise
Affidavit); Exh. G (Ai Ellison Affidavit); Exh. H (D. Drummond Affidavit).
12. FPC's Articles of Incorporation dated November 18, 1988 state that FPC is a non-
profit corporation and include the following language under the section entitled "PURPOSES":
The purposes for which the corporation is formed is in the support of
public worship and the worship of the Almighty God; instruction and
education according to the Holy Bible, the Book of Confessions and the
Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), or any successor;
service to others; and such other religious, benevolent, charitable, and
educational activities as may be appropriate. Incidental thereto, such
corporation shall have authority to do any and all things necessary or
proper to the operation of a church, as may be permitted by the
Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA), or any successors, and
permitted under the laws of the United States and the State of Texas.
Exh. A (FPC Articles of Incorporation) at 1 (emphasis added). Under the section entitled
"CONDUCT OF BUSINESS," FPC's articles of incorporation state:
All business of the corporation shall be conducted and transacted
commensurate with the laws of the United States and the State of Texas
and according to the rules and regulations of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A), or its successor, as prescribed by the General Assembly, by the
Synod, and by the Presbytery to which the corporation belongs, according
to the principles and doctrines of such demonination (sic] as enunciated
in its Book of Confessions and Book of Order.
Id. at 4 (emphasis added).
13. In early 2015, FPC amended their articles of incorporation to remove a substantial
portion of the language above. FPC's Original Petition ¶¶ 30-31. However, at all times
between 1988 and the amendment, FPC's corporate purpose was expressly stated to be that as
4
listed in the above paragraph. Exh. A at 1. Further, at all prior times, as admitted in FPC's
Petition, FPC was a member church of either PC(USA) or denominations that were legal
predecessors of PC(USA) (i.e. PCUS that reunited and merged into PC(USA) in 1983), and held
itself out to the public as such. FPC's Original Petition In 8-9.
14. While FPC has been a member congregation of PC(USA), PC(USA) and Mission
have provided substantial financial benefits to FPC. These financial benefits include, but are not
limited to:
(a) FPC using PC(USA)'s name, affiliation, and registered mark to
recruit members, donors and stag including, for example: FPC's
newsletters and website have regularly used the PC(USA) seal, and
all of FPC's pastors since 1983 have been hired through Mission
via the Presbyterian system overseen by Mission's Committee on
Ministry, including the time, effort, and periodic reimbursement of
various members of that committee; and
(b) FPC and its pastors participating in the Board of Pensions (the
retirement and medical plan of the PC(USA), overseen and
administered by PC(USA) personnel who are paid by the
PC(USA)) and using those benefits to attract employees.
Exh. B I 4 (collectively hereinafter referred to as "Mission's Donations to FPC"). All of
Mission's Donations to FPC were made for the purpose of PC(USA). Id. ¶ 5.
15. While FPC has been a member congregation of PC(USA), Intervenors have each
contributed to FPC as follows:
(a) Intervenor Ed Bondurant (with his spouse, Paula Bondurant)
donated approximately $94,247.48 to FPC. Exh. C ¶ 2.
(b) Intervenor Paula Bondurant (with her spouse, Ed Bondurant)
donated approximately $94,247.48 to FPC. Exh. D ¶ 2.
(c) Intervenor Bob Wise (with his spouse Anna Wise) donated
approximately $20,200.00 to FPC. Exh. E ¶ 3.
(d) Intervenor Anna Wise (with her spouse Bob Wise) donated
approximately $20,200.00 to FPC. Exh. F ¶ 3.
5
(e) Intervenor Miriam Oglesbee Ellison donated approximately
$29,000.00 to FPC. Exh. G ¶ 3.
(0 Intervenor Don Drummond donated approximately $137,000.00 to
FPC. Exh. H I 3.
(collectively hereinafter referred to as "Intervenors' Donations to FPC"). All of Intervenors'
Donations to FPC were made for the purpose of benefitting PC(USA). Exh. C ¶ 2; Exh. D ¶ 2;
Exh. E ¶ 3; Exh. F ¶ 3; Exh. G 3; Exh. H 3.
16. Upon information and belief, FPC also solicited and received donations from a
substantial portion of its congregation members while FPC has been a member of PC(USA).
Further, upon information and belief, most, if not all, of the donations did not specify any
limitation on the purpose of their charitable donation other than the fact that was it intended to be
donated to FPC. At all times relevant to the donations referenced in this paragraph, FPC was a
member of PC(USA) and/or FPC's corporate purpose was for "instruction and education
according to the Holy Bible, the Book of Confessions and the Book of Order of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.)," and that incidental to such purpose, FPC only had authority to act as permitted
by law and "by the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)." Exh. A at 1.
17. Upon information and belief, the donations identified in Paragraphs 14 through 16
above have become intermingled and a part of FPC's Real Estate and Other Property. This has
happened because the donations have been made over such a long period of time and, upon
information and belief, constitute a substantial majority of FPC's annual income (i.e. every
donation made between at least 1983 and present). Funds collected by FPC have, upon
information and belief, been used by FPC to acquire, operate, maintain, and improve FPC's Real
Estate and Other Property. Indeed, this intermingling of donated funds is exactly why FPC seeks
a suit to quiet title with this Court. FPC's Original Petition 1111 80-81. Thus, a significant
6
amount of donations have been used to either (1) improve, (2) develop, or (3) maintain FPC's
Real Estate and/or purchase and maintain FPC's Other Property.
IV.
CAUSES OF ACTION
A. DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
18. Paragraphs 1 through 17 are incorporated herein by reference.
19. Mission's and Intervenors' Donations to FPC are subject to a constructive
charitable trust that restricts use of such funds for any purpose other than for PC(USA).
20. A constructive trust is an equitable remedy created by the courts to prevent unjust
enrichment. Troxel v. Bishop, 201 S.W.3d 290, 297 (Tex. App.—Dallas 2006, no pet.).
Constructive trusts are a very broad means of redressing wrong in keeping with the basic
principles of equity and justice. Meadows v. Bierschwale, 516 S.W.2d 125, 131 (Tex. 1974).
"[T]here is no unyielding formula to which a court of equity is bound in decreeing a constructive
trust, since the equity of the transaction will shape the measure of relief granted." Id.
21. To obtain a constructive trust, the proponent must prove: (1) breach of a special
trust, fiduciary relationship, or actual fraud; (2) unjust enrichment of the wrongdoer; and (3)
tracing to an identifiable res. Id.
22. Under Texas law, "property transferred unconditionally to a non-profit
corporation, whose purpose is established or determined to be a public charity or educational
facility, is nevertheless subject to implicit charitable or educational limitations defined by the
donee's organizational propose." Blocker v. State, 718 S.W.2d 409, 415 (Tex. App.—Houston
[1st Dist.] 1986), writ refused n.r.e. (Jan. 21, 1987) (emphasis added). Where a donor does not
expressly limit a donation at the time of transfer, the transferred property is deemed a gift
to the charitable purposes and objects of the corporation. Id. "Because a charitable
7
corporation is organized for the benefit of the public, and not for private profit or its own benefit,
the public has a beneficial interest in all the property of a public benefit, non-profit corporation?
Id. "Such a corporation has legal title to the property but may use it only in furtherance of its
charitable purposes." Id. (emphasis added).
23. FPC expressly stated in its Articles of Incorporation that its non-profit corporate
purpose was "instruction and education according to the Holy Bible, the Book of Confessions
and the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)," and that incidental to such purpose,
FPC only had authority to act as permitted by law and "by the Constitution of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.)." Exh. A at 1. Further, even when FPC's Articles of Incorporation did not
expressly state the above purpose, FPC was nonetheless subject to the PC(USA) Book of Order
because FPC was a member congregation of PC(USA). See FPC's Original Petition ¶ 10. All
member congregations of PC(USA) are subject to the Book of Order and a congregation is not
permitted to be a member of PC(USA) unless the congregation agrees to be governed by the
PC(USA) Constitution. Exh. B ¶ 2. Therefore, under the Blocker standard, every donation that
FPC received while it was a member of PC(USA) is subject to a constructive charitable trust for
the purpose of PC(USA) unless the donation at issue expressly stated that it was for another
purpose or denomination at the time the donation was made. Thus, Mission's and Intervenors'
Donations to FPC are subject to a constructive charitable trust that limits the use of said funds to
use for the purpose of PC(USA).
24. Further, all other donations made to FPC while FPC was a member of PC(USA)
are subject to the same constructive charitable trust limitation. This limitation automatically
applies to all other donations unless a specific donation, at the time it was made, expressly stated
that it was for a denomination or purpose other than PC(USA). Absent evidence that a given
8
donation expressly stated that it was for a denomination or purpose other than PC(USA), the use
of the donation must be subject to a constructive charitable trust for the purpose of PC(USA).
See Blocker, 718 S.W.2d at 415.
25. As indicated by filing this lawsuit, FPC has expressed an intention to alter the
already-established charitable purpose of the donated funds. Specifically, FPC intends to use the
donated funds at issue for a denomination other than PC(USA). Exh. B ¶ 6. To allow FPC to
retrospectively alter the purpose of the donations discussed above would constitute unjust
enrichment in favor of whatever denomination FPC is attempting to join. The funds that FPC
collected while a PC(USA) member congregation are all irrevocably subject to a limitation for
that particular charitable purpose.
26. Because FPC's expressly stated corporate purpose is to further the instruction and
education according to the Book of Order of the PC(USA), subject to the Constitution of the
PC(USA), Mission and Intervenors request that this Court issue a declaratory judgment that a
constructive charitable trust limits the use of Mission's and Intervenors' Donations to FPC to
uses for the purpose of PC(USA), and not for the purpose of any other denomination.
27. Further, for the reasons stated above, Mission and Intervenors request that this
Court issue a declaratory judgment that the same constructive charitable trust limits the use of all
other donations to FPC made while FPC was a member of PC(USA) to uses for the purpose of
PC(USA), and not for the purpose of any other denomination.
28. Finally, Mission and Intervenors request that this Court issue a declaratory
judgment that all FPC Real Estate and Other Property are also subject to a constructive charitable
trust for the purpose of PC(USA), and not for the purpose of any other denomination, because
9
such a substantial amount of donations taken in by FPC has been invested and intermingled with
FPC's Real Estate and Other Property.
B. TEMPORARY INJUNCTION
29. Paragraphs 1 through 28 are incorporated herein by reference.
30. Mission and Intervenors request that this Court issue a temporary injunction that
prohibits FPC from using any funds received via the donations identified in Paragraphs 14
through 16 for a purpose of a denomination that is not PC(USA).
31. Under Texas law, a party is entitled to a temporary injunction to preserve the
status quo of the subject matter of this suit pending a judicial resolution of the merits. Butnaru v.
Ford Motor Co., 84 S.W.3d 198, 204 (Tex. 2002). A temporary injunction is an extraordinary
remedy and does not issue as a matter of right. Id. "To obtain a temporary injunction, the
applicant must plead and prove three specific elements: (1) a cause of action against the
defendant; (2) a probable right to the relief sought; and (3) a probable, imminent, and irreparable
injury in the interim." Id. "An injury is irreparable if the injured party cannot be adequately
compensated in damages or if the damages cannot be measured by any certain pecuniary
standard." Id.
32. First, Mission and Intervenors have a cause of action against FPC for the
equitable creation of a constructive charitable trust for the benefit of PC(USA). Mission and
Intervenors have shown that they each, along with other unnamed congregation supporters, made
Donations to FPC over the past several decades. See Exh. B ¶ 4; Exh. C ¶ 2; Exh. D 112; Exh.
E ¶ 3; Exh. F 1 3; Exh. G ¶ 3; Exh. H ¶ 3. Further, most, if not all, of the donations were not
made under an express limitation that they were for the purpose of any denomination other than
PC(USA). Id. As a default rule, because those donations were to a charitable organization (FPC,
10
a non-profit religious corporation), the donated funds are subject to a constructive charitable trust
that limits their use to FPC's stated corporate purpose (for the purpose of PC(USA)). See
Blocker, 718 S.W.2d at 415. To allow FPC to retrospectively alter the purpose of Mission's,
Intervenors', and other congregation members' donations (the "identifiable res" element) would
constitute unjust enrichment.
33. The same constructive charitable trust must also be applied to FPC's Real Estate
and Other Property because such a substantial amount of FPC's revenue (i.e. all donations FPC
received for decades) are subject to the trust. That revenue has been reinvested in FPC's Real
Estate and Other Property over the past several decades, and to allow FPC to use that funding for
any denomination other than PC(USA) would constitute unjust enrichment.
34. By the filing of this lawsuit, FPC has affirmatively demonstrated that it has an
imminent intention to begin using all of its funds and property in a manner that is not for the
benefit of PC(USA). See, e.g., FPC's Original Petition Tir 36, 81, and 85. FPC's intentions are
also demonstrated by the fact that it scrubbed its Articles of Incorporation earlier this year in an
attempt to mask its corporate purpose for the past three decades. See Id. 11¶ 30-31. Further,
statements made by and on behalf of FPC officers to representatives of Mission have stated a
clear intent on the part of FPC leadership to leave the denomination — taking property with them
— as soon as practicable. Exh. B 116. Absent this Court's intervention, FPC will attempt to use
funds subject to a constructive charitable trust for a purpose other than that originally determined
at the time of donation. Mission and Intervenors are thus forced to seek injunctive relief with
this Court to protect their interests in the funds subject to the constructive charitable trust
discussed above.
11
35. Mission and Intervenors are also entitled to a temporary injunction because they
have no adequate remedy on appeal if FPC does spend or abscond with funds and/or property
subject to the constructive charitable trust. Absent investigation in this lawsuit, Mission and
Intervenors have no ability to determine the total scope of all donations that may be subject to
the constructive charitable trust. Further, it may be close to impossible to trace the end use of
donations dating back several decades, so any sale of FPC's Real Estate could result in an
unidentifiable amount of limited-use fimds being subject to an unauthorized purpose. Finally,
Mission and Intervenors should not be forced to calculate an exact amount of the identifiable res
at issue because it is not their burden to do so. See Blocker, 718 S.W.2d at 415 (as a default rule,
donations are subject to the nonprofit's corporate purpose). Allowing FPC to use its finds, Real
Estate, and Other Property for a denomination other than PC(USA) would force Mission and
Intervenors to sue for damages that Mission and Intervenors have no burden to prove. Thus
Mission and Intervenors have no adequate remedy on appeal if FPC violates the constructive
charitable trust.
36. Because (i) FPC has shown an imminent intent to use finds collected for the
purpose of PC(USA) for denomination other than PC(USA) and (ii) Mission and Intervenors
may have no ability to seek an accurate amount of damages as a result of the breached
constructive charitable trust, Mission and Intervenors request that this Court grant a temporary
injunction restricting FPC's use of (i) donated funds, (ii) FPC's Real Estate, and (iii) FPC's
Other Property for the purpose of PC(USA), and not for the purpose of any other denomination.
12
C. PERMANENT INJUNCTION
37. Paragraphs 1 through 36 are incorporated herein by reference.
38. For the reasons stated above, Mission and Intervenors ask that this Court, after a
trial on the merits, grant a permanent injunction that prohibits FPC from using any funds
received via the donations identified in Paragraphs 14 through 16 for a purpose that is not for the
benefit of PC(USA), including the purpose of a different denomination.
V.
ATTORNEY'S FEES
39. Mission and Intervenors are represented by an attorney in this matter, and are
entitled to recover • reasonable and necessary attorney fees under Texas Civil Practice &
Remedies Code Section 37.009.
VI.
NOTICE TO THE TEXAS ATTORNEY GENERAL
40. Pursuant to Texas Property Code Section 123.003, Mission and Intervenors are
providing a copy of this Counterclaim and Petition in Intervention to the Texas Attorney General
because it is a proceeding involving a charitable trust.
VII.
PRAYER FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, PREMISES CONSIDERED, Mission and Intervenors ask this Court
grant the following relief their favor:
a. A declaration that Mission's and Intervenors' Donations to FPC are
subject to a constructive charitable trust and that all such funds may only
be used for the charitable purpose of PC(USA);
b. A declaration that all donations or gifts to FPC while FPC has been a
member of PC(USA) are subject to a constructive charitable trust and that
all such funds may only be used for the purpose of PC(USA);
c. A declaration that FPC's Real Estate and Other Property are encumbered
by a constructive charitable trust for the purpose of PC(USA);
13
d. A Temporary Injunction enjoining FPC from using any donation subject to
the constructive charitable trust described above for any denomination
other than PC(USA);
e. A Permanent Injunction enjoining FPC from using any donation subject to
the constructive charitable trust described above for any denomination
Other than PC(USA)
f. A Temporary Injunction ordering that FPC is enjoined from using FPC's
Real Estate and Other Property for any denomination other than PC(USA);
g• A Permanent Injunction ordering that FPC is enjoined from using FPC's
Real Estate and Other Property for any denomination other than PC(USA);
h. Court costs;
Attorney fees as are reasonable and necessary; and
All other relief to which Mission and/or Intervenors are entitled.
Respectfully submitted,
LLOYD GOSSELINK
ROCHELLE & TOWNSEND, P.C.
816 Congress Avenue, Suite 1900
Austin, Texas 78701
Telephone: (512) 322-5800
Facsimile: (512)472-0532
By:
JOSE E. de la PUENTE
State Bar. No. 00793605
idelafuente@lglawfirm.com
TYLER T. O'HALLORAN
State Bar No. 24083590
tohal loraraiglawfirm.com
14
DAVIDSON TROILO REAM & GARZA
A Professional Corporation
7550 IH-10 West, Suite 800
San Antonio, Texas 78229-5815
Telephone: (210) 349-6484
Facsimile: (210) 349-0041
Keith Kendall
State Bar No. 11263250
kkendall®dtrglaw.com
ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANT
MISSION PRESBYTERY AND
INTERVENORS
15
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that a true and correct copy of the foregoing document has been
forwarded to the following attorneys via the method indicated below on this 30th day of July,
2015:
David B. West
dwestadvIcema.com
Larissa Sanchez Fields
lfteldsadvkezna.com
DYKEMA COX SMITH
112 East Pecan Street, Suite 1800
San Antonio, Texas 7&205
Via E-Service & Email
Kent C. Krause
kkrauseeedklawfirm.com
CRADDOCK DAVIS & KRAUSE, LLP
3100 Monticello Avenue, Suite 550
Dallas, Texas 75205
Via E-Service & Email
Office of the Attorney General Ken Paxton
Charitable Trusts Section
Financial and Tax Litigation Division
P.O. Box 12548
Austin, Texas 78711-2548
Via CMRRR
0 E. de la FUENTE
16
EXHIBIT A
r1 : U 9 3 11 I .1 2
rlLw
i n Ina 0184o tal the
Secretary of Ste of Texas
NOV 1 8 1988
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
Clem Y•8
OF Corporations Section
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO
We, the undersigned natural persons, who are of the age of eighteen (18) years or
more, acting as incorporators of a corporation under the Texas Non-Profit Corporation
Act, do hereby adopt the following Articles of Incorporation for such corporations
ARTICLE ONE
NAME
The name of the corporation is the First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio.
ARTICLE TWO
NON-PROFIT CORPORATION
The corporation is a non-profit corporation.
ARTICLE THREE
DURATION
The period of its duration is perpetual.
ARTICLE FOUR
PURPOSES
The purposes for which the corporation is formed is the support of public worship
and the worship of Almighty God; instruction and education according to the Holy Bible,
the Book of Confessions and the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), or
any successor; service to others; and such other religious, benevolent, charitable, and
educational activities as may be appropriate. Incidental thereto, such corporation shall
have authority to do any and all things necessary or proper to the operation of a church,
as may be permitted by the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), or any
successors, and permitted under the laws of the United States and of the State of Texas.
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ARTICLE FIVE
INITIAL REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT
The street office of the initial registered office of the corporation Is 404 North
Alamo St., San Antonio, Texas 78205, and the name of its original registered agent at
such address is Louis H. Zbinden, Jr.
ARTICLE SIX
MEMBERS OF THE CORPORATION
The members of the corporation shall be all of the active members (as that term
is defined in the Book of Order) of the First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio at the
time of incorporation and such other persons as may thereafter from time to time
become and remain active members of such church.
ARTICLE SEVEN
GOVERNANCE
The corporation shall be governed by the Session. The Church is governed prior to
incorporation by a session, elected by the congregation pursuant to provisions of the Book
of Order of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The current Session consists of forty-five
(45) elders, and they shall constitute the initial corporate Session. The number of elders
may from time to time be fixed and elected by the congregation pursuant to the
provisions of the aforesaid Book of Order. The Session shall also function as the Board of
Trustees. The following is a listing of the names and addresses of the current Session!
James D. Baskin Donald A. Beeler Robert Browning
280 Country Lane 145 Camellia Way 175 Primrose
San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209
Ben Chileutt Curtis N. Cox Edward W. Crane
405 Elizabeth 238 E. Edgewood 107 Briarcliff
San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78213
Mrs. Walter C. Dunlap Donald R. Drummond Donald E. Everett
24 Santa Clara Rd. 301 East Kings Highway 142 Laurel Heights PL
Seguin, TX 78155 San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78212
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03790I 6
Mrs, C.W. Ferguson Fred W. Gould Mrs. Peter Rains
13795 Bluff Villa Ct. 7207 Payaya Drive 7610 Vinewood Court
San Antonio, TX 78216 San Antonio, TX 78223 San Antonio, TX 78209
J. Joe Harris Houston H. Herta Thomas Hawkes
321 Geneseo 2207 Camelback P.O. Drawer 121
San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78291
James H. Hopper Bo S. Kampmenn Mrs. Blair P. Labatt
107 Wickford Way 131 E. Kings Highway 212 W. Summitt
San Antonio, TX 78213 San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78212
T Weir Labatt, HI. George J. Laughead Mrs. Robert H, LePere
135 W. Elsmere Place 336 Tuxedo 2211 Camelback
San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209
Charles 13. Lutz, III William J. Lyons John W. McLeod
147 Oakhurst 720 Castano 504 IV, Magnolia
San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78212
Marlon W. McCurdy Orvis E. Meador, Jr. Daniel C. Morales
601 Mandalay Drive East 151 Cave Lane 6130 Ingram, 01703
San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, IX 78238
Will A, Morriss Mrs. Julia Norton Charles G. Grainger
215 Royal Oaks 218 Stanford 2206 Camelback
San Antonio, TX 78298 San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78209
David Peeples Jack W. Pool William L. Ruhmann
335 Rockhill 334 Woodway Forest 127 W. Elmview
San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78209
Mrs. Jean T. Rushing Robert R. Scott John R. Shaw
302 Rile Vista Dr. 301 Kennedy 2611 Eisenhauer, 0602
San Antonio, TX 78216 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78208
Mrs, Gary P. Simone George H. Spencer, Jr. Louis H, Stumberg
435 Wood Shadow 202 W. Summitt H.R. 2, Box 303A
San Antonio, TX 78216 San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78249
Ronald G. Tef teller Joseph E. Warrick J. Michael Wilkes
228 Luther Dr. 3427 Hopecrest 403 Lazy Bluff
San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78230 San Antonio, TX 78216
Mrs. Kaye E. Wilkins Margaret Wyatt Elizabeth Zogheib
560 Grandview 135 W. French PL,0211 135 W. French Pl., 0102
San Antonio, TX 78209 San Antonio, TX 78212 San Antonio, TX 78209
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. ARTICLE EIGHT
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS
All business bf the corporation shall be conducted and transacted commensurate
with the laws of the United States and the State of Texas and according to the rules and
regulations of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), or its successor, as prescribed by the
General Assembly, by the Synod, and by the Presbytery to which the corporation belongs,
according to the principles and doctrines of such demonination as enunciated in its Book
of Confessions and Book of Order.
ARTICLE EIGHT
INCORPORATORS
The name and street address of each incorporator Is :
Name Address
Myrl PL Hart 321 Sunset Road
San Antonio, TX 78209
Ike S. Kampmann, Jr. 131 E. Kings Hwy.
San Antonio, TX 78212
James D. Baskin 280 Country Lane
San Antonio, TX 78209
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands this Nth day of
November, 1988.
73. 1141t5ra
Incorporator
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n1 09 91 I 4 9. U
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF BEXAR 5
I, Patricia Agisotells, a notary public, do hereby certify that on the 18th day of
November, 1988, personally appeared before me Myrt M. Hart, Ice S. Hampmann, Jr. and
James D. Baskin, who, each being by me first duly sworn, severally declared that they
are the persona who signed the foregoing document as Incorporators, and that the
statements therein contained are true.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and seal on the day and year
above written. 9
/
,_ . •
Votary Public the S too texas
Printed Name: C.01. 450TE:.4/3-
My Commission Expires: 5/9
j• • •
tr• .' •
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EXHIBIT B
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant,
v.
ED BONDURANT, et aL,
Intervenors. 73RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT
AFFIDAVIT OF WILLIAM C. POE
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF TRAVIS §
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, came on this day the Reverend Dr. William
Christopher Poe who, being personally known to me, was placed under oath and testified as
follows:
1. "My name is William C. Poe. I am over the age of eighteen (18) years and am
competent in all respects to make the following Affidavit. I am the Interim Stated Clerk of
Mission Presbytery (hereinafter "Mission"), and the following facts are true and correct and
within my personal knowledge as Interim Stated Clerk of Mission.
2. A presbytery, like Mission, is a corporate expression of the church within a
certain district, composed of all the congregations and all the teaching elders (ministers) within
that district. As a presbytery, Mission is a district administrative unit of the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.) (hereinafter "PC(USA)"). Mission is responsible for ensuring that local congregations
like First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (hereinafter "FPC") adhere to the PC(USA)
Constitution. The PC(USA)'s Constitution is divided into two parts: (1) the Book of
Confessions and (2) the Book of Order. By the terms of the PC(USA) Constitution, every
PC(USA) congregation is subject to the terms of the PC(USA) Constitution. For any given
congregation to be subject to the PC(USA) Constitution, the individual congregation must be a
member of the national denomination. In other words, all member congregations of PC(USA)
are subject to the PC(USA) Constitution, and no non-member congregations are subject to the
Constitution.
3. Mission is also charged with representing the interests of its member
congregations and individual church members of those congregations, which includes the
members of FPC as a PC(USA) congregation.
4. From the date of FPC's organization as a congregation to present, including the
period from 1983 (the date of reunion and merger between the PCUS and UPCUSA, creating
PC(USA)) to present, Mission and PC(USA) have provided FPC with substantial financial
support. This financial support includes, but is not limited to:
a. FPC using the PC(USA)'s name, affiliation, and registered mark to
recruit members, donors and staff, including, for example: FPC's
newsletters and website have regularly used the PC(USA) seal, and
all of FPC's pastors since 1983 have been hired through Mission
via the presbyterian system overseen by Mission's Committee on
Ministry, including the time, effort, and periodic reimbursement of
various members of that committee;
2
b. FPC and its pastors participating in the Board of Pensions (the
retirement and medical plan of the PC(USA), overseen and
administered by PC(USA) personnel who are paid by the
PC(USA)) and using those benefits to attract employees.
5. Mission provided the above support to FPC so that FPC could use it for the
specific purpose of benefiting the PC(USA), and the members of PC(USA), Mission Presbytery,
and FPC as a PC(USA) congregation.
6. On June 9, 2015, Mission received a letter from FPC's counsel on behalf of FPC
specifically asking to negotiate promptly (1) the relinquishment of any claim by Mission and the
PC(USA) of any interest in FPC property and (2) the terms of FPC's dismissal from the
PC(USA) denomination to another reformed body.
William C. Poe
Sworn to and subscribed before me the undersigned authority on this theOday of July,
2015.
e. CATHERINE ANN DANIELS
72) NOTARY PUBUC
Stele of Texee
-...-- Comm Exp. 12-182017
Notary Public, State of Texas
3
EXHIBIT C
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant,
v.
ED BONDURANT, et at,
Intervenors. 73" JUDICIAL DISTRICT
AFFIDAVIT OF ED BONDURANT
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF BEXAR §
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, came on this day Ed Bondurant, who, being
personally known to me, was placed under oath and testified as follows:
1. "My name is Ed Bondurant. I am over the age of eighteen (18) years and am
competent in all respects to make the following Affidavit. I am a member of the First
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (hereinafter "FPC"), and the following facts are true and
correct and within my personal knowledge.
2. I have been a member of FPC since 1973. Since the merger of the PCUS with the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (hereinafter "PCUSA") in 1983, FPC has always represented itself
as a local congregation of the PCUSA, and I have always understood that FPC is a PCUSA
congregation and is subject to the Constitution, rules, and regulations promulgated by PCUSA.
4863636.1
PC US, which was then succeeded by the PCUSA pursuant to the merger.
Between 1973 and present, including the period from 1988 to present, I have donated
(with my spouse Paula Bondurant) approximately $94,247.48 to FPC. Each donation that I made
to FPC was made to FPC as a congregation of the PCUSA so that FPC could use the funds in
furtherance of its corporate purpose for the benefit of FPC as a PCUSA congregation. It was my
understanding and intent that the donations would only be used for the purpose of benefitting
PCUSA by virtue of FPC being a member church and that FPC would operate pursuant to the
Constitution, rules, and regulations of the PCUSA. I did not have any intent at the time of my
donations for any of my donations to be used for the benefit of any other denomination."
tig-FvutoiAk-v-e-
Ed Bondurant
Sworn to and subscribed before me the undersigned authority on this the et day of July,
2015.
Qoult DA-Act ougm,
ota4 Public, State of Texas
JENNIFER MCLAUGHLIN
My Commission Expires
March 2. 2017
-- —— _ I
EXHIBIT I)
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant,
v.
ED BONDURANT, et al,
Intervenors, 73' JUDICIAL DISTRICT
AFFIDAVIT OF PAULA BONDURANT
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF BEXAR
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, came on this day Paula Bondurant, who, being
personally known to me, was placed under oath and testified as follows:
I. "My name is Paula Bondurant I am over the age of eighteen (18) years and am
competent in all respects to make the following Affidavit. I am a member of the First
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (hereinafter "FPC"), and the following facts are true and
correct and within my personal knowledge.
I have been a member of FPC since 1976. Since the merger of the PCUS with the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (hereinafter "PCUSA") in 1983, FPC has always represented itself
as a local congregation of the PCUSA, and I have always understood that FPC is a PCUSA
congregation and is subject to the Constitution, rules, and regulations promulgated by PCUSA.
At all times prior to the merger, FPC always represented itself as a local congregation of the
4863656.1
PLUS, which was then succeeded by the PCUSA pursuant to the merger.
Between 1973 and present, including the period from 1988 to present, I have donated
(with my spouse Ed Bondurant) approximately $94,247.48 to FPC. Each donation that I made to
FPC was made to FPC as a congregation of the PCUSA so that FPC could use the funds in
furtherance of its corporate purpose for the benefit of FPC as a PCUSA congregation. It was my
understanding and intent that the donations would only be used for the purpose of benefitting
PCUSA by virtue of FPC being a member church and that FPC would operate pursuant to the
Constitution, rules, and regulations of the PCUSA. I did not have any intent at the time of my
donations for any of my donations to be used for the benefit of any other denomination."
atik :13441144).14/Va
Paula Bondurant
Sworn to and subscribed before me the undersigned authority on this ther2c1day of July,
2015.
;c;UkAlk c2• Si c5 .1.)kUt 01 \,
CtLt Public, State of Texas ‘
JENNIFER MCLAUGHLIN
My Commission Expo)
March 2, 2017
EXHIBIT E
CAUSE fi10. 2015-C 07858
FIRST P. ESBYTERIAN CHURCH 0 IN THE DISTRICT CO T
SAN AN ONTO
intiff,
119
v.
MISSIO PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TE
De endant,
v.
ED BON URANT, et. at,
In rvenors. 73RD JUDICIAL DIST
11. T
AFFIDAN IT OF BO WISE
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY F BEXAR
BE ORE ME, the undersigned aythority, ca e on this day Bob Wise, o, eing
personalty I¢nown to me, was placed under oath and testi ied as follows:
"My name is Bob Wise. I am] over the ag of eighteen (18) years and an' rn tent
in all reqnots to make the following Afficlai it. 1 am a ember of the First Presbyte urch
of San Antonio (hereinafter "FPC"), and tlip following acts are true and correct and iitk p my
personal!knOwledge.
I
1 have been a member of FPC since 1997 Since the merger of the PC th the
Presbyteria Church (U.S.A.) (hereinafter "'1 CUSA") in 1983, FPC has always repre ' I d itself
as a localngregation of the PCUSA, aid I have al ys understood that FPC PC SA
[
congregatio and is subject to the Constitution, rules, an regulations promulgated by U5 . At
I
4863777.1
all times prior to the merger, FTC always relpresented itself as a local congregation o P US,
which was hen succeeded by the PCUSA Pursuant to the merger.
3. Between 1997 and present I have .unated (with my spouse a tise)
approximat ly $20,200 to FPC. Each donation that made to FPC was made t FPC as a
congreg&ti of the PCUSA so that ITC cot use the funds.in furtherance of its corpo rte pu-pose
for the lien fit of FPC as a PCUSA congregation. It was my understanding and in th- t the
donations ould only be used for the purpOse of benefitting PCUSA by virtue of C be ng a
memberch rch and that FPC would operate) pursuant to the Constitution, rules, and re lati ins of
the PC SA I did not have any intent at thetime of my donations for any of my do iloni to be
9
used forithel benefit of any other denominatiOn."
Bob
Swoyn to and subscribed before me i re undersign ed authority on this the 1041C ay o uly,
2015.
Aft. Ai/
I Notary Pub ic, State of exaa
.1nr.° ElFtAllej
- K BREMER ,,
Notifry Public
STATFF TEXAS
My Comm. Kp.11-18•2015
OVVV VVVYVVIVVYV VVVVVVVVve
4863777.1
EXHIBIT F
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST P SBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT CO
SAN AN ONIO
Pi intiff,
v.
MISSIOI PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TE
D endant,
v.
ED BON URANT, et at,
rvenors. 73RD JUDICIAL DIS
AFFIDAV T OF ANN WISE
STATE OF TEXAS §
§
COUNT Y 4W BEXAR §
REEORE ME, the undersigned aulh ority, cam on this day Anna Wise
1
personal y Known to me, was placed under (lath and testi led as follows:
1'. "My name is Anna Wise. 11 am over he age of eighteen (18) y
I am
1
competent i all respects to make the following Affidavit I am a member of the First rian
Church of S n Antonio (hereinafter "FPC"), and the folio ving facts are true and correc thin
my persona knowledge.
I have regularly attended FPC'` since 1991 Since the merger of the PC the
Presbyterial Church (U.S.A.) (hereinafter "PCUSA") in 1983, FPC has always repre self
as a local ciongregation of the PCUSA, and I have al ays understood that FPC is SA
congregatiot and is subject to the Constitution, rules, and regulations promulgated by P At
4863786,1
1
all times p or to the merger, FPC always represented i elf as a local congregation o US,
which was (hen succeeded by the PCUSA pursuant to t merger.
3. Between 1997 and presertlt, I have onated (with my spouse ise)
approximately $20,200 to FPC. Each do ation that made to FPC was made t as a
congrenti of the PCUSA so that FPC cot4d use the fu ds in furtherance of its corpo se
for the benffit of FPC as a PCUSA congregation. It as my understanding and in the
donations v rould only be used for the purpose of bene Ming PCUSA by virtue of ga
i
member ch irch and that FPC would operate pursuant to e Constitution, rules, and re s of
the Pals I did not have any intent at d11 time of m donations for any of my don o be
used forth benefit of any other denominat a."
Anna Wise
2015.
„„,.r to and subscribed before me the unders. 0 uly,
Notary Pub ic, State of Texas
I BRADLEY K. BREMER
Notary Public II.
STATE OF TEXAS
My Comm. Exp. 11484016
4863786.1
EXHIBIT G
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant,
v.
ED BONDURANT, et at,
Intervenors. 731D JUDICIAL DISTRICT
AFFIDAVIT OF 1VIIRIAM OGLESBEE ELLISON
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF BEXAR §
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, came on this day Miriam Oglesbee Ellison,
who, being personally known to me, was placed under oath and testified as follows:
1. "My name is Miriam Oglesbee Ellison. I am over the age of eighteen (18) years
and am competent in all respects to make the following Affidavit. I am a member of the First
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (hereinafter "FPC"), and the following facts are true and
correct and within my personal knowledge.
2. I have been a member of FPC since 1979. Since the merger of the PCUS with the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (hereinafter "PCUSA") in 1983, FPC has always represented itself
as a local congregation of the PCUSA, and I have always understood that FPC is a PCUSA
congregation and is subject to the Constitution, rules, and regulations promulgated by PCUSA.
4863693.1
At all times prior to the merger, FPC always represented itself as a local congregation of the
PCUS, which was then succeeded by the PCUSA pursuant to the merger.
3. Between 1979 and present, including the period from 1988 to present, I have
donated approximately $29,000 to FPC. Bach donation that I made to FPC was made to FPC as
a congregation of the PCUSA so that FPC could use the funds in furtherance of its corporate
purpose for the benefit of FPC as a PCUSA congregation. It was my understanding and intent
that the donations would only be used for the purpose of benefitting PCUSA by virtue of FPC
being a member church and that FPC would operate pursuant to the Constitution, rules, and
regulations of the PCUSA. I did not have any intent at the time of my donations for any of my
donations to be used for the benefit of any other denomination."
Sworn to and subscribed before me the undersigned authority on this the QC1 day of July,
2015.
44:(7arAmeitg-
Notary Public, State of Texas
c% MARY CATHERINE HOOKER
ibtliTi
P .•
t 2,1 Notary Public. Slate of Texas
.r. My Commission Expires
Seplember 03, 2010
4863693.1
EXHIBIT H
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant,
v.
ED BONDURANT, et aL,
Intervenors. 73RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT
AFFIDAVIT OF DON DRUMMOND
STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF BEXAR §
BEFORE ME, the undersigned authority, came on this day Don Drummond, who, being
personally known to in; was placed under oath and testified as follows:
1. "My name is Don Drummond. I am over the age of eighteen (18) years and am
competent in all respects to make the following Affidavit. I am a member of the First
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (hereinafter "FPC"), and the following facts are true end
correct and within my personal knowledge.
2. I have been a member of FPC since 1967. Since the merger of the PCUS with the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (hereinafter "PCUSA") in 1983, FPC has always represented itself
as a local congregation of the PCUSA, and I have always understood that FPC is a PCUSA
congregation and is subject to the Constitution, ndes, and regulations promulgated by PCUSA.
4863755.1
At all times prior to the merger, FPC always represented itself as a local congregation of the
PLUS, which was then succeeded by the PCUSA pursuant to the merger.
3. Between 1967 and present, including the period from 198$ to present, I have
donated approximately $137,000.00 to FPC. Each donation that I made to FPC was made to
FPC as a congregation of the PCUSA so that FPC could use the funds in furtherance of its
corporate purpose for the benefit of FPC as a PCUSA congregation. It was my understanding
and intent that the donations would only be used for the purpose of benefitdng PCUSA by virtue
of FPC being a member church and that FPC would operate pursuant to the Constitution, rules,
and regulations of the PCUSA. I did not have any intent at the time of my donations for any of
my donations to be used for the benefit of any other denomination."
Don Drummond
va
Sworn to and subscribed before me the undersigned authority on this the W day of July,
2015.
pat/rte
Notary ?ohne, State of Texas
er% MARY CATHERINE HOOKER
Notary Public. State of Texas
4 My Commission Expires
ix
m„.0 September 03. 2018
4863755.1
1111111.1M01111111
..
-ogtia
201502117058
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO,
Plaintiff,
V.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant.
v.
ED BONDURANT, et al,
73Rd JUDICIAL DISTRICT
Intervenors
ORDER DENYING INTERVENORS'
EMERGENCY MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF
INTERVENORS' APPLICATION FOR. TEMPORARY INJUNCTION
Came on to be considered Intervenors' Emergency Motion for Reconsideration of
Intervenors' Application for Temporary Injunction. After considering the Intervenors'
Motion for Reconsideration, Plaintiff's Brief in Opposition, any further replies or
responsive pleadings, the evidence presented, the record, and the arguments of counsel, if
any, the Court finds that the Intervenors' Emergency Motion for Reconsideration on
Intervenors' Application for Temporary Injunction should be DENIED.
IT JS THEREFORE ORDERED that Intervenors' Emergency Motion for
Reconsideration on Intervenors' Application for Temporary Injunction is DENIED.
SIGNED on the _1 2_ day of Q(—Ina ,2015,
JUDGE PRES
ORDER DENYING EMERGENCY MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION PAGE 1
Exhibit G
, CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH § IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v. § 73RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MISSION PRESBYTERY,
Defendants. § BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Deposition Designations from the August 11, 2015
Deposition of Reverend Raymond Martin Tear
Pg 4, Ln 23 - Pg 5, Ln 6
Pg 14, Ln 17 - Pg 16, Ln 25
Pg 17, Ln 9 - Pg 17, Ln 11
Pg 18, Ln 11 - Pg 20, Ln 3
Pg 21, Ln 11- Pg 21, Ln 21
Pg 23, Ln 3 - Pg 23, Ln 7
Pg 23, Ln 22 - Pg 25, Ln 3
Pg 26, Ln 24 - Pg 27, Ln 2
Pg 28, Ln 16 - Pg 29, Ln 16
Pg 29, Ln 25 - Pg 30, Ln 22
Pg 31, Ln 15 - Pg 31, Ln 24
Pg 32, Ln 21 - Pg 33, Ln 3
Pg 34, Ln 10 - Pg 34, Ln 19
Pg 37, Ln 19 - Pg 40, Ln 2
Pg 42, Ln 10 - Pg 43, Ln 9
Pg 44, Ln 7 - Pg 44, Ln 24
Pg 45, Ln 10 - Pg 45, Ln 25
1
6297999.1
(
Pg 46, Ln 17 — Pg 48, Ln 22
Pg 51, Ln 17 — Pg 52, Ln 4
Pg 53, Ln 19 — Pg 54, Ln 5
Pg 55, Ln 16 — Pg 56, Ln 23
Pg 102, Ln 20 — Pg 102, Ln 24
Pg 103, Ln 15 — Pg 104, Ln 16
Pg 105, Ln 25 — Pg 109, Ln 1
Pg 111, Ln 22 — Pg 112, Ln 6
2
6297999.1
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 4:23 to 5:6)
4
23 Q. Okay. Would you tell us your name, please?
24 A. Raymond Martin Tear.
25 Q. And what is your occupation?
5
1 A. I'm currently pastor of First Presbyterian
2 Church of Ingram, Texas.
3 Q. And are you ordained as a pastor?
4 A. Yes, I am.
5 Q. And in what -- what denomination?
6 A. The Presbyterian Church, USA.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 14:17 to 16:25)
14
17 Q. All right. Now, you're in a new church
18 building now. When was that building constructed?
19 A. It was constructed 1990 -- started in, I
20 believe, 1997. Was completed in 1998, and the
21 congregation moved in, in '98.
22 Q. Now, when that building was constructed, was
23 the church part of the PCUSA?
24 A. Yes.
25 Q. Okay. So when First Presbyterian Church of
15
1 Ingram was first formed, it was under the United
2 Presbyterian Church.
3 A. Yes.
4 Q. That was in 1951?
5 A. Yes.
6 Q. Then the merger took place in 1983 of
7 the north --
8 A. Yes.
9 Q. Let me finish my question -- of the northern
10 and southern churches. Did First Presbyterian Church of
11 Ingram vote to join the merged denomination?
12 A. That wasn't a -- a choice that was left up to
13 congregations. The --
14 MR. de la FUENTE: Object to form.
15 THE WITNESS: Pardon me?
16 MR. de la FUENTE: Sometimes I'm going to
17 object to form.
18 THE WITNESS: Okay.
3
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19 MR. de la FUENTE: It's just for the
20 record. You may answer the question.
21 THE WITNESS: Okay.
22 A. That was not an issue that was subject to a
23 congregational vote. What it required was a vote of both
24 general assemblies, votes in the Presbyteries, and then I
25 believe it required another vote of the general
16
1 assemblies of the two denominations.
2 Q. (By Mr. West) So it was your understanding that
3 the Presbyteries voted on whether or not to -- to merge
4 the two denominations rather than the local churches; is
5 that correct?
6 A. Correct.
7 MR. de la FUENTE: Object, form.
8 A. Correct.
9 Q. Okay. When the new church building was
10 constructed in Ingram, how was it paid for?
11 A. The congregation had raised a major portion of
12 the cost for building the building. They had acquired
13 the land a few years earlier. Then -- and here again, I
14 can't give you the exact name, but general assembly has a
15 loan fund that local congregations can borrow from in
16 order to help them with building or renovation or
17 something like that, and this took place before I was
18 there.
19 The church borrowed a substantial sum from
20 the general assembly loan fund so that they would have
21 enough to -- to do the site preparation that was
22 necessary and to build the building and to complete 70
23 percent of it. It's a 10,000-square-foot building.
24 There was 3,000 square feet that were left unfinished at
25 the time.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Page 17:9 to 17:11)
17
9 Q. Okay. And you talked about the loan. What's
10 the balance on that loan for the building?
11 A. Zero. There's no balance. It's been paid off.
4
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Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 18:11 to 20:3)
18
11 Q. Okay. Let me ask you about the organization of
12 First Presbyterian Church of Ingram. Does it have a
13 governing body?
14 A. Yes, we have a Session.
15 Q. And are there articles and bylaws or bylaws for
16 the church?
17 A. Yes, there are.
18 Q. And who prepared those? Let me rephrase that.
19 Were those prepared in conjunction with Presbytery?
20 A. Not to my knowledge.
21 Q. Have they ever been amended?
22 A. Yes, they have.
23 Q. When was the amendment of -- done?
24 A. There have been various small amendments at
25 various times. The latest amendment to the church bylaws
19
1 would have been when the new form of government was
2 approved, and one of the things that was recommended for
3 congregations to do was if they wanted to retain Robert's
4 Rules of Order as the parliamentary procedure that was to
5 be followed, you needed to have a congregational meeting
6 and amen -- amend the bylaws accordingly, and so we did
7 that.
8 Q. Under the Articles of Incorporation of First
9 Presbyterian Church of Ingram, who are the directors?
10 A. For the corporation, there are three trustees,
11 and those are people who currently serve on the Session,
12 as well.
13 Q. And what is the role of the trustees?
14 A. Role of the trustees is to deal with whatever
15 matters would occur between the corporation and the State
16 of Texas or other local governments.
17 Q. Okay. So is the church organized under the
18 laws of the State of Texas?
19 A. Yes, it is.
20 Q. When the articles were amended, did First
21 Presbyterian Church of Ingram get permission from
22 Presbytery to amend those articles?
23 A. There was no -- no, we did not.
24 Q. Why?
25 A. Permission was not necessary.
20
1 Q. And how do you know that?
2 A. Book of Order doesn't say anything about
5
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3 needing permission from Presbytery to amend the bylaws.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Page 21:11 to 21:21)
21
11 Q. Do you receive — tell me where the funds for
12 the operation of the church come from.
13 A. The funds for operation of the church come
14 primarily from the contributions of members. We have
15 some other people who — we call them friends of the
16 congregation — who don't necessarily attend, even, but
17 are in sympathy with some of the ministries that we
18 support. They contribute. We also have some small cash
19 reserves, some of which are in CD's, and so there's a
20 little bit of interest that comes, but these days, that's
21 not very much.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Page 23:3 to 23:7)
23
3 Q. When the checks are made payable to the church,
4 even if it's for a specified purpose, are the checks made
'5 out -- which entity are the checks made out to?
6 A. The checks are made out to First Presbyterian
7 Church of Ingram.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 23:22 to 25:3)
23
22 Q. Okay. Now, if the check was made payable to
23 First Presbyterian Church of Ingram, is the church
24 obligated to send any portion of that money to Mission
25 Presbytery?
24
1 A. No.
2 Q. Is it obligated to send any portion of that
3 money to the PCUSA?
4 A. No.
6
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5 Q. Has the church -- currently does the -- does
6 First Presbyterian Church of Ingram make any payments or
7 distributions of funds to Mission Presbytery?
8 A. Only if they come -- only if they come in as
9 designated funds would that be done at this point.
10 Q. Okay. In the past, has First Presbyterian
11 Church of Ingram ever made distributions or payment of
12 funds to Mission Presbytery?
13 A. Yes.
14 Q. And about what percentage of your budget would
15 you say went to Presbytery?
16 A. Well, there would have been per capita and --
17 which is a suggested contribution based on so much money
18 per member, but again, that's not a requirement. It's a
19 suggestion. There have been payments made in the past,
20 but it's been quite some time, and I -- I couldn't give
21 you an amount.
22 Q. Did those payments stop during the time that
23 you were the head pastor?
24 A. Yes.
25 Q. Was -- does Presbytery have the ability to come
25
1 in and compel First Presbyterian Church of Ingram to make
2 the per capita payments you just described?
3 A. Not according to the Book of Order.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 26:24 to 27:2)
26
24 Q. Okay. Let me back up and ask you, first, when
25 did First Presbyterian Church of Ingram first express an
27
1 interest in leaving the denomination, the PCUSA?
2 A. That would have been about 2011.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 28:16 — 29:16)
28
16 Q. Was there a process in 2011 for dismissal of
17 churches from the denomination?
18 A. Yes. It was rather informal. It was just a
7
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19 set of practices that the committee on ministry and
20 Presbytery had -- had used, but it was not a formal
21 policy.
22 Q. Was there anything in the Book of Order at that
23 time that gave governance on how a particular church
24 would leave the denomination?
25 A. Just that Presbytery could dismiss
29
1 congregations. There was no detailed step-by-step sort
2 of plan for doing that.
3 Q. Okay. So you talked with your Session in 2011,
4 and about what time of year was that? Do you remember?
5 A. This would have been after March of 2011.
6 Q. Okay. After the vote by Presbytery. Okay.
7 What was the -- the next step in the discussions to --
8 about leaving the denomination?
9 A. Well, they asked me about the process, and as I
10 was -- as I told them, I had already spoken with the
11 chairman of the Committee on Ministry because I knew that
12 I was going to be asked what is the process if we want to
13 leave.
14 Q. And who was the chairman of --
15 A. The chairman of the Committee on Ministry at
16 that time was the Reverend Richard Powell.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 29:25 to 30:22)
29
25 Q. And why did you call him?
30
1 A. Because he was chairman of the Committee on
2 Ministry, and it was the Committee on Ministry that
3 handles -- or at that time was handling those matters
4 pretty much on their own.
5 Q. Okay. So can you tell us briefly what the role
6 of Committee on Ministry was at that time?
7 A. In the dismissal process?
8 Q. Right.
9 A. Yeah. They would meet with the -- with the
10 congregation and the pastor, and there was an informal
11 policy that congregation was to pay 10 percent of the
12 value of their property and other assets, and that the
13 Committee on Ministry would then -- this would be an
8
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14 agreement between Presbytery and the congregation, that
15 the Committee on Ministry would then recommend that the
16 congregation be dismissed to some other
17 reformed denom- -- reformed or Presbyterian denomination.
18 Q. Was any of this set down in writing at that
19 time?
20 A. When I spoke with Reverend Powell, he -- he
21 didn't say anything about a written policy. He said,
22 "This is the practice that we're following."
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 31:15 to 31:24)
31
15 Q. All right. What was the next discussion that
16 took place after that, after you met with the Session?
17 A. Well, they wanted to be sure that the
18 congregation would be on board with that, and so we did
19 have a congregational meeting to -- to discuss that
20 possibility because of -- it's a small congregation. The
21 Session knows the congregation quite well, but we knew it
22 wasn't a decision that the Session could make, nor could
23 I. It has to be a congregational decision, so we wanted
24 to see if they were on board with beginning that process.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 32:21 to 33:3)
32
21 Q. What happened after that congregational
22 meeting?
23 A. In -- at the June meeting of Presbytery,
24 Reverend Powell came to me and said, "Two of your elders
25 have come to me to say -- to -- to tell me that they're
33
1 concerned about the direction of the church." That's
2 almost a direct quote. "And so we are going to send in a
3 Listening Team."
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 34:10 to 34:19)
34
10 Q. Had you ever heard the term "Listening Team"
11 before?
9
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12 A. Not that I recall.
13 Q. Did he tell you what a Listening Team did?
14 A. Only in broad outlines, that they would be
15 visiting with -- with the Session, with me, and with
16 members of the congregation.
17 Q. Had you ever heard of another church receiving
18 a visit from a Listening Team in this Presbytery?
19 A. Not that I recall.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 37:19 to 40:2)
37
19 Q. Okay. At this time, had any further action
20 been taken to try to -- by the church to lead the
21 denomination?
22 A. Seems about that time a committee known as --
23 we call the Study Group had been formed to look at
24 various denominations and reformed tradition -- reformed
25 in Presbyterian -- that might be possible fits for First
38
1 Presbyterian Church of Ingram, and looking at things like
2 their form of government, how administration works,
3 finances, those sorts of things, mission emphases, that
4 sort of thing.
5 Q. Okay. Now, after these first couple of
6 meetings where the Listening Team came to the church --
7 A. Right.
8 Q. -- for a couple of different days, what
9 happened after that?
10 A. The Listening Team prepared its report and told
11 us that they had it done and that they wanted to meet
12 with the Session. So we had a called Session meeting --
13 Q. Okay.
14 A. -- and I don't think all members of the
15 Listening Team were present, but at least two of them
16 were. Maybe -- maybe more.
17 Q. And, roughly, when was that called Session
18 meeting?
19 A. I'm thinking this was probably about the end of
20 August, maybe. I might not have the --
21 Q. I see.
22 A. -- analogy quite right.
23 Q. Okay.
24 A. But the end of August, maybe first part of
10
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25 September following the meetings. It was in pretty
39
1 short -- pretty short time after they met with members of
2 the congregation and myself they prepared the report, and
3 so we had the called Session meeting. Reverend Huser
4 came in, and he says, "We have our report ready. We're
5 not here to discuss it. We're not here to debate it.
6 We're just here to put it in your hands." And so they
7 did.
8 Q. And so they gave you a written report, and
9 basically what did that report say?
10 A. The report said that I had spent too much time
11 on certain aspects of pastoral ministry, namely, teaching
12 and preaching, and some other community involvement, and
13 not enough time on developing an evangelism program or a
14 Christian education program and that what I had done, in
15 their estimation, was to spend all my time on things that
16 I enjoyed and to have ignored pretty much everything
17 else.
18 Q. And after you received that report and the
19 Session received that report, what was the next action
20 taken on that report?
21 A. The Session informed the congregation of the
22 nature and content of the report, and then the
23 congregation was rather outraged at the content and so
24 prepared a letter basically saying that what's said in
25 the report is not true and that I hadn't been neglectful,
40
1 so on, and -- and they -- they all signed it. That was
2 sent to the Committee on Ministry, as I recall.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 42:10 to 43:9)
42
10 Q. Okay. So after that meeting with Committee on
11 Ministry, what happened after that?
12 A. The recommendation of the Committee on Ministry
13 was that Presbytery should approve an Administrative
14 Commission to --
15 Q. And what's an Administrative Commission?
16 A. Okay. An Administrative Commission is an
17 appointed body of teaching and ruling elders that is
18 tasked with a particular job. They have the authority of
19 the whole governing body so that whatever the commission
11
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20 does, its as though the whole governing body does it.
21 And their responsibilities, as well as their
22 jurisdiction, is normally laid out in the -- in the
23 motion that appoints the -- the Administrative
24 Commission.
25 MR. de la FUENTE: Objection,
43
1 responsiveness.
2 Q. And who -- who -- who appointed the
3 Administrative Commission?
4 A. The -- well, they're appointed by Presbytery,
5 a -- a slate of people to serve on the Administrative
6 Commission is presented, normally. In this case, I
7 believe that the formation of the Commission was approved
8 with the actual membership to be approved, and by the
9 Committee on Ministry.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 44:7 to 44:24)
44
7 Q. Okay. So did you ever see anything in writing
8 about what the charge to the Administrative Commission
9 from Presbytery was?
10 A. It was in the -- in the motion that was
11 presented.
12 Q. Okay.
13 A. They had -- their charge was to look into the
14 situation at First Presbyterian Church of Ingram, Texas,
15 to take steps to resolve that, up to and including
16 dissolution of the pastor relationship --
17 Q. And when --
18 A. -- between -- the pastor relationship between
19 myself and the congregation.
20 Q. And when you say "dissolution of the pastor
21 relationship," is that basically terminating the pastor
22 from employment?
23 A. Correct, from employment with that
24 congregation, yes.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Page 45:10 to 45:25)
45
10 Q. Okay. Let me break it down now --
12
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11 A. Okay.
12 Q. -- into questions. Did the Administrative
13 Commission come and meet with the Session?
14 A. They attended a Session meeting, is what they
15 did. I wouldn't say they met with us. They attended --
16 I think -- well, my impression was they wanted to sit in
17 on a Session meeting to see how we conducted our
18 business.
19 Q. Okay.
20 MR. de la FUENTE: Object to
21 responsiveness.
22 Q. Did they -- were they observing at the Session
23 meeting, or did they run the Session meeting?
24 A. No, they did not run the Session meeting. They
25 moderated the Session meeting.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 46:17 to 48:22)
46
17 Q. Then the Session meeting took place in
18 November.
19 A. Correct.
20 Q. What took place at that Session meeting?
21 A. A long time member of the church had made a
22 substantial contribution and had become concerned with
23 what had happened at general assembly and then especially
24 with the action of Presbytery to appoint an
25 Administrative Commission, that the money that had been
47
1 given would be -- was in danger of being used for
2 purposes that, if Presbytery were to remove me and remove
3 the Session and assume original jurisdiction, that the
4 money would be used for purposes that this contributor --
5 member contributor -- would not agree with, and so asked
6 if the Session would be willing to refund the
7 contribution.
8 Q. And that request came from the donor?
9 A. It came from the donor, yes.
10 Q. Okay. And did this -- what did the Session do?
11 A. The Session took that as a very serious matter,
12 and the -- the motion was made and seconded that the
13 money be refunded to the donor. At that --
14 Q. And was that done?
15 A. No, it was not
13
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16 Q. Okay.
17 A. At that point, the chairman of the
18 Administrative Commission spoke up and said, 'Well, we're
19 going to assume jurisdiction over your finances."
20 Q. Did that take place at the Session meeting?
21 A. We were informed at the Session meeting, and
22 then later on we received a registered letter, Certified
23 Mail, that they had assumed original jurisdiction, yes.
24 Q. And what does that term mean, "Original
25 jurisdiction"?
48
1 A. "Original jurisdiction" means that the
2 Administrative Commission takes over that particular
3 function that would normally be in the hands of the
4 Session.
5 Q. Okay. How did -- does an Administrative
6 Commission take over the funds of a church? In this
7 case, how did the Administrative Commission do that?
8 A. They didn't take over the checkbook or anything
9 like that, but they laid out guidelines that we were to
10 follow. We could pay our -- our monthly bills and normal
11 mission stuff, but we were not supposed to make any other
12 kinds of expenditures.
13 Q. Okay. Was the refund of the -- of the funds to
14 the donor ever completed?
15 A. Never occurred.
16 Q. Okay. Had those funds been designated for any
17 particular purpose?
18 A. No, they had not been designated.
19 Q. Okay. What happened after the Administrative
20 Commission assumed original jurisdiction?
21 A. Well, we followed the rules that they laid out
22 for us to follow. I mean, our treasury did.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 51:17 to 52:4)
51
17 All right. Once the Administrative
18 Commission met with Session members and then members of
19 the church, what's the next action that the
20 Administrative Commission took?
21 A. The next action that they took was for the
22 chairman of the Administrative Commission to tell me
14
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23 personally, still at the -- at the church --
24 Q. Okay.
25 A. -- that they found no fault with me or with the
52
1 Session.
2 Q. Did you ever get a report from the
3 Administrative Commission?
4 A. Nothing in writing.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 53:19 to 54:5)
53
19 What did the Administrative Commission do
20 after that?
21 A. Okay. I was told by a member of the
22 Administrative Commission that the -- that a report had
23 been prepared, submitted to the Committee on Ministry,
24 but that it included the names of the two people who had
25 been dismissed; therefore, the Administrative
54
1 Commission -- or the -- excuse me -- the Committee on
2 Ministry had sent it back for those names to be edited
3 out and to be resubmitted.
4 Q. Did you ever get a copy of that report?
5 A. Never did.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 55:16 to 56:23)
55
16 Q. About when did the Administrative Commission
17 chair tell you that you had been -- that -- what were his
18 exact words to you? What did he tell you when he called
19 you?
20 A. No. He spoke with me face-to-face.
21 Q. Okay.
22 A. He said, "We find no fault with you, Ray Tear."
23 Q. What was your response?
24 A. Can we take a break -- well, no, we cant
25 This is a question, I realize. Sorry.
56
1 I was a bit -- I was a bit more composed
2 at that moment, and I said, "Bob, thank you very much.
3 Frankly, that's how I thought it would come out."
4 Q. Let me ask you about the Session. Had any
15
6297999.1
5 allegations been made about the activities of the
6 Session, by either these complainants or anybody at
7 Presbytery?
8 A. I don't know of any direct accusations because
9 we were never told -- all we were told was these people
10 were concerned about the direction of the church, which
11 is rather ambiguous.
12 Q. Did you ever receive a copy of any charges
13 against you?
14 A. Just the report from the Listening Team.
15 Q. Okay. And when you met with the head of the
16 Administrative Commission, did he tell you at that time
17 that he did not find any fault with the actions of the
18 Session?
19 A. He told me that the Session and I were both in
20 the clear on that
21 Q. Okay.
22 A. Those are not his exact words, but that was the
23 gist of the conversation.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 102:20 to 102:24)
102
20 Q. Reverend Tear, who prepared these articles?
21 A. These were prepared by a couple of members of
22 the -- of the -- excuse me. A couple members of the
23 Session who also serve as members of the board of
24 trustees.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 103:15 to 104:16)
103
15 Q. Okay. Have you -- or rather, has the church
16 looked at the Book of Order, if that's the right term,
17 for the Evangelical Presbyterian Church?
18 A. Yes, we have.
19 Q. Does the Evangelical Presbyterian Church have
20 any provision in its Book of Order which contains a trust
21 clause?
22 A. It does not. Well -- well, let me qualify
23 that, please. Any event that a congregation should
24 dissolve or cease to function, then the -- the assets
25 devolve to the Presbytery, but as long as the
104
1 congregation is a functioning congregation, it holds full
16
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2 title to its property --
3 Q. Okay.
4 A. -- according -- that's according to the EPC
5 Book of Order.
6 Q. If you will look at Exhibit Number 5 --
7 A. Yes.
8 Q. -- which is the third page back. It's actually
9 numbered page 1, Article IV.
10 A. Yes.
11 Q. That begins with, "Upon any dissolution of this
12 corporation." Do you see that?
13 A. Yes, I do.
14 Q. Has any effort been taken to dissolve the
15 corporation?
16 A. No, none at all.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 105:25 to 109:1)
105
25 Q. Did you have any discussions with -- I'll just
106
1 call it the "EPC," Evangelical Presbyterian Church --
2 about who would hold title to the property of the church
3 if the church does become associated with the EPC?
4 A. That was -- yes, that was one of the questions
5 that was asked of some people from the EPC that we
6 invited to come and tell us about the EPC.
7 Q. And what were you told?
8 A. We were told that the local congregation holds
9 its -- holds title to its property free and clear, you
10 know -- well, I'm sorry, free and clear and near --
11 whatever financial obligations they may have with other
12 financial institutions or something is another matter,
13 but, no, that the congregation is in charge of its
14 property, holds title to it.
15 Q. So it was your understanding, based on those
16 discussions, that First Presbyterian Church of Ingram
17 would hold title to its property free and clear of any
18 claim of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church; is that
19 correct?
20 A. Correct.
21 Q. Did you investigate -- oh, before I go there,
22 was it your understanding when these Articles of
23 Incorporation were passed by the congregation that the
24 church was in any way conveying ownership of First
17
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25 Presbyterian Church of Ingram's property to the EPC?
107
1 A. No, that's not what they were doing. They were
2 not seeking to convey property, no, not at all.
3 Q. Okay. So consequently, did you feel any need
4 to instruct the PCUSA or Mission Presbytery on the effect
5 of these articles?
6 A. No, we did not. What -- what we were doing as
7 part of the preparation for being dismissed to the
8 Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
9 Q. Now, as part of your investigation into what
10 other options there were for First Presbyterian Church of
11 Ingram --
12 A. Yes.
13 Q. -- to asso- -- affiliate or associate with
14 another denomination --
15 A. Right
16 Q. -- what other denominations did you look at?
17 A. The Christian Reform Church, the Reform Church
18 in America, looked at the Evangelical Covenant Order, but
19 it was -- that was done before it was actually formed as
20 a denomination, and a couple other Presbyterian
21 denominations, like the Associate Reformed Orthodox
22 Presbyterian Church, a fair number.
23 Q. Now, I didn't get the full list of all of
24 those. Let me ask you about the Christian Reform Church.
25 A. Yes.
108
1 Q. Do they have any provision where ownership of
2 the local church property is held or where title to the
3 local church property is held by that denomination?
4 A. I really can't answer that with -- without the
5 report that the Study Group prepared that --
6 Q. Okay.
7 A. -- contains all that information.
8 Q. Does the Evangelical Covenant Order
9 Presbyterians that you mentioned have any provisions, to
10 your knowledge, that would require ownership of local
11 church property by the denomination?
12 A. To the best of my knowledge, no.
13 Q. Are you aware of any other Presbyterian
14 denominations that have a trust clause in which property
15 is held by a local church for the benefit of the
16 denomination?
17 A. I am not
18 Q. Is that something you discussed or rather that
18
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19 the church discussed in its deliberations about whether
20 to join or affiliate with another denomination?
21 A. Absolutely. That's been one of the great fears
22 of many people, is that in being dismissed from the PCUSA
23 to the EPC, is that we -- we wanted to be sure -- or the
24 congregation wanted to be sure they were not going some
25 place where -- where they would have to face that kind
109
1 of -- of a situation.
Reverend Raymond Martin Tear, (Pages 111:22 to 112:6)
111
22 Q. Okay. What is the next step in the process of
23 negotiations with Presbytery about being dismissed from
24 the PCUSA to another denomination?
25 A. Well, the next step is the board of trustees of
112
1 Mission Presbytery are supposed to meet the end of
2 August, so I understand, at which time they're going to
3 discuss the -- the financial situation of First
4 Presbyterian Church of Ingram and what that means for
5 what the congregation would be able to contribute as a
6 parting gift from the PCUSA.
19
6297999.1
Exhibit H
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH § IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v. § 73RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MISSION PRESBYTERY,
Defendants. § BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Deposition Designations from the June 16, 2015
Deposition of Hector Reynoso
Pg 4, Ln 5 - Pg 4, Ln 8
Pg 5, Ln 11 - Pg 5, Ln 18
Pg 6, Ln 3 - Pg 6, Ln 21
Pg 8, Ln 2 - Pg 8, Ln 10
Pg 12, Ln 19 - Pg 13, Ln 6
Pg 14, Ln 3 - Pg 14, Ln 5
Pg 15, Ln 1 - Pg 15, Ln 12
Pg 16, Ln 1 - Pg 16, Ln 24
Pg 17, Ln 5 - Pg 17, Ln 16
Pg 18, Ln 7 - Pg 19, Ln 8
Pg 21, Ln 23 - Pg 22, Ln 3
Pg 23, Ln 9 - Ln 12 (ending with "were")
Pg 23, Ln 20 - Pg 24, Ln 14
Pg 25, Ln 4 - Pg 25, Ln 14
Pg 26, Ln 17 - Pg 27, Ln 16
Pg 28, Ln 18 - Pg 32, Ln
Pg 37, Ln 7 - Pg 38, Ln 13
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Pg 38, Ln 20 — Pg 39, Ln 9
Pg 40, Ln 11 — Pg 41, Ln 13
Pg 43, Ln 9 — Pg 44, Ln 24
Pg 45, Ln 4 — Pg 46, Ln 3
Pg 46, Ln 13 - Pg 49, Ln 25
Pg 51, Ln 4 — Pg 51, Ln 24
Pg 60, Ln 10 — 66, Ln 2
Pg 66, Ln 14 — Pg 66, Ln 20
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Reynoso, Hector, (Page 4:5 to 4:8)
4
5 Q. Can you state your name for the record, please?
6 A. My name is Hector Reynoso.
7 Q. Okay. And what is your occupation?
8 A. I am a pastor, a minister.
Reynoso, Hector, (Page 5:11 to 5:18)
5
11 Q. Okay. And tell us briefly your job history
12 since you finished seminary.
13 A. When I finished seminary I was not yet finished
14 with all the ordination process so I worked as sort of
15 an intern at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church in Galveston.
16 Q. Okay.
17 A. After that, in the year 2002 I was called to be
18 a pastor at El Principe de Paz in Mercedes, Texas.
Reynoso, Hector, (Page 6:3 to 6:21)
6
3 Q. And what denomination is that church a part of?
4 A. That church, when I was ordained, it was part
5 of the Presbyterian Church USA.
6 Q. Okay. And when you were ordained, were you
7 ordained into the Presbyterian Church USA?
8 A. Yes, I was.
9 Q. Okay. How long were you at El Principe de Paz?
10 A. I was there until -- I think it was February
11 2012.
12 Q. Okay. And how long were you there?
13 A. That's a total of nine years and 11 months.
14 Q. Okay. Can you tell us a little bit about the
15 history of El Principe de Paz? When was it formed?
16 A. Well, El Principe de Paz was originally a
17 mission of the Presbyterian Church of Mexico for
18 several years before it was established at around the
19 year 1912. In 1912, the Presbyterian Church of Mexico
20 organized it as a congregation, as a church, as an
21 official church.
3
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Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 8:2 to 8:10)
8
2 Q. Is El Principe de Paz still affiliated in any
3 way with the Mexican denomination, the Presbyterian
4 Church in Mexico?
5 A. Well, your question is if El Principe de Paz is
6 affiliated with the Presbyterian Church in Mexico?
7 Q. Right.
8 A. No, it's not, but El Principe de Paz is no
9 longer open. But during the time I was there, it was
10 not.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 12:19 to 13:6)
12
19 Q. What about the real property? Did the church
20 El Principe de Paz pay for the property? Did it pay
21 money to the presbytery to use the property, or how did
22 that work?
23 A. The congregation paid for the property and the
24 building. It took them several years, but they did it.
25 Q. When was that property paid off?
13
1 A. The congregation had several pictures with that
2 particular day when they finished paying and they were
3 burning the final notice. And I'm trying to think of
4 what year was that. It was probably in the 1970s.
5 Q. Before you came?
6 A. Oh, yeah. Way before I came, yes.
Reynoso, Hector, (Page 14:3 to 14:5)
14
3 Q. And was that church built and paid for before
4 the Presbyterian Church USA came into existence?
5 A. Yes.
Reynoso, Hector, (Page 15:1 to 15:12)
15
1 Q. Okay. Let me turn to discussion about
2 presbytery again. Were you on any committees for
4
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3 presbytery?
4 A. I served on the committee on ministry.
5 Q. And what is that?
6 A. Committee on ministry, its main function -- I
7 don't know if it was the original intention, but its
8 main function was supervision of churches through what
9 they had -- they called triennial visits. We were all
10 assigned a certain area and we had to make triennial
11 visits and see how the church was doing and report back
12 to the committee.
Reynoso, Hector, (Page 16:1 to 16:24)
16
1 Q. And what authority did the presbytery have to
2 take actions in those local churches?
3 A. In order to take action -- well, the committee
4 on ministry did not have the authority to take action
5 unless it was granted to them by the presbytery as a
6 whole. So the committee on ministry -- let's say, for
7 example, if an administrative commission is formed. It
8 needed to be approved by presbytery, not by the
9 committee on ministry.
10 Q. Okay. What's an administrative commission?
11 A. An administrative commission is a group that is
12 formed by presbytery in order to go to a church that
13 may be experiencing some difficulties, or sometimes an
14 administrative commission is also named to ordain a
15 pastor. So that's also -- that's a different case.
16 But most of the time what people
17 understand by administrative commission is when the
18 presbytery grants certain authority, certain powers, to
19 a group to go into the church, meet with the session,
20 and based on their assessment they come and they make
21 those recommendations to -- they make recommendations
22 to the presbytery as to the actions that need to be
23 taken. Then the presbytery votes whether to go that
24 route or not.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 17:5 to 17:16)
17
5 Q. Give us an example of the types of actions that
6 an administrative commission is authorized to take in a
7 church.
8 A. An administrative commission may be granted the
5
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9 power to go into a congregation, assess, and if they
10 consider that it's necessary to remove the pastor or
11 remove the session, the whole session, or close down
12 the church. They are given those powers. But they
13 need to be brought to presbytery for a vote.
14 Q. Can they take those actions without vote of the
15 presbytery?
16 A. No.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages18:7 to 19:8)
18
7 Q. Okay. While you were on the administrative
8 commission -- I'm sorry — on the committee on
9 ministry, were there any circumstances where the
10 presbytery sent in any kind of committee to take
11 actions either against a pastor or remove session
12 members or to close the church without using an
13 administrative commission?
14 A. There was this instance where something --
15 something was just out of order. And I had a friend, a
16 pastor in a church in Ingram, at the same time that I
17 was on the committee on ministry. And he told me that
18 a visiting team had been sent to his church. He did
19 not call it an administrative commission. He called it
20 something like a visiting team.
21. Being in the committee on ministry, I
22 looked for the minutes and I looked at every single
23 meeting to see whether anything was going to be
24 reported. And I was there until the end of 2011 and I
25 never saw anything reported about that administrative
19
1 commission -- it was not a commission. I'm sorry --
2 about the visiting team.
3 Q. And what is a visiting team?
4 A. Well, that's -- well, the first time that I
5 actually saw the term "visiting team" was on the
6 gracious dismissal policy of Mission Presbytery. But
7 that was after all of this visiting had taken place. I
8 did not know the term officially as a term used.
6
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Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 21:23 to 22:3)
21
23 Q. Now, after the visiting team was formed, did
24 they make -- come back and make recommendations to the
25 committee on ministry?
22
1 A. Yes.
2 Q. And what were those recommendations?
3 A. To present charges against Pastor Ray Tear.
Reynoso, Hector, (Page 23:9 to 23:12, ending with "were")
23
9 Q. Were charges brought against the pastor by the
10 presbytery?
11 A. That's around the time I left the denomination;
12 but my understanding was that they were.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 23:20 to 24:14)
23
20 Q. You said that was -- that took place after you
21 left the denomination. Yes, when did you leave the
22 PCUSA?
23 A. At the beginning of February of 2012.
24 Q. And what led you to leave? I'm talking about
25 personally first of all.
24
1 A. Well, there -- it can be divided in several
2 reasons, into two or three. Theological reasons, first
3 of all.
4 Q. Okay.
5 A. Secondly, due to several things that took place
6 in the last few years, I had -- I had no confidence, no
7 trust in the process nor in the leadership of
8 presbytery. I had seen and experienced many things
9 that led me to conclude that we needed to -- I needed
10 to break away from the denomination.
11 Q. Okay. Now, what about the church, El Principe
12 de Paz? Did the members of the church vote to -- have
13 a vote to leave the denomination?
14 A. They did.
7
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Reynoso, Hector, (Page 25:4 to 25:14)
25
4 Q. Can you tell me what this is?
5 A. Give me just a second, please.
6 Q. Sure.
7 A. This is a letter that we wrote.
8 Q. And you say "we." Who wrote it?
9 A. "We" meaning me, Pastor Tom Johnson, with the
10 -- with the participation of our sessions.
11 Q. Okay. And what was the purpose of this letter?
12 A. To inform elders, COM members, and staff of
13 Mission Presbytery, and the whole PCUSA that we had
14 left the PCUSA.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 26:17 to 27:16)
26
17 Q. I asked you about El Principe de Paz. Were you
18 helping at another church while you were employed?
19 A. Yes.
20 Q. What was the name of that church?
21 A. San Pablo Presbyterian Church.
22 Q. And where is that located? Where was that
23 located?
24 A. In the city of Brownsville.
25 Q. And how big a church was that, how many
27
1 members?
2 A. It was a small congregation. I cannot remember
3 the number of members.
4 Q. Did that congregation also vote to leave the
5 denomination?
6 A. Yes.
7 Q. Okay. And then you mentioned Pastor Tom
8 Johnson. Where was he? What church was he with?
9 A. He was a pastor at Getsemani Presbyterian
10 Church in San Benito.
11 Q. And did that church also vote to leave the
12 denomination?
13 A. Yes.
14 Q. Okay. So the three churches left, what, at the
15 same time; is that correct?
16 A. Yes.
8
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Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 28:18 to 32:6)
28
18 Q. Okay. Turn to No. 3, if you would, the
19 dismissal policy. Tell us first of all, what's a
20 dismissal policy and who prepared that?
21 A. After the year 2010, the general -- the general
22 assembly of the PCUSA, in the year 2010, approved to
23 send an amendment to the presbyteries which caused many
24 congregations to start leaving, preparing to leave, or
25 talk about leaving the denomination.
29
1 Q. And what was that proposal?
2 A. The proposal was called as Amendment 10-A.
3 That's how it was known. It had two things that many
4 of us just could not agree or subscribe to.
5 The first one was taking away certain key
6 words like "obedience" and "conformity" to scripture,
7 then putting in the word "guided" by scripture. So as
8 far as theology and our beliefs, what we saw was that
9 we always held the scriptures as our main authority,
10 and now officially the Book of Order was going to
11 change and they were not going to be our authority.
12 They were going to be only guides.
13 Q. Okay. Let me interrupt you there because I
14 want to break it down to just a question-answer format.
15 You mentioned that decision was taken by the general
16 assembly in 2010?
17 A. Yes.
18 Q. Were you present at that meeting?
19 A. I was present at that meeting as a commissioner
20 and also as a vice moderator -- vice moderator
21 candidate to the general assembly.
22 Q. And what is a vice moderator candidate to the
23 general assembly?
24 A. Every year or every time that the general
25 assembly meets, they elect a moderator for the assembly
30
1 and a vice moderator. That year, there were several
2 candidates for moderator, and sometime before, one of
3 the candidates called me to see if I would like to be a
4 vice moderator candidate.
5 Q. And when you say general assembly, this is the
6 national body -- I mean, the national forum where --
7 for the entire Presbyterian Church USA?
8 A. Yes.
9 Q. Okay.
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10 A. It's when all presbyteries send commissioners.
11 So it's the largest meeting of the PCUSA.
12 Q. And where was that held?
13 A. That year, it was St. Paul, St. Paul,
14 Minnesota.
15 Q. And did you speak at that meeting?
16 A. I did.
17 Q. Okay. And what did you speak about?
18 A. I spoke against this amendment, Amendment 10-A.
19 Q. Okay. Were you elected as vice moderator for
20 the general assembly?
21 A. No.
22 Q. Okay.
23 A. No, I was not.
24 Q. Can you tell us what happened -- well, is there
25 anything significant that happened at that general
31
1 assembly meeting that you attended that affected either
2 your decisions or the decisions of the churches to
3 change denominations?
4 A Yes. A certain tone had already -- a certain
5 tone of hostility had been developing in that
6 denomination, but this particular general assembly
7 multiplied it. I did not stop speaking about the
8 things that I saw, heard, and witnessed. And a few
9 things took place that -- well, soon after that, I was
10 visited at the church by the moderator of the committee
11 on ministry and by the consultant for church
12 development.
13 Q. And who was that?
14 A. That's Ruben Armendariz.
15 Q. And which title was -- did he have?
16 A. I think he was consultant of church
17 development.
18 Q. Okay.
19 A. They came to see me. Mr. Powell sent me an
20 e-mail that they were going to come visit me. I asked
21 him several times to please let me know why so that I
22 -- or the reason why so that I could prepare. I got no
23 reply until the day that they were coming, and he said
24 that they were going to talk to me about the things I
25 had been saying.
32
1 Well, they came to see me and they
2 strongly suggested that I stop speaking or that I
3 should resign from the committee on ministry.
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4 Q. Did you resign?
5 A. No, I did not resign. I saw it as intimidation
6 and as a violation of their position.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 37:7 to 38:13)
7 Q. Okay. What was your concern with this
8 dismissal policy?
9 A. I had two or three concerns. The first one is
10 that I had already seen it at work unofficially. A
11 visiting team had been formed under these conditions to
12 go to the Presbyterian church of Ingram, and I had seen
13 how detrimental it had been to the congregation, how it
14 had divided the congregation, how the pastor's
15 reputation had been dragged through the floor. So I
16 had seen it at work.
17 The second one was that it was closing all
18 the doors for a congregation to freely -- freely
19 assemble and talk about the issue. And to me that was
20 a violation of the freedom of assembly. If you read
21 this line here, "When the leadership of the presbytery
22 becomes aware that there's a conversation in the
23 session or congregation about leaving, visitation will
24 be offered to the session of a listening team appointed
25 by the moderator of presbytery," etc., etc. "Should
38
1 the congregation or its leadership refuse visits and
2 discussion with a listening team and/or the resolution
3 team, the counsel shall immediately recommend to the
4 presbytery the formation of an administrative
5 commission with the authority to act for the presbytery
6 in matters delegated to that administrative
7 commission."
8 Needless to say, many presbyteries right
9 now in the PCUSA have similar lines. And what do the
10 administrative commissions do? They come in, they
11 remove the pastor, they remove the session. You get
12 rid of the problem. They don't want to leave -- they
13 cannot leave anymore. And that, I saw this here.
11
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Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 38:20 — 39:9)
38
20 Q. Did El Principe de Paz go through -- when it
21 voted to leave the denomination, did it go through this
22 gracious dismissal process?
23 A. No.
24 Q. Did San Pablo Presbyterian Church go through
25 this gracious dismissal process?
39
1 A. No.
2 Q. And did --
3 A. Getsemani.
4 Q. -- Getsemani Presbyterian Church go through
5 this process?
6 A. No.
7 Q. Okay. And what was the reason the churches did
8 not want to go through this process?
9 A. Because we were aware of all these things.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 40:11 — 41:13)
40
11 Q. Okay. Now, looking at the bottom of the second
12 page of Exhibit 1, still under No. 3, the last three
13 words, it says, "We believe that this policy is in
14 direct violation of the United States Constitution,
15 which grants us freedom of speech, freedom of assembly,
16 and even freedom of religion, yet even more important
17 and above all this, it is not being Christ like."
18 You talked a little bit about the freedom
19 of speech. But what was the concern in this policy
20 that affected -- that led you to make this statement
21 about the freedom of speech?
22 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object; form.
23 A. We -- as a church, we are freely -- out of our
24 own free will, that liberty that we have here in this
25 country, we freely associated with the Presbyterian
41
1 Church USA at that time. No one forced us. And that
2 same freedom, we had to leave, and not -- it was not
3 just a little tantrum. The denomination had
4 deteriorated theologically to a point that it can no
5 longer -- for us orthodox Christians, it can no longer
6 be called Christian.
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7 So we cannot -- we cannot sit at the table
8 with people, for example, that believe in abortion. We
9 just can't. We see it as murder. We cannot possibly
10 sit together.
11 So as we have the freedom to be there, our
12 Constitution also grants us the freedom not to be there
13 because the beliefs of the denomination have changed.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 43:9 — 44:24)
43
9 Q. What's a resolution team?
10 A. As presented in the policy, the dismissal
11 policy, the resolution team was going to be like an
12 administrative commission but was going to have those
13 powers to recommend whether a church can leave or not
14 or the terms in which a church could leave.
15 Q. Do you know of any situations where the -- I
16 forgot the name of the committee you just mentioned --
17 the visiting team took some sort of action to remove a
18 pastor in Mission Presbytery?
19 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object; form.
20 A. Well, except for the case in Ingram, in other
21 cases it was, as I remember, an administrative
22 commission that went in to either close a church or
23 remove the session or -- I can remember the First
24 Church of Edinburg. The First Presbyterian Church of
25 Edinburg, an administrative commission went in there.
44
'I They were having problems with the pastor.
2 Q. I'm sorry. Who is "they"? Who was having
3 problems with the pastor?
4 A. That's a good question. Some members of the
5 session were having problems with the pastor, but it
6 had grown -- the problems had grown and there's -- a
7 lot of stuff went on there. I think there were
8 lawsuits or whatever.
9 But at the end the presbytery -- or the
10 administrative commission recommended to close the
11 congregation. The members did not want for the church
12 to close. They went to presbytery and they pretty much
13 begged for presbytery not to close the church, but that
14 was the recommendation of the administrative commission
15 and presbytery voted and they closed the church and
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16 sold it.
17 Q. And that was which church?
18 A. First Presbyterian Church of Edinburg.
19 Q. And when did that happen?
20 A. Oh, it could have been perhaps 2009, something
21 like that.
22 Q. Okay. Was that while you were on the committee
23 on ministry?
24 A. Yes.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 45:4 to 46:3)
45
4 Q. Okay, Reverend Reynoso, before the break we
5 were talking about Exhibit 1. I want to go back to
6 that exhibit and look at No. 4 where it says, "Historic
7 decline of Hispanic ministries in Mission Presbytery."
8 You've got the document in front of you, but what was
9 the concern that you had and that your churches had
10 about Hispanic ministries in Mission Presbytery?
11 A. I'm sorry. I'm kind of reading a little bit
12 Q. Okay.
13 A. Hispanic ministries started way before the
14 1900s. They grew for a while. We had something called
15 the Texas-Mexican Presbytery. That's probably the
16 strongest part of the history of the ministry.
17 But since around 1950 that the Texas -- or
18 the Tex-Mex presbytery was closed, Hispanic churches
19 began to die off little by little. Little by little,
20 one after another just closed, closed, closed. And
21 there was a good number at the time of the -- at some
22 point there were about 50 churches, established
23 congregations, plus many, many preaching points, but
24 now we were down to about 11 at the time we left, I
25 think, and --
46
1 Q. Was that before -- was that 11 including your
2 churches?
3 A. Including ours, yeah.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 46:13 to 49:25)
46
13 Q. Okay. Let me ask you about leaving. What was
14 the manner in which your churches voted to leave the
14
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15 denomination?
16 A. Are you talking about the actual meeting?
17 Q. No. You didn't go through the gracious
18 dismissal process.
19 A. Okay.
20 Q. How -- is there a term for how y'all left the
21 denomination or what process you used?
22 A. Oh, we called it -- or it's usually called
23 disaffiliation.
24 Q. Okay.
25 A. Or renouncing jurisdiction.
47
1 Q. All right. When you disaffiliate, is that --
2 tell us -- tell us what it means to disaffiliate.
3 A. To disaffiliate is to -- when a congregation
4 has a congregation meeting, duly called congregation
5 meeting, and votes to disaffiliate from the
6 denomination, in contrast to the dismissal policy that
7 goes through a whole process guided by a presbytery.
8 Q. Look at the last paragraph on Exhibit 1. The
9 third page, there's a line where it says, "We lovingly
10 declare" -- and read that sentence for us.
11 A. "We lovingly declare that we are no longer
12 under the jurisdiction of the PCUSA."
13 Q. And what does that mean?
14 A. Once we took our vote, we were no longer under
15 the authority or leadership or supervision or guidance
16 of the Presbyterian Church of the United States.
17 Q. Okay. Does that include the pastors?
18 A. That included the pastors, the sessions, the
19 congregation.
20 Q. And then read the next two sentence -- next two
21 sentences.
22 A. "Yet in no way do we seek to be disobedient to
23 the Lord and to His word. We understand that the
24 property clause in the Book of Order of the PCUSA makes
25 us hold in trust our property, where we worship and
48
1 serve, for the PCUSA."
2 Q. And then read the next two sentences -- well,
3 read the rest of that paragraph.
4 A. "No good argument can remove that clause.
5 Therefore, we appeal to your sense of mercy and implore
6 of you to dig deep within your hearts and allow us to
7 keep our properties, our assets and bank accounts. We
8 are not rich churches, we do not have a high income, we
15
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9 do not have big bank accounts, and we are all located
10 in low-income neighborhoods in two of the poorest
11 counties of the United States. So we kindly implore,
12 for the sake of the extension of God's kingdom, that
13 you will let us go with the little that we have so that
14 we may continue" --
15 Q. Let me finish it. "To let His light shine in
16 our respective neighborhoods."
17 I'm going to read the next paragraph,
18 which says, "Nevertheless, if you decide that it is
19 important for you to keep our buildings and our
20 finances, please note that we stand ready to hand
21 everything over to you. Our convictions have led us to
22 make a stand for Christ and the faith of the church,
23 not the properties."
24 Did I read that correctly?
25 A. Yes.
49
1 Q. Did presbytery allow your church El Principe de
2 Paz and San Pablo to retain any of its -- of the
3 property that the congregation had used?
4 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object -- object; form.
5 A. No.
6 MR. WEST: What's the objection?
7 MR. DE LA FUENTE: They were no longer
8 those churches at that time.
9 MR. WEST: I said the congregations.
10 Q. You can answer.
11 A. We received a letter to get out of the
12 building. The pastors received a letter to get out of
13 the building. We had a day or two. I can't remember.
14 The congregation stood with us. They left
15 with us. Then we started -- we received letters or
16 e-mails, not -- asking to return everything, the bank
17 accounts, and we did.
18 (Reynoso Exhibit No. 2 marked)
19 Q. Let me hand you what I've marked -- excuse me
20 -- Exhibit 2. Is this the letter that you received
21 from presbytery after you sent the letter marked as
22 Exhibit 1?
23 A. Yes, this is the one.
24 Q. And what's the date on this letter?
25 A. February 13, 2012.
16
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Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 51:4 — 51:24)
51
4 Q. Okay. So you received this letter from Mission
5 Presbytery saying, "No later than Friday, February 16,
6 2012, remove your personal items and turn in all church
7 keys to the COM regional chair, Anna Bohart."
8 Did you meet with Anna Bohart?
9 A. Yes, I did.
10 Q. Did you turn in your personal items to -- I
11 mean, I'm sorry, did you remove your personal items?
12 A. Yes, I did.
13 Q. And what did those consist of?
14 A. Mainly books and my laptop.
15 Q. Okay. And was that a laptop you bought or was
16 that --
17 A. Yeah.
18 Q. Okay. And then did you give her the keys to
19 the church?
20 A. Yes.
21 Q. Okay. And did you do that on February 16th, or
22 was it a little later?
23 A. No, it was on that date I -- we signed -- we
24 signed for it.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 60:10 to 66:2)
60
10 Q. Okay. When you left PCUSA, you were under the
11 Evangelical Presbyterian Church at that point; is that
12 correct? You started a new congregation --
13 A. That's --
14 Q. -- I mean, a new church under the Evangelical
15 Presbyterian Church; is that what you said earlier?
16 A. Yes.
17 Q. Okay. Where did the church meet then?
18 A. We -- when we left, we met at -- well, we're
19 still meeting at the Lutheran church.
20 Q. Do you pay rent to use --
21 A. We pay.
22 Q. -- their building?
23 A. Yes.
24 Q. Okay. And how is your salary paid?
25 A. Through the church. The church pays me.
61
17
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1 Q. Okay. The church members?
2 A. The church, you know, through their tithes and
3 offerings, they pay my salary.
4 Q. And did the church set up new bank accounts?
5 A. Yes.
6 Q. And where were those bank accounts set up?
7 A. Well, at first they were in the same bank as --
8 the same bank as we had before.
9 Q. Okay. And where did the funds in those
10 accounts for the new church come from?
11 A. They came from -- we started putting money into
12 that new account after we had disaffiliated.
13 Q. Okay. Why did you move your account from --
14 well, first of all, what was the name of the new church
15 under the Evangelical Presbyterian Church?
16 A. At first we continued calling ourselves El
17 Principe de Paz EPC, I think.
18 Q. So it was the same name of the church but EPC
19 because of the new denomination?
20 A. Yes. So it was -- the name of the other church
21 was actually Iglesia Presbiteriana El Principe de Paz,
22 so we just kept El Principe de Paz EPC.
23 Q. Okay. And is that how your bank account was
24 set up?
25 A. Yes.
62
1 Q. Okay. Why did you move that account to another
2 bank?
3 A. The bank made a mistake and sent our new
4 statement to the post office of El Principe de Paz
5 PCUSA even though we had gone to the bank and changed
6 the address and everything. But for whatever computer
7 glitch, whatever they -- whatever happened, they sent
8 that to El Principe de Paz in the PCUSA.
9 And next thing we know, two members, as we
10 understand, two members representing Mission Presbytery
11 -- one of them was Anna Bohart and somebody else --
12 they went to the bank with the information of the new
13 account that we had now in the EPC and they tried to
14 take out the money.
15 And when they tried to take out the money,
16 the bank asked them for the PIN number, I think, and
17 they provided the wrong one. And the bank said, "This
18 is wrong so we're freezing this account" And they
19 left us without funds. That's -- the little we had,
20 was there.
18
6298378.1
21 Q. About how much was there?
22 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object to
23 responsiveness.
24 A. It wasn't much. Maybe at the -- maybe
25 somewhere around $2,000, but -- it may not be much to
63
1 anybody else, but for us it's 100 percent of everything
2 we had.
3 Q. Was that the bank account that was used to pay
4 your rent at the Lutheran church?
5 A. Yes.
6 Q. Was that the bank account that was used to pay
7 your salary?
8 A. Yes.
9 Q. How long was that bank account frozen?
10 A. I cannot remember. Maybe a week or more.
11 Q. Did the bank eventually lift that freeze or the
12 hold on the account?
13 A. After we had the help of a lawyer, yes, they
14 did.
15 Q. Okay.
16 (Reynoso Exhibit No. 5 marked)
17 Q. I'll hand you what's been marked as Exhibit 5.
18 Can you tell me what this is?
19 A. Allow me just a second, please.
20 Q. Sure.
21 A. This is what is called an advisory opinion
22 coming from the general assembly in order to implement
23 the trust clause in the PCUSA.
24 Q. Okay. And do you know where -- how you
25 received this? Did you receive this document?
64
1 A. I received it or I even -- or I researched it
2 or somehow I found it
3 Q. Okay. And do you know what this document does?
4 What's an advisory opinion?
5 A. An advisory opinion is -- coming from the
6 general assembly, is a very strong -- very strong
7 suggestion to presbyteries on how to handle the trust
8 clause, the property of the churches.
9 Q. Okay. Would you turn to the third page back
10 where it says letter D? Let me -- okay, yeah, turn to
11 that
12 First of all, what is the trust clause
13 that you refer to?
14 A. When the PCUSA was started in 1983, a trust
19
6298378.1
15 clause was inserted in the Book of Order saying that
16 all congregations of the Presbyterian church hold their
17 property in trust for the denomination.
18 Many congregations were allowed exceptions
19 at the time, but not all took them. But since then,
20 since 1983, it's been part of the PCUSA, which was
21 started in 1983.
22 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object to
23 responsiveness.
24 Q. Look at the third page back, and it says letter
25 D. Can you read that heading?
65
1 A. "Presbyteries are responsible for enforcing the
2 trust clause." Do you want me to keep reading?
3 Q. No, it's kind of long. What's your
4 understanding of what presbytery's role was in terms of
5 enforcing the trust clause?
6 A. Well, this particular opinion, again, based on
7 everything that we had experienced and was going on in
8 the whole denomination, it was like the denomination
9 saying, "We are not going to let you go. Anyone can be
10 here but no one can go." You know, "Anyone can come in
11 here" -- that's what they're proclaiming. "We're
12 inclusive. Everybody come in here, but we just won't
13 let you go."
14 And that -- to me, that's what this
15 opinion does. It strengthens that position, that
16 position in presbyteries, and it creates more
17 hostility.
18 Q. How would it — how does the presbytery enforce
19 a trust clause? What actions can it take to enforce
20 that provision?
21 A. Well —
22 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object, form.
23 A. — allow me to think about this for a moment.
24 Through their dismissal policies
25 Q. Can they use the administrative commissions to
66
1 take action on the trust clause?
2 A. Definitely.
Reynoso, Hector, (Pages 66:14 to 66:20)
66
14 Q. Yeah, can a listening team be used to enforce a
20
6298378.1
15 trust clause?
16 MR. DE LA FUENTE: Object; form.
17 A. Based on the dismissal policy of Mission
18 Presbytery, yes. That listening team will become the
19 -- what do they call it -- the -- the following step,
20 whatever the name of the team was.
21
6298378.1
CAUSE NO. 2015-CI-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v. 73RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MISSION PRESBYTERY,
Defendants. § BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Deposition Designations from the June 16, 2015
Deposition of Thomas Crandall Johnson
Pg 4, Ln 5 Pg 4, Ln 10
Pg 5, Ln 25 - Pg 6, Ln 3
Pg 7, Ln 2 — Pg 8, Ln 12
Pg 10, Ln 13 — Pg 10, Ln 23
Pg 12, Ln 4 — Pg 13, Ln 24
Pg 15, Ln 12 — Pg 15, Ln 23
Pg 16, Ln 23 — Pg 17, Ln 13
Pg 18, Ln 15 — Pg 19, Ln 13
Pg 23, Ln 24 — Pg 24, Ln 5
Pg 25, Ln 23 — Pg 26, Ln 3
Pg 37, Ln 13 — Pg 37, Ln 22
Pg 41, Ln 12 to Pg 42, Ln 4
1
6298086.1
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 4:5 to 4:10)
4
5 Q. Would you state your name for the record,
6 please?
7 A. My name is Thomas Crandall Johnson.
8 Q. And how are you employed?
9 A. I'm employed as a pastor of San Benito
10 Presbyterian Church, EPC, San Benito, Texas.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 5:25 to 6:3)
5
25 Q. Okay. Was it called San Benito Presbyterian
6
1 Church at that time?
2 A. No. At that time it was Iglesia Presbiteriana
3 Getsemani.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 7:2 to 8:12)
7
2 Q. Okay. When did Iglesia Presbiteriana Getsemani
3 become part of a different denomination?
4 A. There are three parts to this, and name changes
5 that happened along the way. 1950s, it changed to
6 Second Presbyterian Church. And then it was changed in
7 about '67 to Iglesia Presbiteriana Getsemani. And then
8 when I was there we changed it to Iglesia Presbiteriana
9 Getsemani of San Benito. And so during the course of
10 the time, it was not incorporated until I got there.
11 It was incorporated. And we wrote the articles of
12 incorporation and the other data. And so it moved from
13 the Presbyterian Church of Mexico probably to --then
14 it was PCUS or UPUSA. I can't remember right now. I
15 think it was in the southern branch and -- okay, it was
16 the southern branch.
2
6298086.1
17 Q. Okay. And when did it become part of the
18 PCUSA?
19 A. That happened in 1983.
20 Q. And so it was already part of PCUSA when
21 you —
22 A. Yes.
23 -- became pastor there?
24 That's correct.
25 Q. Okay. Now, you left the denomination at some
8
1 point, correct?
2 A. Yes, that is correct.
3 Q. In what year did you leave?
4 A. We left the PCUSA in the year 2012 -- well,
5 excuse me. I'm sorry. I left the PCUSA in the year
6 2012.
7 Q. Okay.
8 A. And if you're saying the "you," other
9 parishioners, yes, that is correct.
10 Q. So did the parishioners leave Getsemani at the
11 same time that you did?
12 A. Yes.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 10:13 to 10:23)
10
13 Q. Okay. Let me talk to you now about the
14 membership of Iglesia Presbiteriana Getsemani. Were
15 there discussions in advance of the vote to leave about
16 leaving the denomination?
17 A. Yeah. When I wasn't -- yes. When I was not
18 there, I was at First Presbyterian Church in La Feria.
19 I was carrying on a congregational meeting there. They
20 had celebrated a townhouse a town hall meeting, and
21 several of the elders gathered the people during Sunday
22 school class and they said they were they wanted to
23 leave.
3
6298086.1
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 12:4 to 13:24)
12
4 Q. What was your understanding of the process of
5 having discussions within a church if it wanted to
6 consider changing denominations?
7 A. Well, back when Brother John Davenport was a
8 pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Edinburg, I was
9 part of an administrative group called the Listening
10 Team, an administrative commission where we had the
11 power of being able to take original jurisdiction.
12 So we could go and listen. We were going
13 to listen on a Saturday and then after that, a couple
14 of days later, we were going to meet with the session.
15 But we had the right to decide what was done with the
16 property, what was done with the pastor, if he would
17 stay or go, and we had the right to make use of any
18 funds that they had. And we looked at all the funds
19 that were available and we examined everything that
20 they had right there in order to stand with whatever
21 decision needed to be made.
22 Q. And that was called a Listening Team?
23 A. Yes, it's a Listening Team with the power of
24 original jurisdiction, they call it. That's a legal
25 term.
13
1 Q. Who else was on that Listening Team with you?
2 A. Reverend Justin Jones, Reverend Kathy Trevino,
3 and two elders. I can't remember where they were from.
4 I think they were from McAllen, the elders from
5 McAllen, because they're the closer ones.
6 We were the first administrative action
7 team, I think, of two or three of them that were there.
8 Q. Was there any kind of training by Mission
9 Presbytery as to what a Listening Team could or could
10 not do, what their functions were?
11 A. Maybe 20 minutes. So, yeah.
4
6298086.1
12 Q. Okay. And what were you told by Mission
13 Presbytery?
14 A. That we could do anything that we wanted there,
15 pretty much, but first -- the first day is to go listen
16 to everybody. And so we went up and were there at the
17 church and -- we went up on a Saturday, and whoever
18 wanted to talk to us could come and talk to us.
19 a And which church --
20 A. And so we spoke --
21 Q. I'm sorry.
22 A. First Presbyterian Church in Edinburg.
23 Q. Okay. And what year was that?
24 A. I believe it was about 2006/2007.
Johnson, Thomas, (Page 15:12 to 15:23)
15
12 Q. Were property issues discussed by the Listening
13 Team?
14 A. We had -- we wanted a list of all the
15 properties, so, yes, all the properties were listed and
16 we had knowledge of the properties; the manse, the
17 church building, and an additional property that they
18 had. And so all -- everything that they had, and the
19 accounts. We went over a list of all the accounts that
20 they had. They had one account for memorizing all the
21 books of the Bible. They had several different
22 accounts that they had there besides a general fund and
23 CDs.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 16:23 to 17:13)
16
23 Q. Now, did the Listening Team have to get
24 approval from anyone else to take these actions or did
25 it take these actions on its own authority?
17
1 A. Its own authority, because we were granted --
5
6298086.1
2 we were granted original jurisdiction.
3 Q. And what does that mean?
4 A. That means that we could decide with respect to
5 property, we could decide with respect to bank
6 accounts, and we could decide if that session kept on
7 as session, and also if that pastor stayed on. So
8 original jurisdiction basically is that.
9 So, of course, we would report to
10 presbytery, but we would have to make the decisions.
11 In other words, these committees are getting together
12 so that the whole presbytery doesn't have to come down
13 and meet right there and the whole presbytery do that.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 18:15 to 19:13)
18
15 Q. Let me go back now to the church at which you
16 were the pastor, Iglesia Presbiteriana Getsemani. At
17 some point there were discussions -- you talked about
18 this earlier -- about leaving the denomination that
19 took place with your congregation. As a result of
20 those discussions -- well, what happened after those
21 discussions took place?
22 A. Prior to that and along the way there's been
23 several conversations. For example, one conversation
24 that took place was at El Principe de Paz in Mercedes,
25 where we had a meeting just to talk about what it means
19
1 to be different than the Mission Presbytery that we
2 currently had. And so we were talking about overlaying
3 presbyteries. We were talking about different
4 divisions of Mission Presbytery.
5 And as we were talking to different
6 divisions of the presbytery superimposing, I just said,
7 "Well, may as well listen and find out what's going on
8 and what the ideas are."
9 So I went to El Principe de Paz and I
10 heard the presentations there, and, lo and behold, I
6
6298086.1
11 got an e-mail that said, "You're not supposed to be
12 meeting here because the denomination hasn't approved
13 having this particular meeting."
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 23:24 to 24:5)
23
24 Q. Now, at Getsemani, while you were pastor, did
25 the church receive any funds from presbytery?
24
1 A. No, not as such. In 1956 -- there's a placard
2 on the wall there of the church, and I believe it's
3 1956, where the Synod of the Son acknowledges that from
4 this point forward, Iglesia Presbiteriana Getsemani
5 will receive no further funds from the presbytery.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 25:23 to 26:3)
25
23 Q. And did it have any provision in deeds, as far
24 as you know, that that property was held for the
25 benefit of the PCUSA?
26
1 A. No. They didn't have anything in the bylaws,
2 so there's no -- there's nothing written to the benefit
3 of anybody.
Johnson, Thomas, (Page 37:13 to 37:22)
37
13 Q. While you were a member of Mission Presbytery,
14 are you aware of any other churches where either an
15 administrative commission or a listening committee came
16 in and took action with regard to a pastor?
17 A. Apart from the one I did at the First
7
6298086.1
18 Presbyterian Church here in --
19 Q. Yes, right.
20 A. Yes, and also with Pastor -- he was in the
21 military, he was a marine, and he was a teacher in
22 Weslaco. I can't remember his name, but, yeah.
Johnson, Thomas, (Pages 41:12 to 42:4)
41
12 Q. Why did you and the members decide not to go
13 thorugh the Gracious Dismissal process?
14 A. It was very complicated. We would get — if a
15 Listening Team were to come — and I was on a Listening
16 Team. If a Listening Team were to come, it would
17 listen to the persons and give strength to some and
18 others, no, and it would just be a thing of putting
19 people into a quandary, a conundrum between the sword
20 and the wall — or how do you say that — a rock and a
21 hard place, I guess. I don't know how that saying is.
22 But it would be very difficult, make it more difficult
23 than it was.
24 And, this way, the people would not have a
25 fight on their hands over the things that were there or
42
1 anything. It would be just they left, and it's easiest
2 to mend the relationship so we can have — a cousin can
3 talk to the cousin or a brother can talk to another
4 brother. And so it was not desired to hurt anybody.
8
6298D86.1
Exhibit J
2015-CI-07858
073RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO
DATE FILED) 05/12/2015
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO,
Plaintiff,
v. JUDICIAL DISTRICT
MISSION PRESBYTERY,
Defendants. BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER
First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio's ("FPC") has filed a Verified Original
Petition for Declaratory Judgment and Application for Temporary Restraining Order and
Temporary and Permanent Injunction ("Petition"). After considering FPC's verified pleading
and argument of counsel, the Court fmds that FPC has established the probability of its right
to the requested relief under the neutral principle factors set forth by the Texas Supreme Court
in Masterson v. Diocese of Nw. Texas, 422 S.W.3d 594 (Tex. 2013); Windwood Presbyterian
Church, Inc. v. Presbyterian Church (USA.), 438 S.W.3d. 597 (Tex. App—Houston [1st
Dist.] 2014). Based upon the property deeds of FPC, the terms of its corporate charter, the
provisions of the denominational constitution, and the generally applicable provisions of
Texas law, FPC has demonstrated the likelihood of its complete and exclusive ownership of
any property held in its name.
The Court fmds that it clearly appears that Mission Presbytery ("Presbytery") has the
means at its disposal to cause immediate and irreparable injury, loss or damage to FPC in
connection with FPC filing this action and that, if the Court does not issue the Temporary
Restraining Order, FPC will be irreparably injured because Presbytery will proceed to form an
Administrative Commission to seize control of FPC property or its operations or both. Such
conduct by Presbytery would cause immediate damage to the funding of FPC's charities,
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER PAGE 1
ministries, and scholarships and render FPC without an adequate remedy at law in that an
award of damages would not adequately compensate FPC for the resulting harm to its ability
to conduct its ministries.
The Court finds that the equities favor the issuance of this Temporary Restraining
Order and that this Temporary Restraining Order is necessary to preserve the status quo
between the parties pending a hearing on FPC's request for a temporary injunction.
The Court further finds that this Temporary Restraining Order is properly granted
without notice to Presbytery because of Presbytery's incentive, ability and directions from the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to immediately form such an Administrative Commission and
endeavor to seize control of FPC's operations.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that the requested Temporary Restraining Order be
and is hereby issued against Mission Presbytery its officers, agents, employees, and counsel,
and any persons or entities in active concert or participation with Presbytery, or acting by or
through Presbytery or on its behalf or in its stead: This Temporary Restraining Order
pertains to all Property held by or for First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio, both
immovable (real) together with all buildings and improvements thereon, and movable
(personal), whether corporeal or incorporeal, wherever located, whether held by, for the
benefit of, or in the name of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio (collectively
"Property"), which real Property is more particularly described in Exhibit 1 to the Petition.
Presbytery is restrained from filing any documents in the mortgage and conveyance records
of Bexar County to assert ownership, use or control, or rights to determine ownership, use or
control, to any real Property titled in the name of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio
or to assert a trust on behalf of Presbytery or other affiliated third party over real Property
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER PAGE 2
titled in the name of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio or otherwise held by or
for First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio the effect of which would be to place a cloud
on the title of said real Property, or otherwise interfere with or disturb Plaintiff's ownership,
use, control, or disposition of Plaintiff's Property, or interfere with Plaintiff's right to
determine the ownership, use, control, or disposition of Property held by or for First
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio or held in the possession of, control of, or owned by,
for the benefit of, or titled in the name of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that Mission Presbytery, and any persons or entities in
active concert or participation with it, on its behalf or in its stead, whether acting directly
or indirectly, are temporarily restrained from taking any action that could affect the
property rights of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio, including but not limited to:
(1). Filing any documents in the mortgage and conveyance records in Bexar
County, or any County where FPC's property is located, the effect of which
would be to place a cloud on the title of any property titled in the name of
plaintiff;
(2) Otherwise taking any action to claim or assert ownership, use, or control of
the Personal and Real Property, or a right to determine ownership, use or
control of the Personal and Real Property, in the possession or control of,
owned by, titled in the name of or held for the benefit of First Presbyterian
Church of San Antonio;
(3) Asserting any rights to the property of First Presbyterian Church of San
Antonio, including but not limited to seeking to change the locks of the
church, initiating, any disciplinary action against the ministers or members of
the church, appointing an administrative commission with authority to
assume "original jurisdiction" over FPC's local governance and control of
local property possessed by or titled in the name of First Presbyterian Church
of San Antonio or First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio Foundation, or
otherwise interfering, by dissolution or otherwise, in any way with the
property-related rights and responsibilities of the employees of FPC, the
governing body of FPC (the session), its congregation, or the governing body
of its local church corporation FPC (the board of trustees);
(4) Contacting any financial institution to assert a claim of interest in any account,
fund, stock or other asset held in the name or for the benefit of First
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER PAGE 3
Presbyterian Church of San Antonio or First Presbyterian Church of San
Antonio Foundation; or
(5) Otherwise interfering with the normal duties and responsibilities of the
officers, ministers, and employees of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio
or the First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio Foundation or any designees
thereof in any way that pertains to the ownership, control, use or disposition of
the Real and Personal Property held by, for or in the name of First Presbyterian
of San Antonio.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that nothing in this Temporary Restraining Order
shall preclude Presbytery from taking ecclesiastical action for non-pretextual ecclesiastical
cause that is unrelated to this litigation or any property issue raised in, prompted by, related
to, or affecting the ownership, control, use, or disposition of the Personal or Real Property
held by, for or in the name of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the clerk is to issue notice to Defendant that
the hearing on Plaintiff's application for a temporary injunction is set before the Presiding
-\ \I-- Pm
District Court of Bexar County, Texas for the 1.0 day of rt\pn , 2015? The purpose of the
hearing shall be to determine whether this temporary restraining order should be made a
temporary injunction pending a final adjudication of rights by this Court.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that this Temporary Restraining Order shall not be
effective unless and until Plaintiff executes and files with the clerk a bond in the amount of
Five_ inunasi-A dollars ($ SCO ).
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that this Temporary Restraining Order shall expire
fourteen days from the date it is entered, or until further order of this Court.
SIGNED this 1-2_ day of in/Al , 2015, at 11:1(0A.M.
r(
JUDGE PRESIDING
I PAGE 4
TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER
Exhibit K
MEMME
201SC/0785$ -D073 •
CAUSE NO. 2 15-0-07858
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, DUCAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant,
v.
ED BONDURANT, et. at,
Intervenors. 73RD JUDICIAL DISTRICT
ORDER DENYING PLAINTIFF'S APPLICATION FOR TEMPORARY INJUNCTION
CAME TO BE HEARD parties in the above-styled and numbered cause on this day,
August 26, 2015, on Plaintiffs Application for Temporary Injunction against Mission
Presbytery. After considering each of the parties' pleadings, the evidence presented, the parties'
arguments and the applicable law, the Court denied Plaintiffs Application for Temporary
Injunction. The temporary restraining order issued in this matter May 12, 2015, is dissolved and
otherwise is of no force or effect.
IT IS HEREBY ORDERED by the Court that Plaintiffs Application for Temporary
Injunction is DENIED.
SIGNED this ) 2_ day of SeSeniber,
AS
O 2015.
1111 Pant11 III
2015CI07858 -0073
CAUSE NO, 2015-a-07858
FIRST :PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF § IN' THE DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO,
Plaintiff;
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, BEXAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant
v.
ED BONDURANT, et al.,
731W JUDICIAL DISTRICT
Intervenors
ORDER DENYING DEFENDANT'S AND INTERVENORS'
APPLICATION FOR TEMPORARY INJUNCTION
Came on to be considered Defendant Mission Presbytery and Intervenors'
Application for Temporary Injunction. Alter considering the Defendant and Intervenors'
Application, the responses in opposition, any further replies or responsive pleadings, the
pleadings and discovery on file, the evidence presented, the record, and the arguments of
counsel, if any, the Court finds that the Defendant Mission Presbytery and Intervenors'
Application for Temporary Injunction should be DENIED.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Defendant Mission Presbytery's and
Intervenors' Application for Temporary Injunction is DENIED.
STONED on the VL- day of C1C.1-08ea_ 2015
JUDGE PRES ii. ING
JUD&E`%1/4110TES 2015CI071158 -P00052
CAUSE NO.: 2015C107858 COURT: 073 DATE/TIME: 08/26/2015 09, ODAM
SETTING COURT: 109
STYLE: FIRSTPRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO
VS. MISSION PRESBYTERIAN
DISCOVERY LEVEL 3
ATTORNEY(S) FOR CASE: nnn „-
DAVID WEN Kg..-101 .1001b JOSE DE LA ELIENTEL.412•*22.. Grote
KENT KRAUSE le 11.44,160.6661 KEITH KENDALL 1--11
40•61M•COLI I
JAMES ANTHONY LLOYD LUNCEFORD
TYPE OF MOTION OR APPLICATION:
NON-JURY RESET ON TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER *.PER RULE 11**
CONFERRING ESTIMATE HEARING TIME
AGREED ORDER ASSIGNED COURT
DROP RECORD TAKEN
INTERPRETER RESET DATE TIME
C,SPA-aQ
DATE OF NOTES a /2& a" 27/ 20: ,` JUDGE INITIALS
RECORD TAKEN
Letitia "Tiel-r Moncivais
191 VIPf114a y0
210/335-2521
16/01“-- -rtitfraputr, 06/wilt-) 704sao Th_ii„Q (2.)
FIMMI d N a T MinA1NR-N2 &Mak- , Ake( cilciv-e,
1 linot 40-tlifra. I imp; eVet.1frAct L
a i
baCCU Ctaiark 1-
°-11 +11.:°
PROPERTY OF BEXAR COUNTY DISTRICT CLERK'S OFFICE (0K510A)
Exhibit "B"
At an Open Stated Meeting on October 23, 2015, at Presbyterian Pan American School in
Kingsville, Texas, Mission Presbytery approved the following action by an overwhelming
majority:
On October 12, 2015, the Session of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio, Texas, called a
congregational meeting to follow the morning service of worship on Sunday, November 1, 2015, for
the following purposes:
1. "That First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, terminate our voluntary affiliationwith the
Presbyterian Church (U.SA);
2. That First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, petition a Covenant Order of Evangelical
Presbyterians for voluntary affiliation, and so affiliate, if approved;
3. That First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, reaffirm and ratify its previous Elders and
Deacons, both active and those on rotation; the officer nominating committee; and the
terms of call of all ordained staff wishing to remain employed by First Presbyterian Church,
San Antonio."
The stated purposes of this congregational meeting are contrary to the provisions of the
Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) [Book of Order, G-1.0503].
The Session of First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, has indicated its unwillingness to utilize the
Gracious Separation Process approved by Mission Presbytery, or any form or revision of that
process.
On October 13, 2015, Judge John Gabriel of the 131st District Court ofDexar County, State of Texas,
denied the petition of First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, for a Permanent Injunction against
the Presbytery, and set aside the Temporary Restraining Order that had been granted to First
Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, on May 12, 2015, enjoining the Presbytery from taking any
ecclesiastical action against the church that could be construed by the court to interfere with the
church's holding title to its property.
Mission Presbytery has a deep pastoral concern for this congregation and its members and
ministers, and for the relationships that bind us together in Christ
Therefore, be it resolved that Mission Presbytery, acting in Stated Meeting on October 23, 2015,
does hereby declare that as the congregation of First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, is poised to
conduct a vote in congregational meeting that is in violation of the provisions of the Constitution of
the Presbyterian Church [U.S.A.), Mission Presbytery does hereby authorize the appointment, by
vote of the Presbytery, of an Administrative Commission [G-3.0109b1 to intervene on its behalf with
First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, and its Session, with the following purposes and authority:
L To take all necessary steps, if ft becomes evident that the church is in "schism," to discern
the "true church" within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in this matter [G-4,0207];
2. To have access to all church records [G-3.0107], including but notlimited to: membership
rolls, minutes of Session and all boards and committees, minutes of congregational
meetings, financial records, the church website, membership directories, newsletters, and
materials distributed for sessional or congregational information;
3. To have access to relevant records having to do with corporate officers, corporate articles,
bylaws, and/or charters, including changes to any of these during the last 10 years IG-
3.0108];
4. To determine, on behalf of presbytery, whether proceedings have been faithful to the
mission of the whole Church, and that lawful injunctions of higher councils have been
obeyed [G-3.0108a]; and, if necessary, to direct that corrective action be taken if matters are
determined to be out of compliance with the Constitution [G-3.0108c];
5. If it becomes necessary, to assume original jurisdiction over the Session [G-3.0303e], with
full authority and power to (a) provide for worship, sacraments, and continuing pastoral
care of all members of the congregation, in the spirit of the Gospel of Christ; (b) to receive
and act on requests from members to be transferred or deleted from the rolls; (c) to have
authority to call necessary congregational meetings, and to obtain current and accurate
membership lists from the church for this purpose;
6. To have authority to dissolve pastoral relationships, both temporary and installed, fully
observing the due process requirements of the Constitution (G-2,0901ff.];
7. To have authority to negotiate terms for the dismissal of the congregation if itbecomes
evident that a sufficient majority of the active membership desires to be dismissed to
another Reformed denomination with which the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is in
communion.
The Administrative Commission's authority is restricted in the following specific way: The
Administrative Commission shall not take any action to change the current right, title, or legal
interest in any real or personal property that is presently held and/or used by the congregation.
The Administrative Commission shall maintain the status quo with respect to such property.
Later in the same Stated Meeting, on October 24, 2015, the Presbytery elected the following
persons to the Administrative Commission, with the provision of appointing an additional Ruling
Elder to the Commission after obtaining that person's expression of willingness to serve:
Teaching Elder Faith Jonggeward (San Pedro, San Antonio)
Teaching Elder AI Krununenacher (Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary)
Teaching Elder Fred Morgan (Honorably Retired)
Teaching Elder Rob Mueller (Divine Redeemer, San Antonio)
RulingElder Phil Barnes (Westlake Hills, Austin)
Ruling Elder Judy Ferguson (First, Kerrville)
Ruling Elder Susan Trull (St. Andrew, San Antonio)
Exhibit M
zo Isere-rasa -4073
. -
CAUSE NO. 2015-C1-0785$
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF IN flu DISTRICT COURT
SAN ANTONIO,
Plaintiff,
v.
MISSION PRESBYTERY, DEWAR COUNTY, TEXAS
Defendant. '
v.
ED BONDURANT, et aL,
73w JUDICIAL DISTRICT
Intervenors
ORDER GRANTING} TEMPORARY INTONCTION
After considering First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio's ("FPC") Verified. Original
Petition for Declaratory Judgment and Application for Temporary Restraining Order and
Temporary and Permanent Injunction, memorandum in support of temporary injunction, any
further replies or responsive pleadings, discovery on file, the evidence presented, the temporary
injunction hearing record and the arguments of counsel, the Court finds that FPC has established
the probability of its right to the requested relief under the neutral principle factors set forthby the
Texas Supreme Court in Masterson v. Diocese of Nw. Texas, 422 S.W.3d 594 (Tex. 2013);
Windward .Presbyterian Church, Inc. v. Presbyterian Church (USA), 438 SN.3d. 597 (Tex.
App.—San Antonio [1st Dist], 2014, no pet.). The Court further finds that (1) FPC is a Texas
not-for-profit corporation; (ii) Its primary purpose is not monetary but spiritual and philanthropic;
and (iii) FPC supports numerous ministries, missionaries, and charitable endeavors of wide-
ranging civic and community impact, including but not limited to: the SAMM shelter (started at
FPC), Community Assistance Ministry (CAM), the Dental Clinic, andMissionRoad. Based upon
TIMPORARY I1VONCTION ORDER Pager
the property deeds of FPC, the terms of its corporate charter, the provisions of the denominational
constitution, and the generally -applicable provisions of Texas law, ITC has demonstrated the
likelihood of its complete and exclusive ownership of any property held in its name. The Court
also finds dual/fission Presbytery has themeans at its disposal and has indeedthreatened imminent
harm and irreparable injury, loss or damage to FPC in connection with FPC filing this action and
that, if the Court does not issue the Temporary Injunction, FPC will be irreparably injured, because
Presbytery willprooced to form an Administrative Commission or listening team to seize control
of FPC property or its corporate operations or both. Such conduct by Mission Presbytery would
render FPC without an adequate remedy at law in that an award of dal:tinges would not adequately
compensate FPC for the resulting harm to its ability to conduct its various 'ministries. The Court
therefore fords that absent a temporary injunction, the rights of FPC and its ministry will be
irreparably injured, as seizure of FPC's property or corporate operations by Mission Presbytery
will adversely impact donations and volunteer support by Plaintiff's congregants and that no
amount of subsequent monetary reimbursement would be an adequate remedy for the irreparable
' damage that would be done to the mission and ministries of EPIC. , The Court also finds that Fit
seeks protection of the ownership, possession and enjoyment of immoveable and personal property
and that existing policy, and prior action of Mission Presbytery demonstrates that FPC will suffer
irreparable injury if injunctive relief is not granted and, thus, a monetary award b an insufficient
remedy at law. Thus, the Court finds that the equities faVor the issuance of this Temporary
Injunction and that this Temporary Injunction is necessary to preserve the status quo between the
parties pending a judgment on the merits of the underlying claims.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that this Temporary Injunction be and is hereby issued
against the Mission Presbytery of the Presbyterian. Church (USA), its nffir.rs, agents, employees,
TmApqRAIty WuRCTION ORDER Page 2
and counsel, and any persons or entitles in active concert or participation with the Mission
Presbytery, or acting by or through the Presbytery or on its behalf or in its stead (hereinafter
"Presbytery"), This Temporary Injunction pertains to all Property held by or for First Presbyterian
Church of San Antonio and its civil corporation (FPC), both immovable (real) together with all
buildings and improvements thereon, and movable (personal), whether corporeal or incorporeal,
wherever located, whether held by, for or in the name ofFPC (collectively 'Property"), whichreal
Property is more particularly described in the Appendix attached hereto. Presbytery is enjoined
from fill-rig any documents in the mortgage and conveyance records of Hexer Comity to assert
ownership, use or control, or rights to determine ownership, use or control, to any real Property
titled in the name of FPC or to assert a frost on behalf of the Presbytery or other affiliated third
party over real Property titled in the name of FPC or otherwise held by or for FPC the effect of
which would be to place a cloud on the title of said real Property, or otherwise interfere with or
disturb FTC's ownership; use, control, or disposition of FTC's Property, or interfere with FPC's
right to determine the ownership, use, control, or disposition of Property held by or for FPC or
held in the possession of, control of, or owned by or titled in the name of FPC.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Mission Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church
(USA), and any persons or entities in active concert or participation with it, on its behalf or in its
stead, whether acting directly or indirectly, are temporarily enjoined luau taking any action that
could affect the property rights of FPC, including but not limited to:
(1) Filing any documents in the mortgage and conveyance records in Bexar County, or
any County where FPC's property is located, the effect of which would be to place a
cloud on the title of any property titled in the name of plaintiff;
(2) Otherwise taking any action to claim or assert ownership, use, or control of the
Personal and Real Property, or aright to determine ownership, use or control ofthe
Personal and Real Property, in the possession or control of; owned by, titled in the
name of or held for the benefit of First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio;
TEMPORARY SNRINCTION ORDER Ng* 3
5
SIGNED this_ —19 day of OCTS2015, at : m.
TEMIOBARY INJUNCTION ORDER rime 5
Exhibit N
Exhibit "A"
•
litniRtgatg SaloW5
aglftt awqg .Ndl 20.5-,cX-04358
.2 imp* 1 or 1.
3
V' I EST' PRRSEYTERTAN .CBURCH IN T.2Z DISTRICT COURT
A 0.01 00 ratlitiltf
5 Ye * 1.ST JEILTUTAii:
Jtrandli VR2smitutx BEXAR COUNTY = TEXAS
7 -
TESTI-Mc/WIZ PR .9.103 EN Apogni3131-tz. wimat pQE
.9
AN])
CT OSING Attapt4Z14r4
it Cu the 27th day of Angtist r 2015r the following
12 proceedings came on toP be heard. be.fo.re the CePrtt 4.1 the
13; hatd.ntimbOicOxi and *EN/Ma palitey ad the folIowing
19 proceedings were had before THE HONORABLE JOHN P.
15 SABRIEL1 ftiniqe preatdingy held in the 131st District
16 Court, San. Aritaniof Bez-At Donntyi- Teicas.
17 Proceedings reported by pronpenteriAed stenotype
18 machine.
10
20
2.1
CO„ 570.
.s8x,AR -COUNTY, COUILISOLISA
23 1$18T DISTRICT COURT
1.001'60.1.DROSA? .4711. FLOOR
24 SA{ ANTONiOr TX .76:205
.1.01335-25-21-
25
azzgn proprowys, Asz .Rfl
2-32s1.- ins:vizor caun 210/335-2521
2
1 APPEARANCES
2
DAVID -NEST„ 880T 421196A00
3 DALEWA.00x .SMITA
112 E. Pecan- 9-ereet, Suite 1800
4 San Antonio, Texas 7.8205
shone Nci...; 2I0/554-.500
5
MR.NERT C. KRAUSE!SIM: 0-11714400.
7 cgAmoDR, DAVIS. & XRAUSR, LIR
..3100 gpg4gego. Ave,, Ste 550.
Dallas, TX 752dg
Phone Wci.4 214175073558
B
10
MR. LLOYD 1.pucEspnvi s801'it841.9
TAYLOR, PORTER, BROOKS PULLIAM rite
.451 iloritle Street, 8th Floor
Baton-Rouge4 IA 70821
2$5.n€1 7.- 3221
11EVUOInalic tsx:eliAl,NTXM
14.
fin. JOSE R. DE LA FOUNTNI. SBOT *0.07936'05
15 MA. =DER t. -O'RNGtORAS, SHOT t24683590
440 gosmax socasmix I. TOWN.uND
14 BIB Congress MR.( Sllite. '1900
anstin, TX /117-01
17 Dhone No.::- 5.12132244
-era
lg UEITRAENDA1.1., MOT", 11263250
PAVIDSON6 TBOIDO, ADAM ;A. GAABA
7550 bat 1}110, Sure 4120-
ParL :414tObiat . 792n
21 Peelle ITO..t 2.1.01349-64.04
REPANSENTIA4. THE DttaNpkin.
2.7
23.
24,
zs
LETYRY4 OONCITAIS, OR, RPIt
131ST DISTRICT Doan' 2104335-2521
1
1
INDEX
2
3 "AGE
pIGUST 27./2015
4. VLAIETIStiS 1cITNE09;
=MT CROSS
nwg AhmmODA41z Oen 90,30
.7
OEVENIDART•IS MITEESS:
DIRE= c1000
.141.1•14M POE 30,12 65,11
a CLOSING AR0fMENT9
EY: MR. tRAUsm „ . , „ .„ • J• • 00
10 al 0.A. %0MCEFORbl . . ... , • • • * 4 -.: ... 89
fr MIS, tE S.A. FUEUtE , t a •• 99.
REEUTTAT, ARMENTA
Et MR. KRAUSE. . , . . .. . . 106
12. .19i MR...15E LA-tfENTE • , WI-
14
15
16
17
10
V9
20
at
/2
12
24
25
ZFUTIA mq$CA-vAist
131ST 'DISTRICT COURT 210/315-2522
'4
4gEsg$ 1.7*STM4
2 110:1-11 0- been. first. nit -13VOTZe&F tOtileaV '&5 1:0„lowsi
3 D'IRECT EXAMMATION
4 bfrOXIVR$ Ox (ft. AWERV4r4
5 Q. Mt* Armetkdattgi my name tw Lloyd TA-Aorpta4.
6 For the reeozdt, would you please State
7 tOPIO.
ittabon PAcillas Atmandatii.
2:1 1490,14 IMP; :spell your ls:t name tpr ther 1*r.tegM
‘cFg th6 court repo-tter3 •
Alfvm-R-NAJ-A-„Itst.-:g„
0.= And tprlAvg tgq-, hrsagiagiz, or
Atlitetidatik 7
ro: a ruling Arinandfrin,
tightini ;ate; nOil Ourrantly• naip3.0gad?:
By Mission. ?:resbytery.
What -- o4popititt
A.. X aid th.s Astonciate. EtO.sisytette head .stuff-.
t:s. there any employee pi Mission 'xasitaitary *ha
Xs* Obit WspSt".Qt? oz the' tOP oy tight nowt
A. ita the top lay..
W5n14 YOU .1rief?Ii, 0,AerA0 'the imt;f yOSt
.23 job responsibilities?
# 4 a fairy W-dgv X n* *flP0r0-02e for the
25. operation Of the Miadiotil,ieSbytery and staff. I:
TrE.TITZA 164047.01-VAT R.P.R
1.31S1' trI51`Riele CD-Ottl1 2/04335-1$2-,
14
A. G-3.0205. mIn:AdditiOn ta 'those
2 responsit11ities described in 4.-3..0413, the• session
3 shall pre-Para:1:0d adtpt a blAget Arta Oa-termini:4 tle
4 distribution of the con9,r_egationls beneVslaUces.0
5 Q. 'prior to the 000pO100 of a PIIPXOhl q$14dget by a
6 session; tha flatten Onhrtitta tta*a Budgets to the
7 presbytery for the pr.asbyterxIstmviaw And approval?
A.J.
.9
O. Okay. There's rte csaa1ifiSation on the
10, authorltle at a sessisn to-Adapt a tinOget and.detapptne
11 distribilttan. of tha oangreqatiOaya. teliaVoUAO0A, ia this
12 provision, 4s there?
Ay AD4ry .1 .Repeat' that VTR.an:Pal,
14 The fnesSion ia g4Ton fO11 authority in this
P=P-std*Q10
A. Yee,
17 Q. Okay. Row would you define 'the term
banaVala0Pasi
15- A. It's d broadtetn of gifts that a deungrsgation
g4 may SLfl
21 9, WOnld.lt 4OSUlde•d4S1gnOed ?gifts -to certain
22 missions?
21 A. Yes,
24 Q. TO certain PC(USA) missions?
25 A. Tat.:
L017xii4 BrIPW4vA0,ftEt. ..PRR
:01ST OTSTRZCT COURT 210/335-2524
VOA( in the took- of DrdeT r the trust said
"run. 4.0 taa* oY the. Elixt t * A1:70. .gb
the presbytery( tbe responsibility.; the CiOnt 1:14113
X.0171*10A4.i14:tY tp-iMplesent.
A, YeAr 'itt.
6 a. Okay, "Thank you.
*W.( ygo weoldlre4 pint E;
8" additiOnal eotborlty ot the preebytesif,
0. "4dPlamo oPLgiaal itfie43.ctipp- In any situation
10 an Mhib4 It. AetPrfta404 that A.g.kairm cannot eXerniee
Its authority.."
12 VIA Agje.lon a'tAVVIlete X0r tuft a TOOTecti
13 thati %tads a Orate. m.aiSuite Iittia.dintiAnk."
44, Tnatla 494.9.g a PaakYtc-X-4‘ark vX,P4P.1.114 or. a .parlance
of it()Cabintarl:
16 Mbet does "assume urAgine2 joriSdictiOnw .
.11 •
1E ASSUMe otIvnai is ,a power: Oat La
34 ai gotIrgegratiFve commission.
20. Sp foroe-bloory dan appoint adaiinintratiAg.
2A. cOmS44-sion with authozi:ty to assume prIginal
22- ifriSaigtUA- :Apd U'that MOM4.0*Ign:
za exercises that -authority ( it assunieS zuthority that
24 ptetiOnSlY #04. keen a aP>asAPPPI:
2$ A. It is'r it it givea :06* that adthOrity.. OUt
'Tann moimmusr, C$1% SR
1.3182, DIM= COURT :210/315r.2521
23.
there'-s' as 144e -rang-e pi' AutyloritlieS qt r;PPEs041$144tY
01.4
a Q.. Right. The scope
t Ai. 4-0014 14 one dt Lheiii, 'yes.
5' Q. Thy sop: of p:isclekt, admixilitrattte
csmnismLom is determined by the mm' 4n tliat creates 4/
1' A. Viatk0
8 Okay_ Matta tertian that creates- it could
4*Y-A- t4y.tio-Nor to :3.tg.oi..ge m:tgiu,y1 prAKOLtu,
got.-gtot,7
A. It could give it the power ?
it. bt ggbt4 And if W.0 that pOW44". And it
13: eXeraSes it, it, &n effeet, beeCmdaaild replaces the.
14. sesAiPgt P9r;Ct3
4, It deptilaa, tatIP the power it's 4W00..
10 Q. Right. This. says, thoughl. that it wikhAn.
a thY ActhentY at A Trapbytogy tt): do A11-4 i tpr.X.0:(41
Mai tt
R. akAY, And 07,11044/ .karni !reinor the W.P.r.$c Of.
*0 PgeStreriOtr ctittect,
21 A. tes.
Okay. 1.f you 'would iook at zGH3.0401.
23 Actually, that:eaptitn is tiipped cg the page k
29, 09n74Ilir an Page: Ow flj,9 p:ettaiTas Of
25. SYabtl. Page' 35.
zwzmu hvaciars.., Ot&. PPR
23152' DX$TgICT tot= 210.035-a521
2,6
1 .in trust for. the use and benefit of the Ilresbyterian
Church (U.S.A.).
2 Q,. 5p if the Synod ponclndee that a. presbytery
4 adeJ44ately 1MpleMehttng 014 trust clagae, the
5 synod 'cad take over -the presbytery, and tie: it for. theft'?
6 '0•W'S 0414 that'=s 'sating, isn'E it'
7 A. that's the advisory that is made..
0, And :yolt had testified :that Mrflloa Preibytery-
9 is the member prebytery Of the sylicd of, the Sun;
10 correct?
A. tes. Thatts .correct,
12 Q. Ahd are yca aware that the Synod, of the Sun has
:pkev100Aly kaken over of 'presbytery within its'
14 ierls-dlaion to 42 in'st tint?
15, A, I am aware.
16 LONCEFOR0t Your Renor, txhibit 41 is-
17 a published appellate deoisinn. in: the taporter'a systaM e
in. w.h14fi this 4am0.41.nod o.ft the .sari tr wh•ioh Miss. on
19 prasbytaty is a part, ex'er'cised ,inrisdlction by
26 appointing ao adminj..stret4ve commiesion 'to take over a
?), preSbytery to in an attempt to aitercise the
22 denominations claim. over local church property when. the
23. syhod 'Cobol-tided that the preaytery wa40't beihl
24 fl.fficiehtly alaigtescW0-
25 FIB CQOAT; YOU maid :that's,
LpTial pdaNC.TVArS, tSk spg
23/sr Disrincx COURT :210/335-2521
27
MK.= PE: LA 11/ZOTEI Your Ranort I'm Iping
2 to object to the entire characterization of that- t
S. appreciata 14t. Lunceferdr.s argument of the reasoning of
4 What happened With; the- ,syhed, et cetera. $o• r object to.
5 the chatecterizetien and the tePtiMOny OA the record by
6 HE. Uhcffprd.
I'm alnp going to objecht again, to the
7 re/entire4f stuff that happened ShMewheP6 else, the
9 question is whether Mission 2resby:te•ry is an imminent
10. threat end has done anytbi4:4 In fAIrtbOrSt a .any of
these beogien men that they're trYing to pot in front :Of
12 -you. And I'm still .waiting and 1 haventt heard
13 evidence., -one, that Mission Presbytery intenda tn: do
14 that ii this ..ate.
IdE. ;urnkilORP4 The cnOrt4 OViPhslItt Oen
14 read the opinion for itself end determine what it says.
17 and ddearet say.
la rf16 COORTi is that 4 Cann opinidn?
19 MR. IMICEEDRD:: Yes, It's a Louisiana
20 ntst .circuit Court of Appeal dge*aioni *bait 41;
2.1 POPUE: 7,11c1 I Ohject to it
12 being entered into evidence.:
23 MR. LUNCEFORD:. I think it's already
24 been --
25 MR. WEST; No, it WaS nOtA That VaS one'
I;STITIA MOOPivAIS, CSR, RP14
131ST DISTRICT :COURT 210/in-2521
A. :StS4i
2
.3 Yea-!
4.: tc. Okay_ be with regatd. tc, for exampla4 the
MIThrvettP.Va rtgtuting 0'154; -the! IPP1144-
6 tihOY L40 16 0tIteLtOted thAt. 1ia.ve 150aU Si4d0 at .n
- .Pf
easte.y. 0o—session has the-ability to adopt a budget
K:Ud datet1.100 llow those ar:ai 405Pg to Itta aP.krit
right now?, right?
lU ▪ 1411 4t•t 4 VAaV P;Kfl,
Q, ZS- 4 4aS0tOU. of, VCAVsAl bOhYgl04.Kti007
Yes.
O* ?ipti. POS)35/tory .a.K11.1-t etiert Just,
14 Strftipirig- in. ah.d etvetteelag the. btd4et Klvd determiuing!t
nch yo-t2 saitY9051: -0.f3
./e little more 11•0. K 1;1-4:%a
there,: ahtthIng 1A6.
r7 4 No,
43Y And. kka Utte:t.:vortorp 0:er iu.*ei-yttaay.rsil
19. itltxrctith Is grahtad tappiiihg:FPC to epAtInue
20. ova:rat:4m,, thPfl aaaa.ta 4-s 49.flar al4biadt egy
21 m(usA) cormitotrarmA11104 !able Bala, V4Uld thit thafig-e
at allt
as pot at a11;.:
24 p, With•tagatd to the trust clause- that
ZA Mt!. Jawivel:f4I asked you, anut, acitied &vein Sx.blbj.:t 191
liPtY4401021kAne CSR 4.913
laISX.D.ISXRICT. :MUT 210/1-25E-1
151
1 acid ohiliqatiphs heis asserting that preSbyteries .have t45
assert the:trust clause. In this tempOrari InDIAction
3 proceeding today, hasn't Mission Pte0YtrIr consoiovslY
ohoseA ant to pursue an argument SaPed'On the trust
5. OlaUtel
Out's trwpt
6 QA Eqchibit 19, being the 4dtisbfl'oldinies; is this
a name legal regnigebent on Mission .Presbyteryst Inc.?
a
la IS thin an acalesiaatidalopinion7
11
is thin One, of: thd -- is this One 01
the Comatitutten itules or Regulations of the VC01.4101
14 -0.4, it's not,
15 Q. Ate those found entirely within here?
16 A. Correct.
11 9, The Bonk Of Order?
la AA Yes'.
19. 0,- tint going to have yeti turn tel.-- I Relieve itts
. *Wit you td read joist the. first line of
20.0-5-107A Z
ZI &=3-142, om page 4*.
22 AR Yes. keSundila of thurdflaVe. only
11 ecclesiastical jurisdiction for the, porpopp"
24 mava only ocoleshstioal jst1sdleticile?
25 A. That's correct.
ZETMA MONcIVAX.9., ESE, apA
131ST otarftret COURT 11.004,52$24
33
- ,
that, trAW?
2 AA That 3-a trApi
a pc Then E ..want-to aAk yOu% about SOthetbing:
4. 01-ThOPt9X4 P•40.4 Atoll gino3g; Seckickr,k :G-EL,V0 03 e lie
nai'Oha- With 80461:070it eh, Page And 11qt:14f
iiit
6 highlighted lot you Section H. Can you read-Section g.
7' AT* PS- 45414 AO 004g .rdtalat. witch te1d4.1V
-0.01141
ACopixel lPmAt*P11 gt 1114.
.
ciengt;PUPti:PP2. And of e0a9teletioae deW:flo4 to move
well. as to divide1 dismiasr or dissolve conireggtIone in
COPM*atIg11 W,411 001; AO-p*:a.":"
13. Q. All right. 1 Want te ask abobt that last
,phrase 0.41 conagItatoo with thair.meihera-r w
7100-:
IS p. Right' 11.014r tberefs a temporary retraining order
in:PI;EMP PA Va.P:ki41
7114t terreOe.
Q. IPN[4-24PP rePtiery abte t0 act 10
20 .040UltatIOA with 't1 mg*hi% :of 'BC: POreegdt th tho
temporary restraining-orderl
22. Fd-r_ t110Y/,te 110,
23 Q•. me_ hkmendariz, you've -seen the temporary
Z4 1Agtfl*A).Pg Pg4A-c-aAtAtbe AA:st of thl-POs that,
2:5 elrald an G6 ng ard ChAhViO0 th&locks and filing
IZXXTIAIXVCIVAXS, .0458t RPR
na.TRICI 'GOURD 210/315-2521
34
1 Ii9rip Ugkiipa .gUdge qOrtal'a Xe-409US
bac*gtP#Ad -and ifhP knews Witt else' AA id t-hAt list; All
those things yos!,Ve 'teed liOted. Had MisSied Zresbytery .
40A9 a A1441a 0.4e Pt PiPse things With kggArd tO FPO
5 A- NoAe At 01,
6 Q. Has Mission Presbytery developed or stated any
%Atopt to.,4o A.py pilo of 01A4g-thiA0 ggsatsuog
B. A, :10-
P. .11 M-4PIPT). Pra'sYten tmAR 04P: .to esiga4G i1
Q. itflagntastkdal tilnd:014is Pt relatin.404. 341t4 tt!o
11 methbers-oe FPC who are by virtue of that inambershAp
Xz rogir0ex4 14 M'i'ssion VxeaYto,Kyl
13 A, NO,
Xt mg. pt LA POWIA-4, r4a8 thv X9gr
15 HOTOrN
16 THE =um Mr_ - WSeford2
17 14•NARgtr 4001000,0s
T.B. augsripms.sy MR. LQWEFORat
13 Q. Mr. Ixnendarks,. it the Hynad-ol t7ia 'Sun.
0.4 IsistriAttee4 ALSInigin Pre4b2Uty t0 115tm an 4d4iiii§tratIVe
21 commissith;to take Miginal jarisdioWq-pver the
:s*Waten ;(3 'First, Ogegbyta.tign Phurdit Apt' Wan Antiallo.k.
23' kbat would" you 431
PE 44 ifX. -03360t,;04.11t. tot
25 Oatlaltibdi Your linharA
UTITTA MOICIVA14-1 4W$', APR
1313V VISTRICZ COOT 210:1335-2521
66.
Q. lay Mr. Taineefo-Ed) What Would your
✓esponSibilitlea be on the WoOk og Order?
There would be no responsibility in the Book of
4 Order because. it has net. gone through due process.
Q. !ell, it ail poOeess. 4tq hacl been varkt04. and
at the end -of the eAii.the .qhadt Which haS Oversight
responsibility over the presbytecy, told the presbytery
to rePleee the teatiOn;Ot First PreSibyteriani Church .of
San Amtonle, wen:admit the Presbytery be. Obliged to obey
the directive, of the: synod/
A., It *Mild be only Obliged to proceed :With
process, but :not to Oerso right inAedlately,
.1S 0, *AIL forget iNoadiatel)flv BUPPOse: Whatever
14 •process IS, has ecOurred and there is no clear preeess
outlined, if the synod, passed e.tesplutien: to ipstrett
1s :
16 ▪ Prioati.flogY to, .fOrP AP AdainOttethe o0OW-ssion to
17 're:plebe the. session of First fleabyterlea Of
19 LSO hnteniot what would the presbyteryta regponse to
19 that be?
IP' 10 ORAA FOAM: t 010cEt Your' Repot.
2), rut gpitg to eb ject as• Calling for spetUlatiOn. if.. he
zg wants to .aak questionsol what synod- wouid 4o and what
23 Synod Vv-lad be, able to-requite, 114. Should ask these-
24 -questions Of the synod/ not of Mr. katernistiz
2$ ONCgrOitbi He's a07 in the
OTXTIA.1919ATOVAZS, CSIT„ 178
.01ST DISTRICT COURT 210/335-2521
36
1 presbytery. He's gualified to pay what.thePiresbYte;
would '4,
3 THE. WURTi. 2 4 11 A4lOw 411.0.14Ors
4 Overrule the objection.
Mit DO 44 WEPITX4 Y91.1 '009Xe *A 1 P.
6 Mtavelx, ApoltlAticro.
T:am viaq head nt staff, Ne have a
d_b4StLtilti-OhAi if:W1-0 A Stated Ofe stated.
9 clerk ..ts the polity person.
OfF 1743/..0r* -. 4q1909-4.441 *aid ypp jgnpre the synod
ot 'mold yeti *bey the qhp47
iidtt V4:-LA FtiOnTE; I object to the
13 4116stio that, eiVitgePtdkAVP POI AWkit calls tor
14 spethu ldtith
.
AVCOPAP4:. Tt's not aZgapientativp at
16
BR'. ON, LA, kYSION: They -cflered him two
option!, Xt'P 4zgligOlitPtiv-P4 tOPX 31O§TA
19 THE COURT: I'll allow it. ovetruld the
70 .objection,
21 YOU' may atieWei's
(Hy Sr. IP-neer-era Would Y-232 OPY the flood Pp
M
23 VOuld you i4dote the flinoa?
24 A. I would obey the synod only as far as t o
2 . ,Onablieb proO0s—by chap]- tie NUAld tallow the
MVXT14 14.041041$ '00k sgli
2,3.1$7 AUXErgx mum' Olongs-2521
3.1
1 process, brut it Woilldett be right eWer as we'll do it.
2 Q, Xt the process resulted in the synod telling
3 the presbytery to XP TM en administrattye commission to
4 replace 'the ..5e4elen of FitSt Pzd's san_Antonio, and.gt
5 the end of that: process that was the. result, would, you:
obey that, -- would you Lgnore.that.resnit or would you.
7 follow it.P?
MR, DE LA flJRHTSt Your 4pagre more
/5e0-121dtiOh..
10 Ulm COURT: Just so T understand your
11. cflmstiOn., 100 said and-I .knOW the witnest answered
12 after a prdtdust yOulre. saying after nue process?
13 0- (Hy AuP0004) after whatever process
14 YOPV 6 talking ebmit 'has OtoUrredi if the deoislion by
15- the synod retained and it. directed the-presbytery to
tea an administrative term-mission to take °onto' pf.tke
17 session of Fitst. Prep San Antenloc would you ignore that
18 or yould you fellow #1.
is 21, peyceld Apt Unote it'; but ye- %told-trite
20 follow t process. in. order to see if we could fulfill
21 On the typed hiss inStrgeted,
22 Q. And if you. ignored: it, does the synod have the
autherity -to fOrm an tdministratlire COAntitsaien to take
2,4 aver ;the presbytery and deal-with what presbytery is
25 unwilling to do?
zarzS BPROVAX$e AZT
1315 -D'FSTRIC7" COURT 2,3,013.1-25$1
0
38
A. It haa the authority.
de *ay. Thank yo-,A 1
3 MB. ZUNCEPOZP: No further vteAtippg.
4 reit COURT': t!d. de la tuente, anything
eisal
111MogE,
EXAMINAITON
0$ BY rm. DE. D EONTB)
OUNST4:
P. Mr..ArMendarl%, Mission PSeabytary bas
telephone, a. mailhox u and a 4007E right!?
td 4. thet4 s sprraut,
11 0. Has the Dyad :come through any blie. of those
1-2 three things And told you to do apytihUg with regard to
14 A. Not at all.
15 MR. DE LA pmfmt, as the witness.
16 tiiE COuRn mr. Inineefodi Anything
17 x-0140,0Apit &thing %.4rt:begt-
le TOE COURT::- Mr. Ar*a0dAr1zi i0A .4x9p
19 down.
20
21 WILLIAM CERISTOtHEA :POE,
22: haviAg:been first cinIY.swoXP, testified ea101104RA;
23 OXESOT EXAMINATION
24 00TION$ BY Og. pgts,frenixig4
25 V, Mr,. FAA, OPhld YOA identify YOUrtelf fret the
ar.trIA aPti-C,T VATS, egg, gn
.131ST !Migrate!' -collar -219/335-2521
5.3
. couldn't tell whether it violated it or not. When. tbey
name forth with more specifics, we deter*Lted-that it
3 wasn't pretext:pal, there was no violation Of the TRO,
4 41-0 Wpiye att_ pursued. it With this court.
474$ CPURT1 Picey1 1 0.0.0:0
5 Mr. de IA Fteote ha-e. gtestleitoh the wording of the
7 TWO.
I'm titling to admit Ekhibit 39 in evidence.
- Just so there's .a better un4erstapding of whets.
oceufred,
Insien'clantIS thibit. No- 3$ admitted)
Q. 061 Mr, be :Le! 30uentel Mt. 7200, 100 tuft 110.4x4
l'UncAfer4 aarr yeti khoWf the ingUiry. the5i :146
asking: about 'here wad whether you. followed u4441 Boot Pr
:**-9h0
A. YOS.
Q. 0- 141 1, 119r you- followed. the took of Order in an.
e.c.01aSiestio01. matter.?
A- Yes,. it is,
20 Q. TheI(
ve asked for en iyiltnetiOu Otharwise
21 ihterfetiegvith the ,---..prehibiting Mission from
othervise interfering with the .ribtmal 4uties
13. reOpasibilities of the Officer-ay Ministers( an'd
24 employees og ?First Presbyterian thlir'ch of $an IL‘ntopiO,
25 or the YET San Antonio foundation,. Or, any designees.
, .
zEriTiA mompxyAls:, :cage RPR
UlsrMOTRICT COURT 210038-2521
54
thereof. in any way that pertains to: the Ownership,
2 00At,.1t, \lac or dispocitiOn, of tUage4 and PetPPIPI
3 propertyhald by oz in the baste of First 'Presbyterian of
4 San totemic.
S DO you 4.0.00A that?
A. YS.:
9. You've heard .testimony that-anything 010c
a affeota CPkaone Wiling an offieC.At'ouPtrulr OCKffifere-
affects their ability to 06httel the property/ xaght?
So by this- -- it on ot -xdore of an officer of
First Prestyteriam Church vitolated the or'eluation Vows'
P41114, under tais ftlittcticOf 01.0A%-on Presbytery do
anything about it?
. A. I don't, know, but I eqm't -this* so.. I don't
thibk
0.
- And that would •lie for both a mundane violation
of ordination vows/ tightl
19 A. (Nod4 hese).
2Q O. What about.: pxofound VI-Clattua? SCMel
21 Ad Sista-
22 Q. Wliat it there ;is an ieacla of -- apd -awrp, is np
23: allegation of thia by the way. Ent What if there is ab
24 issue oft say, I signifiPant-malfeaPaPoe? Could you: 4¢
2$ anything .00:11t
arivA goirpiVAXS, CM. RPR
231ST DISTRICT COURT 210/335-2521
56
toil.meny.negatives in that. Are you -- I didn't
2 understand, Are- you saying that theta's -something In
j the injunctitch that would prohihit you torn
communicating with the minority faction?
5 DE ?,A FUENtE: r Asked if it ilk a
Way that would Interfete with -- that -would pertain to
I the ownership/ control, use or disposition of the real.
a, property,
9 Q. My'Arx. De La Identej And 'don't the members
la autno:ritor to yob-e on such matters?
nava tnA ,
12 A.. -They dO.
12' .0. okay. fl mentioned all. Icipds of,ministries
13 at it 154Aicipataa In; ';be SAW Oheltegt and the:
1-4 Commtnity Allietance hiniotry„ Are 41168p ministries
1.5 cana,tqbeet: With -the Aipsion. of - PcaSki
A. YOF Ooflar as I gill* thOILL
0.. Art they allowed under the Constitution Rules
16 and. Regulations of vp(psAf?
19 A... X0a.
2 0- Are you aware .or Any MrAAt tiy .stnioA
21 lvi't.00-.:0t1 to testric.t.WPC teem Oil-Or:king any :of Oleos
22 ministries now- or la the .future?
A. 110:k
24 Q. In fact, Mr. Armendariz pointed to. 3,0 was
2.$ ased about descrihiug the reappneihilities of
iATXT3A MPNCYVAIfft RPR
1451' PXOTRXCT POUBT 2A043,35-2521
57
the pe, sAnp. oyet prefltigg atd adoptlAg thb bUdgAt 010
2 determining the distribution JOE the congregationta
3 benaVolenCes?
4 A. Yea.
ge the session has that authority todayl
A, 'MS; it doesi
7 0. Okay. And. if the session is requited to
D inbotinA0 to. treat the: assets subject- to the cnArtitAtipm
9 Oigis and gtifoiatioA0 ci.tthia Pciva4b-meAniaig kp a
-ID member congregation of PCOSA) only -- .we talked about
11 that elarAier, rJ.ght1
1.2
41 Q. Ony.4 Would that change anything they do under
14 3.02669
15 A, No, It -would- not,
14 okay. tiavb:you become .aware of A de4i.g4 pg UPC
17 to' leave the dentimihatidn?
?a A. yes.
19 0. Row• dial yol1tdeme aware oT that desire?
10 A. We received—a-letter from Mr, West- inviting As
:2-1 to der&lAer certain area of nogonAticul,
O. And did thoSe areas of negotiation include.
dA4m1443.149
:74 MR, LUNCEFORDp /bur tionori I'M letting to
4•1 objept to 014 41.1q of 1:14%st4pavg., file's asking gbout 4
4-ETITIA NONCTVAIS, CUR, ON
A41sT -Dr$T8TcT COURT 21-0/3,35--A521
Exhibit 0
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
ATTORNEY WORK COMMUNICATION
tons-Erhai IL
Processes for Use by presbyteries in responding to congregations seeking to withdraw
I. FOCUS ON OUR OVERRIDING PRINCIPLES
A. Who-We are
The Presbyterian Church tli.S.A)Strives to be a church modeled on the body of thrist so
well articulated in I Corinthians:12. That is, a church made up of many different parts, all of
which are"... necessary for its mission to The world, for its building up, and for its service to
God." (G-I.0100b;)
1. We gather together in congregations.
".... [Tlhe several different-congregations of bel levers, taken collectively, constitute one
Church- of Christ (Q-1.0400)-
","A particular Church consists of those persons in a particular-plate, alon&with their
children, Who profess lidthin :rest's Christ as Lord and. Saviorarid who have been
-gatherted for the service of Gr4as "set forth in Scripture, subjedt to-a particular form of
church government." (GA.0103)
a. A particular Presbyterian Church is an unincorporated association of believers
treated-by or received into the pc(usA).
"Each particular church of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) shall be governed by this
ConstitutiOn. Its officers are ministers-ofthe Word and Sacrament, elders, and
deacons: Its government and guidance are the responsibility of the sestion. It shall
fulfill its responsibilities as the focal unit of mission for the service of all people, for
the upbuilding of the whole church, and for the glory of God." (0-4.0104)
b. The Corporation of a particular church is a civil body created by the state.
"Whenever permitted by civil law, each particular church shall cause a corporation to
be formed and maintained. -Only members.on the active roll of the particular church
shall be members oldie corporation and eligible for election as trustees.. The elders
in-active service in a church who are eligible under the civil law shall, by reason of
their office., be the trustees of such corporation, unless the- corporation shall determine
another method for cleating its trustees. Any such alternate method shall provide for
a-nominating toromittee elected by the corporation', and -for tents for trustees the
-same at are-provided for elders. Any particular church which is not incorporated may
select trustees-Kam the. membersion the active roll Of the church. The power and -
duties nf such trustees-shag not:infringe upon thepowers hp:a duties of the session or
nttheboardprileacons, tg,10.0104 0-6.914017p (0;1:040):
2. Church property is at service for mission..
a. "The great ends of the church ate the pruelantation of the gospel for the
of humankind; the nurture, and spiritual fellowship of the children of God; the
maintenance of divine:worShip; the preservation of the truth; the prornotion of social
righteousness; and the ekhibition'of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world." (0-1.0200)
b. The purpose of the Trust Clause (G-8.0201) is to support the purposes and
mission of the particular church as a part of the Presbyterian Church (" ^
EXHIBIT 12 FPC 001253
I
the Constitution of the Church.
"All property held by or for a particular church, a presbytery, a synod, the General
Assembly, or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), whether legal title is lodged in a
corpotatinn, a trustee or trustees, or an unincorporated association, and: whether the
property is used in programs of a particular church or of a more inclusive governing
body or retained for the production of income, is held in trust nevertheless For the use
and benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)." (G-8.0201)
B. How we make decisions
1. Discerning Christ's will
Through our theology we understand that Ipiresbyters are not simply to reflect the will
of the people,, but rather to seek together to find and represent the Will of Christ." (G-
I 4.0301d.)
a Majority rule
"Decisions shall be reached in governing bodies by vote, folloWing opportunity for
discussion, and a majority shall govern." (G-4_0301 e.)
b: Always reforming
At the same time; the church is committed to being open to voices sharing minority
opinions_ At sortie points in our history minority views eventually became those of
the majority. Thus, the Constitution recognizes "'The church reformed, always
reforming,' according to the-Word of God and the call of the_Spirit." (G-2.0200)
2. It we disagree
Presbyterians have always celebrated and recognized significant differences of Opinion
on issues that matter. This ethos is currently noted in the historic language found-at Q-
1.0305: "... ['Age also believe that there are truths and forms with respect to which men
of good characters and principles may differ. And in all theie wth think it the duty both of
private Christians and societies to exercise mutual forbearance toward each other."
a.. How we allow dissent
The Office of the General Assembly recOguizes that currently there: are deep and
profound differences of conviction on a variety of topics in the church. When it
comes to voicing those differences, we have previously drawn a clear distinction
between dissent, which is alWays constitutionally protected; and defiance, which is
never, everprotected7The ConstliiMlin—pi6iriaes way& to register disagreement and
to propose:change.
1)- Any governing 6O-ClY menthe( may surely dissent (0-9.0303) and/or protest
(G-9-.0304) a particular action of that body.
2) Sessions (0-10,0102p.(6)) and presbyteries (G-1 1.01031.(3)) may overture
higher governing bodies for changes in policies or even changes in the
Constitution itself,
See Advisory Opinion #2
2
FPC 001254
b. How we behave in disagreement
I) Our covenant demands that we strive' to work together in peace and unity,
even in the midst of our diversity. This foundational Presbyterian principle.is
found in many places within our Constitution (0-10.0302a.(3)(a), G-1 f.0413, D-
1.0101, f1-1.0103) The duty is always to attempt to bring the estranged member
I back into the covenant community, We promise to carry out that duty in our
ordination vows.7
2) There are also limes when an individual finds it impassible to go along
with the majority. "... [W]hen any matter is determined by a majority vote,
'•1. every member shall either actively concur with or passively submit to such
determination_" IS an individual officer finds that his [her] "...conscience permit
him [her] to do neither, he [she] shall, offer sufficient liberty modestly to reason
I and remonstrate, peaceably Withdraw from our communion without attempting to
make any schism." (italics added) (Endnote 1, Chapter VI) Dissent cannot
constitutionally become advocacy for defiance, nor for schism.
IL IF SCHISM ISA RISK FOR A PARTICULAR CONGREGATION
The Office of the General Assembly is aware ofPresbyterians who feel compelled not only to
abandon their voWs3 and promises, but who are willing also to rend the ftibrie of the church and
sinful:I./threaten the peace and unity of Christ's Church: We ire Concerned that some seem
willing to take for themselves the authority to. ascribe within Which "certain bounds ... of the
Reformed faith" (G..6.010gb.)- we ail must live. lit our !astray this too often has led- to schism, a
right of no Presbyterian:I The t &tO schism is:walWays interpreted in connection with and in the
context of specific factual situations."5
When faced with Information that a congregation Is intent upon ar at risk of departing
from the PCRISAI, we suggest the following measured approach:
A. Use a team to gather information.
L This could be a team appointed by the Council (G-9.0902a., G-11.0103v , via
G-9.0501a.)
"A committee is appointed either to study and recommend appropriate action or to carry
out directions or decisions already made by a governing body. It shall make a full report
to the governing body that created it, and its recommendations shall require action by the
governing body." (G-9.0.501a)
2. it could be a (earn from the Committee On Ministry (G-11.0503, G=I I.05()2c.
[triennial visa], G-11.05021. j.)
G-14.02075. and G-140405b.(7) Do yott promise to further the peace, unity, and purity of the church?
G-14.0207e. and G-14.0405b.(5) Will you be governed by our church's polity, and will you abide by its
discipline?
Second Helvetic Confession 5.162 "all schismatic seeds should be removed." and 5.141 "Furthermore, we
diligently teach that care is to be taken wherein the truth and unity of the Church chiefly ties, lest we rashly provoke
and foster schisms in the Church."
5 PCUS AliktiteX 1968, p. 108
3
FPC 001255
a. "The committee shall be open to communication at all times with the ministers,
elders who are members of sessions, sessions of the presbytery, and Certified
Christian Educators Within the bounds of the presbytery." CO-11.0503i
b. "It shall visit with each session ofthe presbytery at least once every three years,
discussing with them the Mission and ministry of the particular church and
encouraging the full participation of each session and congregation in the life and
work of presbytery and of the larger church. (W-1.4002)" (0- l .0502c)
-1
c. "It shall serve as: an instrument of presbytery for promoting the peace and
harmony of the churches, especially in regard to matters arising out of the relations
between ministers and churches. Its purpose shall be to mediate differences and
reconcile persons, to the end that the difficulties may be corrected by the session of
the church ifpossible, that the welfare of the particular church maybe strengthened,
that the unity of the body of Christ may be madernanifest_" (0-11.05020
d. "It shall exercise wise discretion in determining when to take cognizance of
I- information, concerning difficulties within a church, proceeding with the following
steps:" (OA1.0502D
1) "It may take the initiative to bring the information:which has come Oa. it to the
attention of the session of the church, involved, counseling with the session as to
the appropriate actions to be taken in correcting the reported difficulties"
(G-11.0502j.(1))
2) "It may offer its help as a mediator hi ease the session either finds itself
unable to settle the problems peaceably or takes no steps toward settlement!'
(G-11.0502j.(2))
3) "It may act to correct the difficulties if requested to do so by the parties
concerned, or if this authority is granted by the presbytery for the specific case.
When so doing, the committee Shall always hold hearings which afford procedural
safeguards as in cases of process, following the procedures outlined in the Rules
ofDiscipline." (0-41.0502j.(3))
1 The team could be appointed by the presbytery trustees.
4. The team might be made up of members from each of the above- bodies, and could
include others as well.
B. Erripower the team to conduct an Administrative Review.
Those conducting a special administrative review have certain constitutional
authority:
a. "Ifs higher governing body learns at any time of any irregularity or delinquency
by a !Myer governing body, it may require the governing body to produce any
records and lake appropriate action (G-12.0102n, 0-12.0304, G-13,01031c, n)" (G-
9:0408)
4
FPC 001256
b. Authorize the team to look at whatever records may be relevant (i.e. how
money is held, title to property, insurance documents; corporate officers, corporate
articles, bylaws, chatters- especially changes in any of these). Such a team should be
especially careful to look far recent changes or modifications of the articles,
bylaws, or deeds. The presbytery is entitled to see such changes in regal documents.
(G-9.04081
e. "In reviewing the proceedings of a rower- governing body, the:higher governing
body shall determine, either -from the.records of those proceedings Cnifrom any other
information as may come to its attention-, whether: (0-9.0409a)
I) "The proceedings have been faithful to th emission. of tit whole church,"
(G-91.0409a.(4))
2) "The lawful injunctions af a higher governing body have been obeyed."
(0-9.0409a.(5))
12. Authorize the team to give directives (0,0.0410) on behalf of the presbytery.
a, "It Is ordinarily sufficient for the higher governing body to record in its own
proceedings, and in those under review, its approval, disapproval, or correction.. If
necessary, the higher governing body may direct thelower governing body to
reconsider and-correct an irregularity or cure a delinquency." (G-9.0410)
b. The type of directive will depend on the issues (examples-. don't call a
congregational meeting, don't transfer assets, don't encumber property, don't elect
new officers).
C. The team must keep all concerned parties informed.
t. Send letter to session (wording should be measured, but firm).
2. Send letter to all members of congregation (Measured, non-threatening, explanatory;
presbytery often has been "made out to bet poised to seize the property, etc.).
3. Members, of team have 'one on one" conversation with the pastor. Be sure she/he
understands the consequences of any prohibited action&
j
4. Communitate often with council, COM, or body that appointed on progress- being
made. When the team has reached some conclusions, take recommendations to
presbytery for further action; if necessary.
IF SCHISM IS LIKELY, USE AN ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSION
For a congregation bent on attempting td withdraw
A. Why use an administrative commission?
"Commissions appointed by sessions, preSbyteries, synods, or the. Genera'
S.
FPC 001257
either administrative or judicial, except in the case of sessions, which may appoint only
administrative-commissions. The functions, ordinarily- en trusted to an administrative
comitrisSiori are .21- (04.050-3a)
"to visit. particular churches, governing bodies,. or other organizations of the church reported
to be affected with disorder, and to inquireinto and-settle the difficulties therein, except that
no commission shall hive the- powee to dissolve a -pastoral relationship unlesssuch power has
been specifically delegated to it by the-appointing body;".(0-9-.0503a.(4))
B; How to use the administrative commission
I. Many future difficulties can be avoided by a careful evaluation of the presbytery's
goals in creating the commission and the powers the presbytery's commission will need
to meet those goals.
2. Technically„ an- administrative commission has the full authority of a presbytery for
the liMited purposes-, for which the-commission was created. (0-9,05.62) This fact.
suggests that a presbytery should be Very careful and deliberate in the authority it
delegates to an administratiVe commission. Careful attention at this stage will be
rewarded by a clear focus for the con-mission and an understanding of the Commission's
authority by the session and the congregation.
3. It is helpful to note that adininistrative commissions are not 'tall or nothing"
propositions. They may be given authority to "dissolve pastoral relationships" (which
must be explicitly given, CI-9.0503a(4)) or may be authorized to make only
recommendations to the presbytery to dissolve. Commissions may be authorized to
"assume original jurisdiction in any case it determines ... the session of a particular
church is unable or unwilling to manage wisely the affairs ofits church ... ." In fact,
many times an administrative commission may persuade a session to agree not to meet
without a member of the commission present, as an alternative to assuming original
jurisdiction. Then the commission can simply consult rather than govern,
4. Such administrative commissions should always he created by a written motion to
the presbytery.
1
C. Drafting a creating motion and assurance of an "opportunity to be heard"
The careful evaluation of the problents and necessary goals will greatly aid in drafting a clear
and concise creating motion. Remernber that the commission takes "its Marching orders"
j from this document; the affected session and minister get notice of precisely what is being
sought from this motion. Time spent carefully crafting the motion is time well spent
Several necessary components seem clear.
I I. Membership: The make up of the commission generally should be persons "known
and respected" by the congregation. The commission should be representative of the
presbytery as a whole.
a. How large will the commission be? A presbytery commission must have at least
seven members, but can have more if the circumstances merit it..
b. What kind of skills and personalities will be necessary? Thies
6
FPC 001258
on what the presenting problem is. his also helpfiil to note that a presbytery may
remove-and replace members ofi ts commission. This-may be done to give
"overworked" members a break and to bring in "new -blood" or it may be done to
bring in new skills or giftt to the process.
c. It is our opinion that the following persons ought not be appointed to such
commissions:-the stated clerk, 'the:executive preSbyter; thernoderator, thernoderator
ofthe-Committee on Ministry, any memberof the:presbytery's judicial commission.
2. Powers:. This is the section where the presbytery lays out- What authority it has
deemed its commission needs to correct the presenting-difficulties,
a. If ever the commission is confused about what authority it possesses, it should not
hesitate to request clatifica lien. from theprethytery,
b, - We have advised that the presbytery should be clear that the commission may
I. assume jurisdiction of the session upon some-triggering; event-or action of the.
session. This usually has a dramatic effect on the behaVior of all the interested
parties.
c. Of courser there are clearly situations where a session already has amply
demonstrated that it is "unable or unwilling" to carry out its responsibilitiesand
- where the presbytery needs to give its commission authority to act as the session in
all of the G10.0102-powers. In thatsituation a plan to replace individual
commission merribers periodically should be developed at the onset.
3. Rationale: The motion should- include a fairly detailed rationale section describing
the history of the presbytery's intervention in the particular situation.
a. It should answer the question: why is an administrative commission necessary?
(as opposed to continued Committee-on Ivtinistry intervention, for instance)
ba In out experience, the group or person seeking the appointment of alt
administrative commission in this circumstance needs to be prepared to answer at
least three substantive quettions from presbytery comniissioners, Usually
compelling responses to those questions insufficient to convince the presbytery of the
necessity of the appointment of an administratiVe commission.
4. Process; Administrative commissions need alw-ays remember that they act in the
name of the Lord. Their work is not-about winning, or even bringing about change, but
about restoring healthy ministry within a certain context. Commission members must
always treat elders, pastors, and members with respect and patience. Emotions are
high, because religion matters].
a. Mast commissions will find it helpful to do some information gathering of their
own. The rationale section of the empowering motion will provide much
information, but there is no substitute for first hand information. This can come in
the form of interviews, as well as written correspondence. A wise commission will
interview all who wish to speak with them, and seek out others sugg----"--
7
FPC 001259
Who do interview. Itrhay also.seek input via Written materials When circutilstances
indicate such a forum will yield helpful feedback,
.th Once the commission determines it has sufficient information,, it need* to
I
evaluate itsnext Steps, .Sornetirrtes the riext.stepwillhe a report and
recommendation to the presbytery, includlhgSriggestions for forth:et action by-Other
entities of thepresbytery (Committee on Ministry, for instance), Sometimes it will be
I
the removal of th e. pastor or the assumption of original jurisdiction as described
below. "In al l cases tha-ceonmISSion must. seek to assurefiindartierital faimeSS of the.
process. It must not only befair; it mist feel fair to those affected...." (see
I
Advisory Opinion #3)
c. Commission are reminded to fallow 0-9.0505b(1) closely in order to guarantee
fair process and afford an opportunity to be heard to all those affected. Such a
hearing may happen at thepresbytery meetingbefore the final action is taken.
"When an administrative commission has been appointed to settle differences within
I. a church, a governing body, or an organization of the church, it shall, before Making
its final decision, afford to all persons to be affected by the decision fair notice and an
opportunity to be heard on the makers at issue. (See G-9.0503a(3), G-9.0505a(5), 0-
9.0505b-d) Fair notice shall consist of a short and plain statement of the matters at
issue as identified by the commission and of the time and place for a hearing upon the
matters at issue. The hearing shall include at least an opportunity for all persons in
interest to have their positions on-the matters at issue stated orally."
D. How best to move forward is dependent to some degree on who is leading the schism.
1. Ministers.
Unfortunately;it is often the pastor who leads the congregation into schism. lithe
presbytery becomes aware of this possibility early in the process it may utilize the
provisions of G-6.0502 to intervene.
a. "When a church officer, after consultation and notice, persists in a work
disapproved by the governing, body having jurisdiction, the governing body may
presume that the officer has renounced the jurisdiction of this church:' (G-6.0502)
b. The presbytery can often identify an action that would thither steps toward schism
and direct the minister net to do them. (Examples: instruct the minister not to call
a congregationalmeeting to discuss schism, or direct minister not, to send a letter to
the congregation or an advocacy or affinity group)
c. Presbyteries need to carefully follow the processes described in 2004 by the
General Assembly in response to Item OS-02, where the Assembly adopted, an outline
with which to implement G-6.0502:
1) The governing body must disapprove the work of the officer (Wilson v.
Presbytery of Donegal, Remedial Case 206-8, Minutes, 1994; Part 1, p. 149,
11.091).
2) The governing body must notify the officer that it has disa„. _ _
FPC 001260
work and that he/she is prohibited from engaging in such work as an officer of the
church (Stimage-Narwaod is: Presbytery of Southern New England, Remedial
Case214-7'; 1v1inutes, 2002, Part f, p.344).
3.) If the officer engages in the:prohibited Work after the no6re of disapproval
and prohibition, the governing body must consult with the officer and notify
him/her of the consequences of his/her action, i.e., that his/her persisting in the
work may result in a presumption of renunciation of jurisdiction.
r 4) If the officer persists in the prohibited work after such consultation and notice,
the governing body may presume that he/she has renounced. the jurisdiction of
the churchAf the governing body so deter-Mines, it shall notify the officer of its
derision.
5) The officer has the right to challenge the governing body's determination
and to speak on the floor of the governing body in so doing. He/she also has the
right to file a remedial case.challenging the governing body's determination of
renunciation (D-6.0100). (Minutes, 2004, Part I, p. 387)
d, But the Assembly drew asharp distinction between renunciation of jurisdiction
and discipline
"The term 'work disapproved bY the governing body' relates to the exercise of the
vocation of a minister of the. Word and Sacrament or the official conduct of church
business for which a deacon or elder was elected. It does not relate to particular acts
of ministry; or to behavior; that might be considered an offense under the Constitution
(D-2.0203). One can be presumed to have renounced jurisdiction because of
persisting in disapproved work following consultation and notice, only if the work is
engaged in after the disipproval of the work and if it is-persisted in following a
warning of the consequences."
e. So, if a minister has already engaged in active advocacy of schism (denounced.
the PC(USA), advocated withdrawal, or Somehow violated her/his G-14.0405 vows),
then the presbytery must protted to appoint an investigating committee under the.
terms of D-10.0102; D-10.0201,
2. Sometimes the session will also be actively engaged in schismatic activities.
a., If it :is only a group of individual elders, the presbytery might decide to-assume
original jurisdiction over the session's G-19.0102r powers (discipline) and acting as
the session, discipline those individual elders following the Rules of Discipline.
b. If the Whole, or a majority, of the session is involved in schismatic activity, the
presbytery may need to 'appoint an administrative commission to act in place of, or
beside, the session.
c. ff the presbytery has inforination that a declaration of schism is imminent, the
empowering motion should give the commission original jurisdiction over the
session's G-10.0102 authority to prevent the session from taking actions in.
furtherance of schism.
9
FPC 001261
0flerr it is a good idea in these SettingS to Condition the assumption of original
jurisdiction (GAL0103s) upOn some particular action of the session (i.e. calling a
congregational meeting to - vote on withdrawing,. beginning to. transfer assets, etc.)
e. In any case; the .session must receive Specific notice of the motion coming to
the presbytery meeting that creates the administrativ-e tortimission and gives the
poWer "to asstuna original jurisdiction Many case in. which it determines that a
session cannot exercise its authority. Whenever, alter a thorough investigation, ➢nd
after fa opportunity to be heard his been accorded to the session in question, the
presbytery ofjiniscliction shall determine that the session of a particular church is
unable or unwilling to manage wisely the affairs- of- ifs church,,, the presbytery may
appoint an adMinistrative commission (0-9:0503) with the full power of asession.
This commission shall assume original jurisdiction of the existing sessioni-if any,
which shall cease to act until such time as the presbytery shall otherwise direct;"
(0-1.I.01130
E. Tasks of the administrative commission: attempting to "settle the difficulties" (G-
9.0503a.(4))
1. The first step is to do some fact finding of its-own. -At this stage the clinunission will
normally interview session members. and congregational members to determine if there is
a loyal minim* to protect. Usually the commissionwill be given information by the
presbytery, but it needs to use that information to assess the level of ...difficulties".
2. If the session takes the "forbidden" actions and if the session has had notice and an
Opportunity to attempt to convince the presbytery not to appoint and empower an
administrative commission, the commission may decide to assume jurisdiction (G-
11_0103s) because the session is "unable or unwilling to manage wisely the affairs- of its
church ...."
a. As noted above, this is nal MI "all or nothing" proposition. Choose authority
carefully: 'Web of the session's G-10.0102 powers are the "problem"? Which, or
all, does the commission need to- take on?
"The session is responsible for the mission and government of the particular ctaitch.
It therefore has the responsibility and power" (G-10.0102)
I) "to receive membed into the church upon profession of faith, upon
reaffirmation of faith in Jesus Christ, or upon satisfactory certification of transfer
of church membership, provided that membership -shall not be denied any person
because of race, economic or social circumstances, or any other reason not related
to profession of faith" (G-10.0102b.)
2) "to lead the congregation in participation in the mission of the whole Church'
in the world, in accordance with 0-3.0000;" (G-10.0102c.)
F
3) "to challenge the people of God with the privilege of responsible Christian
stewardship of money and time and talents, developing effective ways for
encouraging and gathering the offerings of the people and asst ' "
tO
FPC 001262
offetin gs are distribined to -the (*seta toward 'Which they: Weretontribn tedif
(G--10.0102h.)
4) "to establish the annual budget, determine: the:distribution of the church's
b:enevolences, and:order Offerings for Chriatianitturposescproviding RAI
information to-the congregation of its decisions in such matters;"-(C-)01.02i..)
4) "to lead :the congregation cbrifinuallylo: discover what Godis doing hi the
world and to planfor change, renewal, and refiarmatien under theWOrd of Godt7
(G-16.0102.0
5) "to instruct, examine, ordain, install,: And weicoine into. C01/1111 00 ministry
elders and deacons on their election by the/congregation and In inquire into their
faithfulness ill fulfilling their respansibilities;'"(G-ICt.GiO2t):
:"tb provide for the administration of theprogram of the church, including
employment ofrionOrdainedatag with concern for equal employment
opportunity, fair employment practices; personnel policies, and the annual review-
of the adequacy of compensation for all Staff, including all :employees;"
(G:‘10.1110211)
7): "to provide for the management of the property of the church,;incltiding
determination of the appropriAte use of church buildings: and facilities, •
and to obtain property and liability insurance coverage to protect the facilities,
programs, and officers, including, members of the session, staff, board of
arid deactins;" (6- 1 CLOTO2ci.)
8) "to maintain, regular and continuing relationship to the higher governing
bodies of the church, including" (Cr 0.0102p.)
a) "electing; commissioners to presbytery and receiving their reports; sessions
are encouraged, to elect commissioners to the presbytery font least one year,
preferably two or thtee;" (G-10.0102p.(1))
b) "nominating to presbytery elders who may be considered for election M
synod or General Assembly;" (G-10.Q102p:(2))
c) "in both the abOve. responsibilities, implementing the principles of
participation and inblualveneas to ensure fair representation in the decision
making of the churth;" (G,1:0.0102p,(3))
d) "observing and carrying. out the instructions of the higher governing
bodies consistent with the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.Al
(0- I 0.0102P.E01
e) "welcoming representatives of the presbytery on the occasions of their
I visits;" (G-1.0.01 02p. (5))
0 "sending annually to the stated clerk of the presbytery statistical and other
FPC 001263
information according-to the requirements of the presbytery_"(G- I 0_01.0447D
9) "to serve in judicial -matters in accordance with the Rules of Discipline;"
(G-1.0.0102r.) .
10)"io keep an accurate roll of the membership; oldie church, ill accordance with
G-I 0_03.02,, and to grant certificates of transfer to other churches, which when
issued for parents shall include the names of their children specifying whether
they have been. baptized; and which when issued Loran elder or-deacon.hall:
include the record;.of ordination." 0.0102s.)
F. After the administra tiVe commission has taken over:
Presbyteries are advised to remember that property disputes are about effective ministryand
not merely about property law - such an approach will make all the difference. This means
that a commission will normally need to be doing ecclesial activities (pastoral care,
discipline, etc.) while at the same- time pursuing some more temporal activities.
I. Freeze the assets..
a. Real Estate -File Lis Pendens - Cite the. trust clause (G-8.0201 as the basis.
b. Liquid Assets - Seridiletter to holder of bank and trust accounts. Tell them:
I) We are the Administrative Commission.
2) We are appointed by the Presbytery with jurisdiction over this congregation_
3) Quote the trust clause 0-8.3220I) and note that theproperty is held in trust
and that our Constitution (G-8.0601) gives the presbyter)? the duty to. determine
whd "is entitled to the property"
4) Currently we aretrying to evaluate the situation.
5) Please do not release or modify holdings until we have completed our
ecclesiastical processes.
c. Building andproperty - change the locks and secure- the grounds if necessary.
2. The commission should try to keep the presbytery in a "defensive" secular legal
posture. (Let the schismatics seek Caesar'shelp)
1- Organize the loyal minority the presbytery can identify one. Declare them to be
the "true church" and thus entitled to the property.
"The relationship In the Presbyterian church (U.S.A.) of a particular church can be
severed only by constitutional action on the part of the presbytery. (e-11„0103) If there
is a schism within the membership of a particular church and the presbytery is unable to
effect a reconciliation or a division into separate churches within the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.), the presbytery shall determine if one ofthe factions is entitled to the property
because it is identified by the presbytery as the true church within the Pr^c1-4-ninn
z
FPC 001264
Church (U.S.A.). This. determination does not depend apart which faction received the
majority vote within the particular church at the time of the sehism." (a-8-0661)
a. It falls within the purview of the presbytery to determine whether schism exists
within a congregation.° (G-8.0601,:0-11.0103) fostich a case, the presbytery
determines which Members repre§erit the true church. (a-810601) It is tht presbytery
that is responsible for confronting advocates of schism. The presbytery has a number
cif "tools". that the ,Ccrnstinition provides:
I) With individuals the presbytery determines whether a person is attempting to
"...peaceably withdraw from our communion.Without attenipting to make any
schism"7 (which is an individual's-dill* If an individual officer advocates
schism, a session or presbytery may undertake judicial process'and declare such
action to be an offense. (D:-2.0203b) The officer may be censured; after trial.
2) If the presbytery determines that the pastor is inciting schiSm within a
congregation, it may remove (G-11.0103nflo.) or authorize its commission to
remove (G-9.0503a.(4)) Sucha schismatic minister of the Word and Sacrament,
from service to that.Oongregation.
3) When a session has advocated or taken action to effectuate schism the
presbytetymay, declare such action to be: irregular. (G-9..0410,17-2.0202a.)
'b These actions should be taken as a "last resort," only after all efforts at restoration
and reconciliation have.been undertaken: Presbyteries are strongly encouraged to
visit each such officer or session so affected.
a Use "spiritual" language (name "sin" to be "sin"? use Scriptural references, call
for repentance). People who desire to leave Often seek to minimize the commitment
to Jesus of those who represent the governing bodies of the church (such as.
presbytery representatives). Make sure all know this is a church dispute!
(3. Making property decisions.
1. The presbytery may retain the property forfwith a loyal minority.
2. If there is no loyal minority thepresbytery may dissolve the congregation (0-
8.0401, G-11.01.030 and utilize the assets, feat and personal, for another mission of
the presbytery./
. 1
a. If therehas been a "dispersal of its members, the abandonment of its work", the
church property may be "applied for such uses, purposes and trusts as the
J presbytery may direct, limit, and appoint, or such property may be sold or disposed
".-It is the presbytery which determines the true and loyal congregation era particular church in which a schism
exists even if the entire congregatilm,voiestmanithously to leave the denomination (G-8.0601). This authority has
been a part of Preslayterianisrasinte its inception-during the Kefallinia') of the Century." (quoted fronr
response to Request 90.04 (2002 GA Minutes-, 1990, p. 249))
7 Endnote ALI to Chapters of Form of Government
'I Tim GA PIC recently-affirmed a presbytery's right to du So and its right to delegate the implementation to an
administrative commission. RemedialCase 2 12-5,.Sesslon, Second Presbyterian Church, Tulsa °Hairpins v
Presbytery. of East Oklahoma,.
13
FPC 001265
of as the-preshytery may direct." (04.0401)
b4 The decision to dissolve and the decision as tio hatv to utilize the assets should be
madeon the basis of the presbytery's strategy fOr Presbyterian mission within its
geographical district (a- .t I .01 Oa, a-11.0103h)
I) For instance, the presbytery could use the assets to. begin a new immigrant
fellowship in-that community.
2) If the presbytery has no such immediate or imminent plan to advance its
mission in that region, but expects it might in the future, it could enter into a long
term lease with the schismatic group:
a) The presbytery will need to check state real estate law to assure that this
is. possible.
4) The lease should recite the presbytery's property interest in the real
estate and provide that all improvements become the property of the
presbytery. The lease should obligate the schismatic group M maintain and
insure the property and should have a process far orderly transition of
possession to the presbytery at the occurrence of some identifiable future
event.
c, The presbytery may sell to the splinter group.
1) Theymay sell the building.
2) They Might release money.
3) The decisions depend on the facts; use G-11.0103 as criteria. Again, the
"yardstick" is the presbytery's "strategy for mission." "The presbytery is
responsible for the mission and government of the church throughout its
geographical district It therefore has the responsibility and power" (0-11.0103)
a) "to develop strategy for the mission of the church in its area consistent
with 0-3.0000;" (G-11.0103a.)
b) "to coordinate the work of its member churches, guiding them and
mobilizing their strength for the most effective witness to the broader
community for which it has responsibility;" (0-11.0103b.)
c) "to Counsel with a particular church where the various constituencies of
the congregation are not represented on a session;" (CT-11.0103e.)
4) The commission should be given the power to negotiate the property and
dissolution decisions, but not the power to act on behalf of presbytery. See GA
Minutes, 1995, Fart 1., pp.281-282, paragraph 21.128:" The final approval of a
strategic plan, however, is a responsibility that the presbytery ought not to
delegate. Included in this decision are: ,.. i. to divide, dismiss, or dissolve
churches in consultation with their- members; ..." .
14
FPC 001266
PRESBYTERIES MAY RELEASE CONGREGATIONS
A. The authority is found- in G41,01031 and 0-11.0103y,
"The presbytery la responsible forthernissiOn and goveminent o f the church throughout its
geographical district It therefore-has. the responsibility and power— (G-11.0103).
1 "to divide, dismiss, or dissolve churChes in consultation with their members;"
(G-11.01030
2, "to consider and act upon requests from congregations for permission to take the.
1 actions regarding real property as-described in G-8.0000;" (Gr,11.0103y.)
a. The property trust clause (G-8.0201) IS in favor of presbyteries.
"All property held by or for a particular church, a presbytery, a synod, the.Generat
Assembly; or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), whether legal title is (edged in a
corporation, a trustee or trustees, or an unincorporated association, and whether the
property is used in progr'am's of a particular church or of a more inclusive governing
body or retained for the production of income, is held in trust nevertheless for the use
and benefit of the Presbyterian. Church (U.S A.)." (G-8.0201)
b. The presbytery has the power to decide disposition of real property. (G-8.0401)
"Whenever a particular church is formally dissolved by the presbytery, or has become
extinct by reason of the dispersal of its members, the abandonment of its work, or
other cause, such property as it may have Shall be held, used, and applied for such
uses, purposes, and trusts as the presbytery may direct, limit, and appoint, or such
property may be sold or disposed of as the presbytery may direct, in conformity With
the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)." (0-8.0401)
B. General Assembly approval is not required. However, the General Assembly has at
times issued authoritative statements that may be helpful about this topic.
1. GA Minutes: 1988, p.I41, paragraph 12.231b:
"A presbytery maydismiss a church with its property pursuant to 0-11.0103i and G-
I 1.0103y, provided proper consideration is given to the interests of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.) as provided in Chapter VIE In particular, G-8.0201 recognizes the:
principle that all property by or for a particular church is held in trust for the use and
benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), Thus the Presbyterian church (U.S.A.) is a
party in interest when.a presbytery takes action with respect to a request to dismiss a
church with its property. Both traditions in our present denomination haye always held
that church property of any kind is held in trust For the use and benefit of the
denomination as a whole; even though both differed somewhat in its application of this
principle to churches wishing to withdraw from the denomination. This implied principle
is now explicit in our present Form of Government (G-8.0201) and was also explicitly
written into both Constitutions prior to reunion,"
15
FPC 001267
r-i
2- GA Minutes, 19&9, p. 226, paragraph 21.194:
"When dealing with a request by a church for dismissal with its property pursuant to 0-
I. I-0103i and G-l1.0 I 03y, the presbytery-is responsible for exercising the expressed trust
provisions of G4.0291 recognizing and protecting the interests of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.). Separate conskieration should be given to the questions of dismissing
the congregation, the disposal of property, and the relationships of ministers of the Word
and Sacrament."
3. GA Minutes, 1989,, p. 226, paragraph 2 t. I 95;
"Each request for dismissal should be considered in thelight of the partioular situation
and circumstances involved. If guidelines are established, it should be done with extreme
caution. Anyguidelines which restrict_ resbytery in its .deliberations and in the exercise
of its responsibility and authority Might be subject to question in a cage of judicial
process Within the church. Instead of establishing guidelines a presbytery might be better
advisednx trust its good judgment in particular situations,"
4. CA Minutes, 1990, p. 25.2, paragraph 21.270d
"3. If, after June 10, 1991, a congregatitin requests to be diSmissed.with its property,
r does; presbytery have authority under G-11.01011 and G-11 ..01.03y•to consider and act on.
f
the request?"
5 QA Minutes, 1990, p, 252, paragraph 21.270k
"3. Yes. A presbytery has authority under G-1 1.0103i and 0-11.0103y to consider and
act on any request ofn church to be dismissed with its property:I'
C. Give proper consideration to the long term effects. "Eadh request for dismissal should
be considered in light of the particular situation and circumstances involved:" (GA Minutes,
1989,.p. 226, paragraph 21.195)
I. The 'measuring stick": Would releasing the property advance "the mission and
government of the church FPC(USA)1 throughout its geographical district'?
(G-1I.0103)
2. Would releasing the property assist tbe presbytery "to coordinate: the work of its
member churches, guiding them and mobilizing their strength for the most effective
witness to the broader community for Which it has responsibilitY;"? (G-11.01o3b.)
D. But a congregation may not be released to "independence"; it may only be
released to another reformed denomination. (Strong-and Bagby vs: Synod of Mid South:.
GA Minutes, PCUS, 1976, p. 92; Anderson vi. Synod of Florida, GA Minutes, PCUS,
1974, p. 119)
1. Strong and Baghy vs. Synod ofMid South: GA Minutes, PCUS, 1976, p. 92
This leads to the second question. Assuming thatsotne form of delegation of the
dismissal power by presbytery to an administrative commission might be-permissible„ to
what ecclesiastical bodies might presbytery authorize it to make dismissals? Clearly
presbytery could not authorize a commission to effect dismissals which presbytery itself
could.not effect. There ire constitutional limits on presbytery's power here. They were
expressed in 1974 by the Genera' Assetn.bly in the case ofHarvard 4-` _,..._
16
FPC 001268
Syilod of Florida„ Minutes of the 114th General Assembly, pp. 119-f21 (1974). That case,
decided after adoption of the resolution in question, held that a presbytery Could rat
constitutionally distills,* its churches to 'independency" nor to any specified body except
another presbytery of this denomination or of ecclesiastical bodies with which Ulan; with
this denomination is permitted by the Book of Church Order. These tarter include, in
addition to certain specifically identified denominations,. BCO 31.1,,any other
ecclesiastical' body 'whose organization is conformed: to the doctrines_ and: order of this
11 Church:" BCO I8-6(13),(17). This case remains the law of the Church, and it would
clearly prohibit the delegation.by presbytery. (even were delegation generally permissible)
of carte blanche power to an administrative commission to dismiss to ecclesiasfical
•1 bodies: not falling within the stated category: Whether another ecclesiastical body does
fall within the general classiticationmentioned is itself a matter ofjudgmeat which must
be determined by the dismissing- authority as a precondition to dismissal. NO such
I determination was formally made by the Preibytery of East Alabania in this case, nor did
it require either its administrative commission or the sessions or congregations of its
churches to make any such determination. ha: this broader respect also, the action of the
presbytery is in violatiba of the law of the denomination as declared in the Anderson
case. (Minutes,_ PCUS; 1976, Fart 1, Strong and Nth: vs Judiciol Commission of
the Synod ofthe Mid-South, pp: 94-95)
2. Anderson vs. Synod 'of Florida, GA iltinu tess PCUS, 1974, p. 119
Thii policy likewise.orbids the dismissal of a church without specifying where it
goes. An Independent" or "congregational" Presbyterian.chnrch is. an anomaly which
runs: counter to the notion that we area "farnily" of churches-and dismissal must therefore
be made to another church within the family group. We hold, therefore, that BCO § 16-
I. 7(8) restricts a presbytery in dismissing a church to the necessity of doing so to another
ecclesiastical Jurisdiction and forbids dismissal to independency.
"Accordingly, the preliminary judgment of the Permanent Judicial Commission is that the
I. Presbytery of Florida erred in dismissing the three churches to independent status. We
therefore affirm the action of the Synod of Florida sustaining, the report of its Judicial
Commission and denying Mr. Gwaltriey's complaint thereto_
I. "A presbytery clearly has the constitutional right to dismiss a church to another
presbytery. Complaint of WA Soty and J.B. Long us. Presbytery of Eastern Texas,
Digest of the Acts and Proceedings of General Assembly of Presbyterian Church U.S.,
1861-1965, Judicial Case NoA4, 324-.25 (1966): We further hold that a presbytery can
dismiss a church to the ecclesiastical bodies with which union is permitted. These bodies
I include Churches within our own denomination, the United Presbyterian Church of the
United States, the Reformed Church in America, (13C0 § 311) or any other ecclesiastical
body "whose organization is conformed to the doctrines and order of this church," BCO §
18:6(l3)., (17). Although presbytery has great latitude in the exercise of its dismissal
jurisdiction.„ it does not have an absolute and unlimited power. The Florida Presbytery
had no constitutional right ta dismiss the three churches to independent status.
"Accordingly, the proper procedure for any Presbytery to which request is hereafter made
:for dismissal "to independency," or without any designation, or to any institution other
than one described in this opinion is to decline to entertain the request as lying beyond its
constitutional powers...." (Anderson vs. Synod of Florida, GA Minutes,: PCUS, 1974,
p.119)
17'
FPC 001269
C. if a congregation is dissolved, its records belong to the presbytery and the presbytery
should take care to assure that it has control of those records before dissolving or releasing a
congregation. (G-9.0406)
F. An le 13 (Procedure For Dismissal of a Congregation with its Property) is no. longer
applicable, The period for a decision of congregation to depart with its property has expired.
• 1
V_ Finally„ the Office of the General Assembly reminds: the church that not once in our history
hagschism ever advanced the Gospel; but rather,:always.has diminished IL_ The Reunion
Assembly of11369 .nbled• Reunion "latiriet. the suspicions and riValties of the past, With the sad
necessity of magnifying our differences in order to justify-our separation_ It banishes the spirit Of-
division, the natural foe of true progress. In this union are seen the outflashing of divine
purpose to lead us on to greater self-sacrifice and a more entire consecration to the ,
evangelization-of the World. God has elevated us to this commandingpotititin, that we may see
his glory, and in the strengthened faith it inspires devote our united resources more-directly and
efficiently to the salvation of men [and womenj."9
Prepared by; The Department of Constitutional Services
The Office of the General Assembly
Mark Tammen
September 2005
Digcm, Part U. p. 1333
18
FPC 001270
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
ATTORNEY WORK COMMUNICATIC
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
This is a legal strategy memorandum. Do not copy or circulate. ('all Eric
Graninger, General Counsel, at 1-888-728-72a x 5369 if you have questions.
CHURCH PROPERTY DISPUTES:
A RESOURCE FOR THOSE REPRESENTING
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (U.S.A.) PRESBYTERIES AND
TRUE CHURCHES IN THE CIVIL COURTS
Page
1. Introduction 1
IL State-by-State Church Property Review, the Basks,
and Some Strategies.
III, Presenting the Presbyterian. Church (II,S.A.) as a
Hierarchical Church.
IV. Presenting the Property Trust Clatise,
V. Presenting Factors that Show the Connection between
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), and the Church at Issue. 1.1
VI: Overview of U.S.. Supreme Court Cases. 13
VII. Other Resources. 25
L Introduction
This resource is written by the Office of Legal Services for those representing the
interests of presbyteries and true churches as identified by the presbyteries. It is written for both
attorneys and non-attorneys Involve the presbytery attorney early on if a dispute related to
church property is developing. The attorney will be able to advise the presbytery in light of the
applicable law and the particular facts presented.
A companion piece to this memorandum is the resource prepared by the Constitutional
Services Department of the Office of the General Assembly: That resource discusses the factors
and strategies presbyteries should consider as church property matters arise within the governing
bodies of the church. By contrast, this resource focuses upon church property disputes-within the
courts.
Finally this memo uses "Presbyterian Church:' "Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)," and
"PCUSA" interchangeably and in reference to various time periods. Only where the speci fic
point being made relates to a particular predecessor denomination is dint denomination named.
FPC 001271
-t
This therm, also uses the terms 'schism" and "schismatics." The PCUSA Cans-titutlion refers to
schisms.
H. State-by-Statethurch Property Review, the Basics, and So me
Strategies
State-by-State Church Property Review
The Offite of Legal Services has prepared a state-by-state (plus Puerto Rico and
Washington, D.C.) summary of church property law. In response to. the U.S. Supreme Court's
1979 Jones v. Wolf decision, each state forged its own particular mechanisms for deciding church
property disputes. Begin with the church property review and the pertinent cases; for-your
state, It is important to understand the- rules your state has adopted. Of course, the: actual cases
and nay statutes should be read to determine hoW they appl&" to the facts presented,. Be certain to
involve the presbytery attorney_ Only an attorney licensed in your state and representing the
presbytery's interests can give the full services needed. If your state's property review is not
attached at the end of this memorandum, call Eric Graninger, General Counsel, at .1 -R88-728-
7228, ext. 5369 to secure a copy.
TheBasies
Pursuant to the Jones v. Wolf decision, most states will apply one of three mechanisms
for deciding church property disputes. The first two are the most common:.
1. Hierarchical deference rule: Where the local church is part of a largerhierarchical
church, the court will defer to the decision of the highest church governing body that has
considered the matter. The court will award the property control pursuant to that
decision,
2-; Neutral principles doctrine: The court reviews the language of property deeds, the local
church charters, state statutes concerningchurch property, and the provisions of the
1 denominational constitution concerning the ownership and control of church property.
3. Presumptive majority representation, defeasible upon a showing that the identity of
the local church is to be determined by other Means: The majority vote of the
congregation is presumed to control, except in a hierarchical church the majority rule
may be overcome where the church charter or denominational constitution has
established a property trust or other means to decide the dispute.
Some Strategies
• After you have determined the pertinent rules for deciding church property
disputes in your state, strategies:, for the case can beimplemented—For example, if
your state follows a: basic hierarchical deference rule, then it will be most important to
demonstrate the PCUSA as a hierarchical church and show the court the central. authority
. 2
FPC 001272
of the presbytery in Making church property and related. detisions. ..Ifyour state applies
the neutral principles doctrine, then it will be important to note all hierarchical references
in the deeds, the local church chatter, and especially to-emPhashe the church _property
trust arid the central authority- oft:he presbytery under Chapter VIII of the Book of Order,
the property chapter. If your state applies the third option, it is an uphill battle.. The. Book.
of Order, property chapter and Other provisions showing the authority of presbytery will
be: especially important. Sections III, IV, and V afthis Merfloranduniset forth prokisions
that should be useful to you in proving the presbytery's case to the court.
• Secure the property (both real Arid persOnat) Of the local Church. FAe: en affidavit of
property trust on. the real estate. The affidavit is Median the public records for the
purpose of warning all persons the the real property Es in dispute. The affidavit is
for the purpose of preserving the rights of the presbytery arid true church pending the
dispute. Moreover, send a letter to all banks and other institutions that hold
accounts for the particular church. Inform the institution:
The presbytery has jurisdiction over the local church and its assets
About the property clause and other pertinent property chapter provisions
▪ That issues are pending
That no assets be released or their title changed pending firther notice from the
presbytery; make this a directive to the institution
• Put, the presbytery's and the local church's insurance companies on notice. Where
the presbytery and true church are in the position of defendants, insurance May respond
with coverage or a defense. This is a very important benefit because it covers attorneys
fees. Be sure to: notify the insurance companypromptly as the dispute arises; Most
insurance policies requireprompt notice or coverage may be denied or limited_ Note,
however, you do not want to use the insurance company's standard attorneys in
cases such as this. Press hard on the insurance company to accept an attorney of the
presbytery's choosing. This should be an attorney familiar with such cases and/or
PCUSA polity., Let the insurance company and the attorney work out the fee
arrangement
• The Office of the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly has some funds available to
assist presbyteries when a Church is in; schism or its property is being used contrary
to the Constitution. If you are interested in the availability of these funds, the
presbytery's stated Clerk should make contact with the Office of the General Assembly,
Department of Constitutional Services.
• If you initiate tile lawsuit, name the defendants as schismatics in the complaint and
the caption. This will regularly remind the court of what the. central issue is.before it
TtliePi-eibYtery's authaiiiTterdeferniine. the irue Choral-arid; the fact the court iiiust defer
to.the ecclesiastical deCisions of the church - governing body. Example: "Presbytery of
Middle Wyoming.v. The.Schisrnatic. and Purported Covenant Presbyterian Church
of Lands burgh."
3
FPC 001273
• if the case law is faVoMble to the presbytery M your file a Matfett tot Summary
judgment as soon at practicable. it is not helpful to .allow the schismatics to develop a
record when the-presbytery has already taken its actions and, under the polity, the result
is known. Where the law of your state is firm for the presbytery; move forward with a
motion for summary judgment. Knoviing- they cannot interfere in ecclesiastica di sputeS,
many judges will look favorably upon a nfotion for sunmaryjudgment to dispose of such
cases..
• Inert members and/or ministers have retrain ced the jurisdiction of the, church;
point out to the court alitpleas they have left themembership of the church and,
so, do not hAve standing to represent the local. Presbyterian church in a civil court.
• Where theschismatic faction has failed to appeal the rulings of the presbytery; point
th is' ciu t to the court. This is important fora least two interrelated reasons: First, it
reminds the court the PCUSA is a church of successive governing bodiek that have the
responsibility and power to review the decisions of a lower governing body When local
church members disagree: with the actions of the presbytery, they have-a landarnenta I
right to appeal thoserufings to the synod an& ultimately, to the General Assembly.
Second, civil courtsare familiar With the ddcttine of exhaustion of administrative
remedies. In the civil forth of this dectrine, a patty nnist_eXhanst all available agency
administrative remedies and appeals bcfOrc knots:to the civil courts for relief. Because
this is a common concept in the civil law, judges should understand this is a reason to
dismiss the case as agaitast the schismatics because they failed to exha...:_ct their remedies
within the church court system. PloperlYapPlied, this concept Conserves: judicial:
resources and keeps civil courts out of controversies rietpreper for their determination_
• Determine the religious background of your judge. The judge's religious baCkground
will likely influence the way the presbytery's case is viewed, at least initially, For
example, a judge frobil hierarchical cherch,(Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Methodist,
&Oman Catholic) Will understand there is an authority above the local church. For a
judge from an episcopal system, it is, very helpful to say,,u'llie presbytery is the bishop?'
That type of straightforwardstatement fundamentally informs a: judge is
knowledgeable of at episcopal nitem. In. contrast, if the judge. is-from an independent or
congregational background (Baptist),..then it may be more challenging: to educate the
judge on the wide rangeof auditkity a presbYtety haSoVer a particular Olitarbh, especially
in regards to prdperty matters. '
• Use affidavits and church-recognized experts to demonstrate the pOlity of the
PCUSA• Caselew severely restricts civil courts from making ecclesiastical decisions.
Civil courts are required. to defer to,t,4!-SOlgiolAs. body in ecclesiastical,.doetrinalyand
polity deciaions. Because- of these factors, it is important to present the Book of Order
and other ecclesiastical rriaterialt via an affidavit. See sections III, IV, and V for the
various matters that could be presented to the civil court. An affidavit should be issued
by a middle governing body Officer or a-General Astembly officer_ Using a General
4"
FPC 001274
Assembly officer will reemphasize thelderarchical nature of the PCUSA to the court
Also,. Q,2-e of the Standing Rules-of the General Assembly charge the General Assembly
Stated Clerk with the responsibility of giving advlsory bpiniohs concerning the marlin.
of the PCUSA Constitution. The Office of Legal SerViccs can assist with the types of
affidavits you need in your case. Again, the substance of the affidavit Will likely tontairr
the information set out in Sections 111, IV, and V of .this memorandum. The opening
'1 provisions of the affidavit should provide:
The affianrs name. Use reverend if applicable_
Tfte title of the affiant and how long they have worked in that position.
• All degrees and the institutions from which received.
• Note if a minister, year of ordination, preSbytery membership.
Ether set out all of the provisiOns that are Of importin the hod)v of the affidavit
or state something like the following: "I have reviewed the Statement of Facts
contained in the Brief in Support of the Presbytery of 's Motion for
Summary Judgment in this action. Based upon my personal knowledge and
expertise, that Statement of Facts is true and correct, and I incorporate it into this
affidavit by. reference.—
• Keep the original church name and corporation within the PCUSA. At the end of the
process, either the presbytery itself or the true congregation loyal to the presbytery should
retain the original church's name and corporate entity_ This is for two reasons: First, it
reduces confusion because the long-existing PCUSA church remains. PCUSA. Second,
present endowments and future estates will be in the original name of the local church.
Keeping the name and corporation with the true church (pr the presbytery) loyal, to
PCUSA should ensure thesefunds remain secure_
Lit. Presenting the Presbyterian Church (U.S..4.)- as a Hierarchical Church
Certainly, the Presbyterian Chmch(U_S.A.) (PCUSA) does not refer to itself as a
hierarchical church. When speaking to a civil coart,, however; ft is important to use the language
the court. uses; The courts distinguish between independent or congregational churches on the
one hand.and. hierarchical churches on the other. Firmly present the PCUSA to the Court as a
hierarchical church.. This section focuses upon the factors. to demonstrate to the court the
PCUSA is hierarchical:
• The United States Supreme Court has consistently recognized the Presbyterian
Church as hierarchical; Watson v. Jones, May Elizabeth•Blue Hui/ and Jones v. Wolf;
cite to these decisions.. (See Section VI) The courts in many states have made similar
rulings,
• - l resources recogniie the Presbyterian Church as hierarchical:
Secondary lega
Determination, of Property Rights Between. Local Choral and Parent Church
EtOcly: Aetteeir View, 52 A LR3.d 324, 334 (listing the Presbyterian Church as
5
FPC 001275
hierarchical with control over local church property.), and 417 ("Although the
Presbyterian form of church government is without question hierarchical, there
has been a considerable amount of litigation over the right of local Presbyterian
churches to withdraw from the general church and. retain the use and control of
local church property.. [Titus right is uniformly denied, CM the ground that the
local Presbyterian church stands in a hierarchical relationship to the general
church, with respect to property matters as in other areas." (Footnotes omitted)).
Although this law report is dated (1974), its description of.the Presbyterian
Church as hierarchical is apt
Hands Offl Civil Court Involvement in Conflicts Over Religious Property, 98
Colum. L. Rev. 1843 (1998). This article recognizes the PCUSA as hierarchical.
Id. at In. See Section VII.
a Of course, the Book of Order is replete with provisions that demonstrate the
hierarchical nature of the PCUSA. This part of the memorandum sets out some of the
best polity examples of the hierarchical nature of the PCUSA.
The four:level system of governing bodies shows the hierarchical structure of the PCUSA.
PCUSA has four levels of goiterning bodies; each 'Wier governing body It as tire power to
review and change the actions of the lower governing body.
The PCUSA is a body of Reformed Christians who. have agreed to conduct their worship,
discipline, governance, and otherreligious. activities in conformity with the then current
version of the PCUSA Constitution. The Constitution consists of the Book of Confessions
(Part I) and the Book of Order (Part II). (G-1.0500) The Book of Order includes the
Rules of Discipline, theDirected for. Worship, and the Form of Government, a detailed
formal structure of the church.. The Book of Order sets: forth the ecclesiastical polity of
the church. (G-1.0300) The abbreviations used for these three sections are D, W, and G,
respectively.
• There are four governing bodies of the PCUSA: session of the church, presbytery,
synod, and General Assembly. (079.0101) All governing bodies are united by the
nature of the church and share rights and tittles under the Constitution. Though
separate and independent, the governing bodies have such mutual relations that the act of
one of them is the act of the whole church performed by it through the appropriate
governing body. The jurisdiction of each governing body is limited by the express
provisions of this Constitution, with powers, not mentioned being reserved in the
presbyteries, and with the acts of each governing body subject to review by the next
higher governing body. (G-9.0103)
The property chapter shows the hierarchical nature of die PCUSA. All property is held in
trust for the PCUSA. The presbytery has ultimate authority over local church property-and, in
the case of a schism., declares which faction is the true church.. See. Section IV for a full
discussion of the property trust.
6
FPC 001276
All property, both real and personal, no matrerhow it is titled or held, is had in; trust for
the PCUSA. (G-8;13201)
• The presbytery is-authorized to take control ola local church's property 1).-when the
church is dissolved by the presbytery or extinct, (3-8-0401); 2) when the church property
is being used contrary to the PCUSA Constitution, (GI8,0301); 3) when the church. is. in
schism. (0:8.0600)
• When a schism arises, it is the presbytery that declares which faction is the• true. church;
that determination does net rely- upon which faction received the majority vote Of the
congregation.. (0-2.0600
When a church seeks to encumber or lease its property,. it must secure the permission of
the-presbytery. (0-8;05.01, 8.0502)
The presbytery's authority over ministers shows the hierarchical natureof the PCUSA. A
local church cannot call a minister without the act of presbytery,- a- presbytery installs a
Minister in the local church:; onlythe presbytery can. dissolYe the relatiOnship, between 4
minister cind the particular church.
The presbytery is an expression. of the PCUSA within a. certain district; iteonsists of all
the ministers and churches within that district. (0-11_0 WO •
The presbytery is responsible for the mission and government otthechutch throughout
its geographical district. 041.0103J
The presbytery has the responsibility and power to ordain,: receive, dismiss, install,.
.rernove, and discipline ministers_ (0.-11.0103n3
Ordination of a Min isteris an act-of the presbytery. (0-14.0101)
• The relationship between a Minister and a local church is established by the presbytery.
(0-11.04030). A call (e.rnployment of a minister) occurs only through the .presbytery,
1 (G-14.ps07) The-presbytery examines. the minister and deterrnines whether:to proceed
with installation. (G-14.0507b) If if does decide to proceed, the presbytery appoints a
time and place for the installation service. (0-14.0509b) The presbytery Conducts the
installation service and installs the minister in the local church. (0-14.0510)
A presbytery's- committee on ministry visits regularly arid consults with each minister in
1 the presbytery. (0.-11.0500_
• While the minister or the church may request .dissolution of the pastor-church
relationship, only the presbytery is authorized to terminate the relationship between a
1 local .church.and its minister. (G-14:0601, 14:0602;.14..0603). OnlYthe presbyterYtan
unilaterally terminate.the miniSter's relationship with thechurch. (G-11.0103o) Neither
the minister nor the congregation may unilaterally do so.
.1
Other seminal provisions show the trierarelVeal nature of he .PCUSA: The presbytery is the
key governing body and has broad authority over the local church., onlynpresbyleiy can
.1 Vriantie;recel6e, uirite, divid4 ilisniiss, and church; the pre:bye-Ely:directs per
capita apportionments to the part/cider churches; it reYlaWs. anti corrects the church session's
minutes.
.1
7
FPC 001277
The particular church carries a vital responsibility in the mission. of the church_
Congregations serve as essential mission arms of the presbytery Inch) f the larger-church.
Ti (G-7.01.02)
When a particular church is organiied by a preSbyrery, the organizing members: sign a
covenant to live and work together as disciples of Jesus Christ, and serve. as apart of the
body of Christ in this place according to the principles of faith, mission,. and order of the
PCUSA, (Gr7.0201) The presbytery. continues- its work with the Chinch as it elects.
presbyters; secures pastoral leadership, coordinates its work with other 'churches, secures
bylaws in conformance with the PCLISA COnSlifilliatt, and strengthenS the mission of the
congregation in the larger life orthe denomination. (1-7.0202b)
A particular church of the PC.IJA can he organized, only by the authority of a presbytery
and shall function under provisions of the COnstfturion. (G-7.0101)
The presbytery's committee on ministry visits each church session at least once every
three years,-discussing the mission and ministry of that church and encouraging its full
participation in the life and work of the presbytery and the larger church. (G-11.0502e)
Only the presbytery is authorized to divide, dismiss, or dissolve churches_ (G-11.0103i)
The presbytery organizes new churches and receives. and unites churches. (0-11.0103h)
The presbyterycontrols the location o.f new churches and those that desire to move. (G-
11.0103j).
Tg ensure a congregation isfollowing the. guiding principles of Reformed worship (W-
1..4001) the presbytery shall have oversight and review of the ministry of congregations
-and discuss-the quality and standards of worship and the fruit it is bearing in the Life of
God's people as they proclaim the gospel, its joy, and. justice. (W-1.4002)
• Both pastors and the. session are accountable to the presbytery in its exercise of
constitutional supervision Of-members. (Wt 1..4008)
The presbytery may direct per capita apportionments to the churches within. its bounds.
(G-9.0404d).
The church session shall meet when directed to do so by the presbytery. ((310.0201)
Presbyterian polity is interdependent: Each governing body shall participate, through
representatives with goVerningboldies above and below concerning mission priorities,
budgeting, .administration, etc.. (0-9.0404a, b)
Records are the property of the goveMing bOdy that created them..When, however,.
congregations, presbyteries, or synods are dissolved, the records will be held by the next
higher governing, body. (0-9.0496)
1 The local church's minutes shall be available to the preshyteryupon request. (0-
1.0.0301)
• At least annually, each governing body shall have its minutes reviewed by the next
highest governing body. If a. loWer governing body fails, to send up its records for review;
the higher governing body shall order them prodbeed by a specified time. (0-9.04070
Review Sh.a1.1. include that the proceedings-have been in accordance witlithearAsqiitergii
and faithful to the whole church and that the. lawful injunctions of a hither governing
body have been obeyed. (G.9,0409a) A higher governing body can order the production
of a lower governing body's -records at any time k learns of an irregularity or
delinquency. (G-9.0408) A higher governing body may direct a lower body to
8
FPC 001278
reconsider, correct, and cure an irregularity or delinquency.- (G-9.0410) This may also
be done by judicial process. (G-9.0411)
When a particular church is dissolved, the presbytery shall take possession of its records.
assert jurisdiction over the church members, and grant them certificates of transfer to
other churches. (G- I- 0:030442D
Each particular church of the PCUSA is governed by the Constitution. Its- officers are
ministers, elders, and deacons. its government and guidance are the responsibility of the
session. fr shall fulfill itsresponsibilities as the Focal unit of mission for the service'f all
people, for the upbuilding of the whole church and for the glory of God. (0-4,0104)
Principles of Presbyterian Government are set out at G-4.0300.;: The PCUSA adheres to
the basic principles of Presbyterian polity;
The particular churches of the PCUSA wherever they are, taken collectively,
constitute one church; (0-4.0301a)
This church shall be governed by presbyters (ministers- and elders); (0-4.0301 b)
These presbyters shall come together in governing bodies (traditionally called
judicatories or courts) in regular gradation; (G-4.03.0le)
A higher governing body Shall have the right of review and control over a lower
one and shall have power to determine matters. Of Controversy upon reference,
complaint, or appeal; (G-4:030 f)
The church session is responsible for maintaining regular and continuing relationship to
higher PCUSA governing bodies by electing commissioners to presbytery, nominating
:elders who may be considered for election to synod or General Assembly, and observing
and carrying out the instructions of highergoverning bodies consistent with the
Constitution. (G-1.0.0102p)
. order is such that it shares power and
Presbyterian Unity: The nature of Presbyterian
responsibility. The system of governing bodies, whether they have authority over one or
many churches, sustains such mutual relationship with the structures as to express the
unity of-the church: (0-4.0302)
TV. Presenting the Property Trust Clause
Chapter VIII of the Book of Order is titled The Church And Its Property. This
relatively brief chapter is central in church property cases. It sets out the core provisions
that will operate when a church property dispute is presented. Read this chapter for the exact.
language. It will be invaluable as the issues are presented to the court_ These provisions and the
I presbytery's actions in regards to them should be Clearly and vigorously presented to the court.
Note the provisions are straightforward and in clear language a civil court should be able to
review and enforce without_making any ecclesiastical determinations of its. own. Moreover, via
affidavits (see Section II, above), the stated clerk of the presbytery, synod, or the General
Assembly can provide the court with statements as to what these provisions mean, The
following is a summary:
9
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• G-8.-01001: Decisions Regarding Property,. Decisions pertaining to church property,
their review, and correction are made according to the pcasii Constitution, citing
particularly to G.-1.04:00-, each governing body's decision is subject to review and appeal
tothe next higher governing body.
• Q-8.0201:. Property is. Held in Trust. This all-encoMpassing property trust applies to
both real and personal- property, no-matter where: it is held within the PCUSA and by
whatevergoverning bodies, trustees, associations, or corporations,
• G-8.0301: Property Used Contrary to the.Constitution. Whenever the property of a
partitirlar church ceases to be used as a particular church ofthe:PCUSA M accordance
With the Constitution, Men suchproperty shall be. heidE trantferred, Or sold as proVided. by
the presbytery.
▪ G-8.04.01::Prop.erty of Church DissOlVed or Extinct Whenever a particular chinch is
.Formally distolved by presbytery, or has become extinct, such property shall be held,
used, sold,. or disposed of as. the. presbytery directs..
• G-8.0501: Selling- or Encuinberirig °torch Property. Only after the presbytery grants
written permission may a:partitular chianti: seal Mortgage, or-otherwise encurnberits
property, or acquire property subject to an encumbrance or condition.
• G-$.0502:. Leallag. Church Property; Only after the presbytery grants written
permission may a Jiarticular church tease- its sanctuary or lease any of its property for
more than live. years
• G-8.0.50.1: Property of Church 'in. &hint. The relationship of the PCUSA to a
particular church cant only be severed by a constitutional 'action_ on the part of the.
presbytery. If there is a schism in a partieurar .church and the presbytery is unable to
effeota reconciliation or a diviSion into separate churches:within the PCUSA, then the
presbyteryshall declare Which faction is the. true church within the PCUSA and
thereby determine which one of thefactiOns is entitled to the. property. This
determination does not depend updn which faction received the majority vote within
the particular church.-
• G43,0701: Exceptions. At the time of reunion in 19.83, both the- United Presbyterian
Church in the United States of America (UPCUSA) and-the Presbyterian Church inthe
United States (PCUS) had express property trust clauses in their respective constitutions.
The PLUS did not, however, have -a provision.similar to G-8.6500, restricting the.
encumbering or leasing of church property. G-8:0701 gave churches in the former
PCUS theopdon to opt. out of p-tasa ifa majority of the_ congregation voted to do so
j and notified the presbytery prior to June RI, 199.1: Check the presbytety records for such *
opt outs. Sear in mind, churches that exercised this option only Opted out of G-
8.0500; they could not and did not opt out of the property trust clause (G-8.0201) or
the balance of Chapter-VIE Neither the UPCUSA nor the PCUS ever had
provisions whereby a congregation could unilaterally leave with the church
property..
I
tO
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Sri eat* 630 filtenetrjr inistg
Prior to 1981 In the UPC1.78A and 9.32 in the PCUS; the- two major Presbyterian
Church denominations did not have expresS property trusts in their constitutions. They
did not need therm.. The 1871 'U.S. Supreme forattufing in Wensony. Jones referred to
ptop arty held by trustees cif a particular Presbyterian Claire& as in trust for the persanS who by
the P.E-esbyterken 'Church ConMinal021, usagetrandjaws are entittedtb that use, The CPTatson
Court then watt on to hoed that, as a hierarehiCal Church, once diehighest governing body of the
Presbyterian:Church had ruled on the matter, the civil courts would enforcethat ruling as la the
property control.: .irratsga's hierarchical deference rule did not require or even suggest an explicit
property tryst provision; it upheld the traditional polity of review hysoccesSivegoverning 'bodies
of the Presbyterian Church.
In-Mary Erizafrelh Blue Hultia 19.69, the U.S. Supreme Court announced the neutral
principles doctrine but did not define it. In I 979,.in Jolts v. Wolf; the Supreme Court defined
the neutral priaciples doctrine And instructed deittthibiations and 'others en ho%v to meet
this npy.standarc4 "Alternatively,. the constitution of the general chtirch can made to
recite'n express trust in favor of the denominational Chtitcli,„.... And the civil courts will
be bound to give. effect to the result indicated by the parties,. provided it is embodied in.
some legally c.ognizable form." 443 U.S. at 606. Both the ITP-CUSA, .effectiVe1981:,, and the:
PCUS, effective 1982, followed the Supreme Court's-instructions to the letter, adopting
express property trusts. in favor of the dentrniiftation.and.in language that could be clearly
and simply applied by courts. Where opponents pointout that the• property deeds contain
:ng eXpressirust language and/or the local church was formed. prior Mille trust language being
expressly set out in the Book of Order; point out the chronology of LI& Supreme Court decisions
arid the Clear instructions presented by the ConrtinigneS .v. Waif.. The propertytrust clauses did
not create new.ntles. They simply codified the Presbyterian Church praCtice into the
Constitution: An affidavit may be helpful in this regard.
Presentin.g_Factors that Show the Connection between the PCUSA and
the Church. at Issue
Because of the polity, local Presbyterian:churches have a Wide variety orstrong
connections to the presbytery and the denomination. This section sets out many-of those
connections that shoUld be examined, documented, and, perhaPS, presented:to the civil: court.
Once again, review the church property cases in:your particular state. If they consider factors
such: as those set Out belbw, then these should be presented to the. total as additional evidence of
the hierarchical and connectional relationships. If they do not consider such factors and the case
law is otherwise strong for the presbytery's position, then it is probably wise not to bring these
fpa-tors into the case because they may invite the court to examine matters not relevant to that'
stae's church propertyanalysiS, Also, some of these factors could cut against (he presbytery; so;
ifthese matters are not-usually considered uncler_the.caseia_w„of.your.state,- it may be best to
leave them aside, If these factors are presented; a middle governing body or General Assembly
officer can present them to the court via an affidavit (see Sec, J.
11
FPC 001281
Most of the-documentation for these factors will be Mate records of the-presbytery:
'Same will. be in session minutes and some with the General Assembly. Have the presbytery
stated clerk or other presbytery offiCial gather theserecords. They will know best where to-
search and this will save on attorney expenses: Factors to consider
• Copy of the deed. Does it contain a property trust? The name Presbyterian? Adherence
to the PCUSA Constitution? Belonging to the Presbytery of 7 Synod of
For Presbyterian worship and governance?
• Copy of corpdrate articles and bylaws. Same questions as above_ Does it state the
PCUSA Constitutian is the charter, sent as the bylaws?
• Did the corporate articles:, bylaws, or other documents forbid the church• front
subordinating itself to-higher church governing bodies? If not, note to the court the local
church was free to subordinate itself and did so pursuant to the Presbyterian Church.
Constitution.
• Formation of the church. Did the presbytery create the church? Did the denomination
create the church? Did those who formed the church petition to join the presbytery?
Who were the original formers?. Were they Presbyterians? Were the first or subsequent
ministers Presbyterian? Is there a covenant document? What do the presbytery minutes
state?
• Property dealings, Did the church at any time act under the property chapter whereby
the presbytery approved loans, rriodgages, leases, etc.?
• Decades or centuries of Presbyterian membership_ Demonstrate to the court it is the
presbytery that keeps the faith with Presbyterians who, in the past, gave their monies,
work, and hope to creates Presbyterian church in this.place to perpetuate the faith ofthe
Presbyterian Church. Document the long periods of time this church has been a member
ofthe presbytery and prior denominations. It is improper and unfair to let present
members "break the chain" between founding Presbyterians of the past and those of the
I
future.
• Worship activities. Are the worship activities of the local church consistent withthose
f of the general church? This factor is challenging with the PCUSA because of the
diversity in worship styles.
• Calling pastors, The presbytery plays the key role in ministers taking calls and leaving
churches. Via the minutes and files, demonstrate these in regards to this particular
church. Show the successiori ofPresbyterian ministers approved by the.presbytery. Did
the presbytery install any of the ministers hi the church building? Laying on of hands?
Document work with committees on ministry and pastor nominating committees. Show
if the church wanted a minister but the presbytery refused and, so, the minister was not
called. Did most ministers attend Presbyterian-related seminaries? Were most ministers
members of presbytery? At the time of schism, was the minister one installed by the
preSlaytery?
• Crse of church gunning bodies and.officers to assist the local. church. Show how
1 this church, its ministers, or members have initiated the use of presbytery officers,
committees, or appears in the past, or have been compelled to do so.
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FPC 001282
• Denominational. Listing, The General Assembly publishes a list of all -member churches,
Secure the page showing- this listed church for all of the years it has been with the;
ri denthnin a thin.
1 • Tar exempt status. A- federal group talc exemption ruling is held by the PCUSA for DE
churches, middle governing bodies-,, and the General Assembly, This Ming includes all
-1, those listed in the GeneralAssembly publication. Secure a statement from the Legal
1 Office that this particular church is pall of the denomination and, so, in PCUSA 's group
tax exempt ruling;
1 • Insurance. Many churches are insured under presbytery master insurance policies. If
l' applicable, show this.
• Use of the names and symbols of the denomination or predecessor denominations.
Is this church latoWn in the community as pm of the denomination? Did it use the
de norninational symbolS: on its sign, stationery, etc:? Does the cornerstone include the
name-Presbyterian?
i • Constitutional questions: Did officers (G-I4.02.07) and ministers (G-14.6405b) of the
i church'answer the constitutional questions set, forth.in the Book of Order, including the
agreement to be bound by our church's polity and -discipline?
• Participation in higher governing bodies. Did elders and ministers participate in--
presbytery, synod„ or General Assembly meetings? Other meetings of the higher
adveming bodies?
• Presbytery and higher governing b:odies at the church. Did the church ever host
1
meetings of higher governing bodies? Did presbytery-or any of its committees ever hold
meetings in this particular church? Did:presbytery officers ever visit the church? Preach
aLthechurch?
• flYninal.sand other publications: Did the church 11.5 fiymnarS or other publications
produced by the Presbyterian Church?
• Did the church ever receive any grants or loans from the presbytery or a higher
governing body? Is there a loan in effect at the present time?
• Mission programs: Did members:participate in mission programs sponsored by higher
governing bodies?' Attend camps or conferenCe centers owned or sponsored by the
presbytery- or.the synod?
Finances, Did the church send any collections or per capita funds to the presbytery, or
• higher governing bodies? Did the church, participate in any of the special offerings (One
.
Great Hour of Sharing? Pentecost Offering?)
• -Review of minutes. Did the Church submit its minutes for review and approval by Me
1 presbytery (G-9.040-70? Did the preShytery ever correct the minutes? _
a When it threatened to leave; did the local church notify the presbytery or higher
governing bodies; thereby demonstrating its knowledge that it is related to higher bodies?
/
VI. Overview of U.S. Supreme Court Cases
There are seven important U.S. Supreme Court cases which relate to church property
disputes. They date from 1871 to 1979: This section provides a summary of those cases: their
wide/lying facts and the important rulings the Courtissued. The Court's 1979 Jones v. Wolf
decision was the last opinion of the Supreme Court on this topic. Alt seven cases are
13
FPC 001283
summarized here because of how one builds upon the other, if is important, to have working
knowledge of all of thete cases because the various states have, at the invitation orthe Jones
WOliCourt, applied- a variety orways to decide church propertrdisputes. Sorne hearken back to
the 1871 Worsuit v. Jones-case. Others decline to go beyond 1979- In some states, the law is not
favorable to presbyteries because the state courts have misapplied a U.S. Supreme Court case. In.
these instance; it is especially important to be familiar with these cases because you may ask the
court to correct state law. •
In all of these cases, the Supreme Court issued cautionary'language about the civil courts
interfering with the ecclesiastical law and polity of churches. These opinions also set forth some
of the leading First Amendtnent language about the autonomy of churches and the circumscribed
authority of civil courts in how they handle various church disputes. Because of the extensive
ctuotarion of the various opinions, this section constitutes about half of the entire memorandum.
Use this language to remind the state court of the U.S. Supreme Court's various rulings in favor
of hierarchical churches,.
Watson v. Jones (1871) 80. U.S. 679, 20 L.Ed-666
Key Points; Court draws a bright line between congregational and hierarchical
churches. Civil courts will determine church property control as follows: In a.
congregational church, the deterMination will be by majority vote of the congregation
or an authorized local church hoard, In a biera?cblcal church, the determination will
be by the highest church governing body that has ruled on the matter. Civil. courts
must accept the rulings of Such church bodies, not engage in ecclesiastical decisions
themselves. This is known as the hierarchical deference rule.
Facts: During the Civil War, the Walnut-Street PreSbyterian. Church in LoulSville, Kentucky
split overthe issue of slavery. A. majority of the cringregationwasanti-slavery with a slim pro-
slavery majorityla control of the session and the trustees. In August of1865„ the pro-slavery
Session proposed to re-engage a pro-slavery minister who was rejected by the congregation; the
session called himanyway. Some members asked the synod. to intervene (likely the presbytery
was dealing with its own split). In January of 186.6;d synod committee visited the church "With
power to call a congregational meeting. for the purpose of eleCting additional rulingelders,
calling a pastor, or-choosing a stated supply, and doing any other business -competent to a
congregational meeting that mayappear to them, the said congregation, necessary for their best
interests." The:pre-slavery session and trustees refused to open the church; the congregation
:organized itself on the sidewalk elected additional elders, a anti-slavery. Thepro-slavery
contihgent retained control and refusecl any participation. by tbe newly elected-eiders. The
presbytery, synod, and General Assembly (deatingwith their own splits)-all issued rulings in
regards to this church. Ultimatelyalteeittitslaveryeeneral Asseml2inecogolZed.theautho4ity
of the anti-slavery- middle governing bodies, newly elected elders, -and session. Still excluded
from church operations, theanti-slavery elders recognized by the higher church judicatories filed
suit in the LouisvilleciVil court for control of the property. The local court ruled inoldie
anti-slavery elders as recognized by' thehigher governing b.oclies. The Kentucky Court or
_Appeals ruled the general Assembly and middle governing bodies acted beyond church law and
14
FPC 001284
fie4d in trimr or the pro-slaVety contingent. Ultirhately, a related case castle before theLLS:
Supreme Court.
Rulings: The Court notes the: various parts of the Presbyterian Clinch Constitution
(Confessions of Faith, Form of Government, Book of Discipline, and Directory for Worship). It
notes and explains the membership and powers of the. ascending series of four church
judicatories, now knOwn as governing Ladies: church sessions, presbyteries_ synods, and the
General AsSembly.
fa deterrhining the rightful owner in church property disputes, the Court-sets forth three
alternatives for decision malting, The second and third are the most important;
1. When the property by deed, will, or other instrument has express terms devoted to- the
teaching, support, or spread of a specific foun of ieligiout belief, that Will be enforced.
SO U.S. at 722;
2. When the property is held by a religious congregation which, by the nature of its
organization, is strictly independent of other ecclesiastical associations, and so far as
church-government is concerned, owes noi fealty or obligation to any higher authority,
then the determination will be by majority vote of the congregation or an authorized
board-ofthe local church. Id.
3, When the property is held by a religious congregatiOn or body that a subordinate
member of some general church organization in which there are superior ecclesiastical
tribunals, with a general and ultimate power of control more or less complete in.SOIPC
supreme judicatory; then the determination will be by the highest church judicatory that
has ruled on the matter. Id..
Thus, Waistnt 1,, -roues established what is known as the hierarchical deference rule: In
hierarchical churches (ex. Presbyterian, Episcopal, Methodist), the civil courts will defer to
the ruling of the highest church judicatory that considers the matter. The court will make
its property control ruling on the basis of the church judicatory ruling. By: contrast, in
congregational or independent churches (ez. Baptist), the Civif court will defer to the majority
vote of the local congregation or authorized hoard and award the property accordingly.
The Watson v. Jones Court authored pivotal. language still widely used in a variety of
cases:concerning churches:
► As to the rule of hierarchidal deference: "jWjhenever the qu estions of discipline, or of
faith or ecclesiastical rule, custom, Or law have been decided by the highest of these
churth judicatories to Which- the matter has been carried, the legal tribunals must.
accept stick decisions as final, and as binding on them, in their applitation. to the
case birth them," sO [a..at 727.
As to the right of denominations to organize themselves and the authority of their
ecclesiastical rulings: "In this country the full and free right to entertain any religious
belief, to practice. any religious principlei and to reach any religious doctrine which does
15
FPC 001285
not violate the laws of morality and propertYrand which does net infringe personal rights,.
is. conceded to all Th6 IOW knows no60day, and is Cciiitm itted to the support of
dogma, the establishmentof no sect. The right to organize voluntary associations to
assist in, theexptession and dissemination of any religious doctrine and to create
tribunals for the decision otcontroverted questions of faith within the association,
and for the ecclesiastical governurentotall the individual members, congregationS,
andolficers within the general association:r ig unquestioned. All who unite
themselves to such a body do so.with an implied consent to this government, and are
bound to sti bin it to if. But if would be -a vain consent and Would lead to the total
subversion of.such religious bodies, irony One aggrieved by One of their decisions
could appeal fo the secular courts and have them reversed. It IS of the essence of
these religious unions, and of their right to establish tribunals for the decision of
questions arising. among:thetnselves that those decisions should be binding in. all
cases of ecclesiastical cognizance, subject only to such appeals as the organism,. itself
provides far." Id. at 728--29.
• As to the inability of civil courts to make ecclesiastical. determinationd: "Nor do we see.
That juStice would be likely to be:promoted by Submitting those recdlesiaSticaljdeciaions
to review in the ordinary judicial tribunals. Each of these large and influential bodies to.
mention no others, let reference be had to the Protestant Episcopal, the.IVIethodist
Episcopal-r and the Presbyterian churches), has a body of constitutional and ecclesiastical
law of its own, to be found in their written organic laws; their bookS of discipline, in their
collections ofprecedents, in their usage. and customs, whichas to each constitute a
system of ecclesiastical law and religious faith that tasks the ablest of minds to become
familiar with. !Gs not to be supposed that the judges of the civil courts can be as
competent in the ecclesiastical late and religious. faith Of all those bodies as the ablest
men in each are in referende to their own. It would therefore be an appeal from the
more learned tribunal in the law which should decide the case, to one which is less
so." Id. at 729.
Case Comments: It is important to note the Presbyterian Church did not have a
property trust clause in its. Constitution at this time. If did not need one. Presbyterian polity
clearly established (as it does now)-the authority of presbyteries in relation to the particular
churches and the successive authority of every higher governingbody. Even without a trust
clause in the deed or the church constitution, the Watson v. Jones Court recognized the property
was held in trust "for the use of the persons who by the constitution, usages, and laws of the...
Presbyterian body are entitled to that use." SO U.S. at 720. Noting that the trustees do not
personally own the property buract as fiduciaries, the Court referred to the "true body of the
church" and the "mode which is authorized by the canons of the general church ...." Id. at 721.
With this ruling, the United States Supreme Court provided a bright linerule as to
how_ church-property disputes_wo.ubd_he determined-by-the courts.:With,its polity. and
the hierarchical deference rule established, the Presbyterian Church was secure in making its
own determinations and where those had civil ramifications (ex_property ownership) knowing
they would be: enforced. The hierarchical deference rule Was firmly in place for almost a
century,
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FPC 001286
Ganten it 'Bahian Catholic Archbishop f1924) 220. U.S.,1, 74 1..Ed. 131, 50rC
Si. 5
Key Points: Not a church property case but establisheS an exception that later comes
. into play- in such cases: Generally; the decisions ofchurch tribunals, even thOse'affecting-
ciYil rights,. are binding on the civil courts. But. there will be an exception where the
civil court finds fraud, collusion, or arbitrariness.
Facts: in this:case, Gonzalez sued the Archbishop of Manila to compel him to appoint
Gonzalez.a chaplain. Gonzalez would be the beneficiary of a. trust 'Die were named chaplain.
The_arclibishop refused.
Rulings; The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the arcirhishop's sole discretion in making the
app.ointment•decision but it added, in Aida (language-not necessary. for the ruling), that a civil
court could review decisions.of church judicatories for fraud., collusion, or arbitrariness "In the
absence offraud, Collusion, or arbitrariness, The decisions &Nile prOper ehurbb tribunals on
matters purely ecclesiastical, although affectingcivil rights, are accepted in litigation before the
-secular courts:as conclusive; because the parties, in interest made them sei by contract or
otherwise." 280 U.S. at 16'.
Case Comments: This exception far fraud; collusion, or arbitrariness is sometimes
claimed in church property cases against the presbytery or othei church governing-bodies.
Arbitrariness is the most typical claim. These 'arguments are rarely successful because of the
natural inclination of courts to stay clear of ecclesiastical decisions and the internal operations' f
church tribunals (see Serbian. astern Orthodox Diocese v. Milivolovieh, below, limiting the
arbitrariness-exception)..
Kedroff v. Si. Nicholas Cathedral (1952)344 U.S. 94, 97 L. Ed. 120, 73 S.Ct„ 143
:KEY Points: Courth:olds New York's law removing Russian Orthodox churches from
the authority of the patriarch in Moscow unconstitutional. The rulings in. Watson P.
'One and Gonzafez- v: Roman Catholic ehtlittiihopi although not -decided under the First
Amendment, are recognized for their free exercise bases.
Facts: pining the Cold War, New York passed a law placing all Russian Orthodox
churches in that state under the jurisdiction of the Russian Orthodox. Church in America rather
than the Orthodox Church in Russia with its patriarch in Moscow;
Rulings: The US. Supreme Court determined this was unconstitutional and that the First
Amendment's free exercise clause required the churches to remain under the jurisdiction of
Mascow. The KedroffCdttrt focused upon Watson v. Jones and cited Gonzalez, noting the
freedom for religious organizations these opinions radiate. 344 U.S. at 116.
17
FPC 001287
Presbyterian Church in the United States v. Mary Elisabeth. Blue F7ult Memorial Presbyterian
Church- (17969) 393 U.S. 440. 21. L.Ed.2d 658, 89 S. Ct. 601
Key Points: Court holds- Georgia's-departure-from-doctrine rule unconstitutional
under the First- Amendment beemise it compels. civil Courts to determine what are the
substantial original tenets of the church and Whether Or notthey have been abandoned.
Civil courts must not decide church property cases by resolving controversies over
religious practice and doctrine. The Court announces but .does not define- the neutral
principles of law doctrine, those principles developed for use in all property disputes.
Facts: Two Presbyterian churches in Savannah, Georgia voted to withdraw from the
Presbyterian Church in the United States and reconstitute themselves as an autonomous
Presbyterian organization. Their complaints included, variously, the ordination of women;
pronouncements on social matters; support of the removal of Bible reading in the schools;
teachings alien to the Confessions; membership in the National Council of Churches of Christ;
et The two ministers renounced the-jurisdiction, of the church and so did many elders. The
presbytery established an atiminlqtratiye commission but conciliation failed. The commission
acknowledged the departure of the tocal leadership and proceeded to take control of the property
until new leadership could be appointed. The dissident church members did not appeal within
church judicatories. Instead, they filed suit in civil court to enjoin. the presbytery and higher
governing bodies from trespassing.
M this time, Georgia statutory law employed_ the departure-from-doctrine rule. This
rule provided that when a Georgia church was a member of a hierarchical denomination, a
trust in favor of the denomination would be enforeed "Conditioned upon the general
church's adherence to its tenets of faith and practice existing when the localchurch
affiliated with it and a. an abandonment of, or departure from, such tenets is a diversion
from the trust, which the civil courts will prevent' 393 U.S. af444 (Footnote 3, quoting the
Georgia statute and the Georgia Supreme Court). At trial, the jury determined the denomination
had engaged in a "fundaimentaior substantial abandonment Of the original tenets and doctrines of
the (Presbyterian Church] SG that the new tenets and clot-trines are utterly variant from the
purposes for which the [Presbyterian Church] was founded." 393 U.S. at 443-44. The local
churches were awarded.the property under the departure-from-doctrine rule; This judgment was
affirmed by Me Georgia Supreme Court.
Rulings: The U.S. Supreme Court declared the departure-from-doctrine rule
unconstitutional under the first ainendment:
"[T]he First Amendment severely circumscribes the role that civil courts may play in
resolving chuechpraperty-disputes."-393: at 449.
a 'First Amendment values are plainly jeopardized when church property litigation is made
to turn on the resolution by civil courts of controversies overreligious doctrine and
practice. If civil courts undertake: to resolve such controversitsin order. to
adjudicate the property dispute, the hazards are ever present of inhibiting the free
18
FPC 001288
d•eveitipment Of religious doctrine and: afIrriplitoting,teeidar interestaill Matters Of
purely ecclesiastical concern." Irk
• departure-from-doctrine element of the Ceoreia iniPlied trust theory :requires the
'civil court to determine: matters at the-very core. ofa religion—the interpretation of
particular-church doctrines-and the importance of those doctrines to religion,. Plainly, the
First Amendment forbids CM/ courts fitm . praying such A rote," a at 4sa
• in rejecting the departure-from-dottrine rule, the Supreme Co ur testa bEshedthe
neutral principles-doctrine but did not clearly define it: 'Civil courts:do not inhibit free
1
exercise of religion Merely by opening their doors ro disputes invalvingiehurch. property. And
there are neutral principles of law, developed for use in all property disputes, which can be
- applied without 'establishing' churches to which property is awarded." Id. at 449. Interestingly,
the Morey Elizabeth Blue gull Court called upon churches to structure their relationships
according to. these neutral principles but-did-not set out-what they were: `,States, religious
organizations, and individitala must structure relationships. involving, church property so. as
not to require the civil courts to resolve ecclesiastical iluestionS." Id.
Case Comments: This lack of definition invited more church property cases. Ultimately;
the Supreme Court was compelled to define what it meant by neutral principles.
Maryland and Vireinia Eldeiship o f the Cltureltes of Cod v. Chitrch dart arSharrish
11970) 396, U.S. 367, 24 L. Ed. 2d 582, 90 •S_Ct. 499
Key Points: Court dismisses an appeal (and thereby leaves the lower toad's ruling in
place) where the Maryland Court of Appeals appiles neutral principles and decides a
church property dispute by examining—statutory law regarding chprchcorporations
holding property, deeds, church corporate articles, and the constitution of the general
church. In a concurring opinion, three ways of Satisfying neutral principles are set out:.
1) The hierarchical deference rule as long as the civil courts do not make any polity or
doctrine detetrninations; 2) The formaltitle doctrine where deeds, corporate articles,
state law, and the denomination's constitution are examined; 3) States tan adopt special
statutes concerning church property as long as they do not interfere in church doctrine
or, polity.
Facts: Two local churches in Maryland sought to secede from the general church. In an
earlier opinion, 393 U.S. 528 (1969), the U.S. Supreme Court directed the Maryland Court of
Appeals to reconsider the case in light of-the Court's Mary Elizabeth Blue Hull opinion,
(establishing the neutral principles doctrine but not defining it). When- the case returns, the
Magian d court has examined state statutory, law gpveming the holdingof property by religious
corpotations;, deed language, charters of the church corporations, and prOvisions in thi
denominational church constitution to determine ownership of the property. The denominational
church constitution did not have a crust clause. The Maryland Court of Appeals awarded the
property to the seceders, On appeal back to the U.S. Supreme Court the Court dismissed the
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case in one paragraph stating the Maryland court had resolved the matter without inquiring into
religious doctrine and, so, nO substantial federal question was presenterL This Case is a harbinger
Of how neutral principles will operate.
Concurring opinion: Three justices join a concurring opinion (authored by Justibe
Brennan, the author of the Mary Elizabeth Blue Hull opinion) suggesting the nen tra
doctrine can be met in three different ways:
I. The Watson v. Jones hierarchical. deference rule: Churches with a congregational.
polity decide property Ownership by majority vote. Churches in a hierarchical polity
decide property ownership by the highest church. authority that has ruled on the dispute at
issue. But the opinion catitionsthe- Watson. approach can only be used if the appropriate
church governing body cap be determined without resolution of doctrinal question's or
extensive religious policyinquity; 39611,5L at 370.
2. The formal title doctrine-, Courts can determine property ownership. by looking at deeds,
reverter clauses, general stale corporation laws; and general church constitutions. But the
opinion -cautions thateivil courts cannot apply such documents if they are conditioned
upon. departure from doctrine (the. rule stnickdown in Mary Elizabeth Blue Hull). Id.
3. States can pass special statutes regarding church property arrangements as long as they
do not interfere in doctrine, both doctrine and ecclesiastical policy must be left to. church
governing bodies. Id.
Serbian Eastern Orthodox Diocese v. Milivolevicli. (1976) 426 U.S. 696, 49 L.Ed2d 151, 96
S.Ct 2372
Key Points: The Illinois Supreme Court reinstated a defrocked Orthodox bishop,
reunited three dioceses into one, and returned control of the diocese's property to the
defrocked bishop, all by applying the ecclesiastical law and polity of the church. The
Supreme Court held this was an unconstitutional rejection of the decisions of the highest
church tribunal. Such church tribunal decisions are binding on civil courts. Moreover,
the Illinois court's reliance on the arbitrariness exception was misplaced. The
arbitrariness exception cannot be used by a civircourt to reexamine the decisions of the
highest church tribunal on matters of church laws and regulations. The arbitrariness
exception is thereby limited.
Facts: Various disputes led to the Serbian Orthodox bishop of the American-Canadian
diocese (Milivojevieh) being defrocked by the mother church's Holy Synod and Holy Assembly_
The diocese was also divided into three new dioceses with new bishops named. The defrocked
bishop sued in Illinois court to be reinstated as bishop, have the reorganization of the dioceses
declared invalidandhave.all.properties,secured-ip-hirn -The-Illinois Supreme Court-perfOrtiletl'a
detailed review of church law and determined the actions of the mother church, in applying its
own church law and polity, were procedurally and substantively defective_ Therefore, the
actions were arbitrary, invalid, and reversed.
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7
Rulings: The U.S. Supreme Court reversed-the Illinoi-s Supreme Court
• Th:c Supreme Court notes this case is essentially nova church property dispute, but a
rellgiOUS dispute which under Supreme Court precedent is for ecclesiastical, not civil,
tribunals. 426 U.S. at 709.
t • The Illinois Supreme-Court rested its decithion "upon an impermissible reject* of the
decisions of the highest ecclesiastical tribunals of this 'hierarchical church upon the issues
rl in dispute and impermissibly substitutes its.own inquiry into church polity and
resolutions based upon those disputes." It at 708:
"iWthere resolution of the disputes cannot be made without'extensive inquiry by
civil courts into religious law and polity, the First and Fourteenth Amendments
mandate that ciVil courts shall not disturb the decisions of'th e highest ecclesiastical
tribunal Within a church of hierarchicalpolity, but must accept such. decisions as
binding on them, in their application to the religious issues of doctrine or polity
before them. Id. at 704.
As to the arbitrariness exception set forth but not defined in Gonzalez and Maty
Elizabeth Blue Hull, it does not allow for the review performed by the Illinois Supreme
Court: "No 'arbitrariness' exception—in the sense of an inquiry whether the
decisions of the highest ecclesiastical tribunal of a hierarchical church complied
with church laws and regulations—is consistent with the constitutional mandate that
civil courts are bound to accept the decisions of the highest judieatotles of a
religious organization of hierarchical polity on matters oldisciplIne, faith, internal
organization, or ecclesiastical rule, custom, or law." Id. at 713.
• indeed, it is the, essence of religious faith that ecclesiastical decisions are reached and
are to be accepted as matters of faith whether or not rational or measurable by objective
criteria." Id. at 714-15. •
• The Court criticized the Illinois court on a variety of matters, including its rejection
of the expert testimony presented by the mother church's expert witnesses. Id. at
7.18 (See also footnote 10).
• "In short the First and Fourteenth Ainendments permit hierarchical religious
organizations to establish their own rules and regulations for internal discipline and
government, and to create tribunals for adjudicating disputes over these matters. When
this choice is exercised and ecclesiastical tribunals are created to decide disputes over the
government and direction of subordinate bodies, the constitution requires that civil courts
accept their decisions as binding upon them." Id. at 724-25.
Case Comments: In addition to the very strong language restricting a civil court's power
to interpret church law, this is the case to use if your opponents make a claim of arbitrariness
against the actions of the presbytery.
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FPC 001291
Ions v. Wolf ('1 979)443 U.S. 595, 61 LEd.2d 775, 99 &Ct. 3G20
j. Key' Points: No longer is the hierarchical deference rule of Watson v. Jones the only was
to determine church property disputes. Indeed, states may adopt any one of various
approaches to settle church property disputes. The Court identifies three: I) Neutral
principles where the court examines statutory law on churches holding property, church
corporate articles) deeds, and the provisions of the denomination's constitution. The
Court explicitly calls upon denominations to modify their constitutions to provide for
express trusts and states the civil courts will be bound to enforce them; 2) Hierarchical
deference remains an option to determine church property disputes even though it is not
the only option; 3) A presumptive rule of majority representation may be used as long
as it is defensible upon some showing that the identity of the local church is to be
determined by some other meant (ex. local church charter or denomination's
constitution can provide thattimrch is to be identified by higher governing body). Since
Jones v. Wolf, no other church property cases have been taken by the U.S..Supreme
Court. This ruling allows state courts to use multiple mechanisms to decide such cases
and they do.
Facts: Various disputes brought the Vincville Presbyterian Church in Macon, Georgia to
a congregational meeting. By a margin of 164 to 94, the congregation voted to leave the
Presbyterian Church in the United States and join the Presbyterian Church in America: The
Augusta-Macon Presbytery of the PCUS appointed a commission that eventually ruled the
minority faction constituted the "true congregation." The presbytery commission withdrew all
authority from themajority faction. The majority faction took no part in the commission's work
and did not appeal its decisions. The minority faction brought suit in civil court to gain control
of the property. The Georgia courts applied. "neutral principles of law" and ruled for the
majority.
fi Rulings: The United States Supreme Court sets out what it means by the neutral
principle& of law doctrine.
• The Court recognizes the PCUS has a generally hierarchical or connectional form of
government as contrasted with the congregational form. Min other Presbyterian cases,
the Court notes the ascending levels of four governing bodies, with eachsubject to the
review and control of the next higher governing body. 443 U.S. at 597-9g.
• In applying its version of neutral principles., the Georgia courts reviewed property deed's.
state.statutes-concerning.implied-trusts; church corporate charters:- arid-the-FirilbTreil
Church Constitution, In none of these docurnents did the court discern a trust in favor of
the denomination. On this baSis, the Georgia courts ruled in favor of congregational
majorities. Id. at 60.0-01,
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FPC 001292
• By 'contrast, in a schism involving a United Methodist church, the Georgia court: found'
the (bided Methodist 'Coristintrion contained anexpress trust in favor of the
denomination. On that basis, the court awarded the property to the denominational
Aural. Id. at 600-01.
The Supreme Court noted the stale has a legitithare interest in the peaceful resolution of
church property disputes and the civil courts are open to make .deterniinations of church
property ownership. Id. at 602..
• The Supreme Court explicitly stated ''the First At-bend/tient does not dictate that a State
must follow a, particular method of resolving church property disputes. Indeed, 'a state.
may adopt any one of various approaches: for settling 'church property disputes so
tong as it involves no consideration of doctrinal matters, whether the. ritual. and liturgy of
worship or the tenets of faith.' Id. at 602 (quoting the concurring -opinion in Maryland
& Virginia Churches. emphasisIn original). This multiplicitylpproach became very
important as states around the country began to apply churchproperty rules in a variety
ofWays,
• Having stated that any of various appetrabhes Could be used, the Court went on to
identify three possibleapproachesi:
The neutral principles approach is used where a court reviews the language.of deedS,
the terms of local church charters, state statutes coneerning church property; and the
provisions of the general church constitution concerning the Ownership and control of
church property: a at 605.
Case Comments: Obvibusly, this neutral principles approach disadvantaged hierarchical
church&S', in part, as compared to their prior status tinder Watson v. JoneS. No longer were civil
courts mandated to follow the hierarchical deference rule in church property cases.
Significantly, the Jones v. Wolf Court set out the mechanism by which denominations could
reinstate their former position: "Through appropriate reversionary clauses and trust provisions,
religious societies can specify what is' to happen to church property in the event of a particular
contingency,-or what religious body will determine ownership in the event of schism or doctrinal
controversy. In this mariner, a: religious organization Can ensure that a &Sputa over the
ownership of church property will be resolved in accord with the desires of its members." Id. at
603-04.
Even more explicitly, "At any time before the dispute erupts, the parties can ensure,
if they so desire, that the faction loyal to the hierarchical church will retain the church
property. They can modify the deeds or the corporate charter to include a right of reversion Or
trust in favor of the general church. Alternatively, the constitution of the general churCh can
be made to recite an etpress trust in favor of the denominational church. The burden
involved in taking such steps will be minimal. And the civil courts will be bound to give effect
to the result indicated by the parties,_providea !kis embodied in some legally cognizable
form." Id. at. 606. Having noted how these matters could be resolved, the Court called upon
"'States, religious organizations, and individuals [tiaJ structure relationships involving church
property so as not to require the civil Courts to resolve ecclesiastical questions." Id. at 604
(quo tins Mary Elizabeth Bhie Hula.
23
FPC 001293
In response to this instruction by the IES. Supreme Court, both the United Presbyterian
Chiarch in the United-States of America, effective in. 1981, and the Presbyterian Church in the
United States, effective in 4982, adopted new chapters Of the Constitution setting out express-
trusts. on church property; their .operations, the fact that presbytery determines the true church,
and the like: In light of the Court's new neutral principles ruling, these constitutional,
amendments returned the Presbyterian Church to the same status it had held.since the Watson v
Jones decision In 187 1.
2... The hierarchical deference rule of Watson v. Jones remains one of the approaches
approved by the Supreme Court to decide church property disputes: The U.S. Supreme
I Court notes that "Georgia taw requireS that 'church property be held according to: the
terms of the church government,' and provides that a local church affiliated with a
hierarchical religious association 'is. part of the whole body of the general church and is
subject to the higher authority of the organization and its laws and regulations.'" Id, at
608-09. Noting that this brings in the Presbyterian Church Book of Order, the.Supreme
Court cautions that civil courts must not "usurp the function of the commission appointed
by the Presbytery, which already has determined that petitioners [the minority faction]
represent the 'true congregation' of the Vineville church. Therefore,•if Georgia law
provides that the identity of the Vineville church is to be determined according to the
'laws and regulations' of the PCUS, then the First Amendment re-quires that the Georgia
courts give deference to the presbyterial commission's determination of that church's
identity:.' Id. at 609.
Case Comments: The Supreme Court stated the hierarchical deference is not required by
the First Amendment. Id. at 605. Some mistakenly read this to suggest that hierarchical
deference was being abandoned but it is clear from this case, Maryland and Virginia Churches,
and other cases that the rulings in Watson v. Jones are alive and well. Nowhere has the Court
ever overruled Watson v. Jones; to the contrary, it has been repeatedly cited in the Supreme-
Court's case law.
3, The presumptive rule of majority representation, defeasible upon a showing that the
identity of the local church is to be determined by some other means, is identified as
an option. This rule, of course,, puts the Presbyterian Church (and other hierarchical
churches) at an immediate disadvantage because:it ignores the fundamental and historic
church politythat a presbytery identifies the-true church, nova majority vote:of the
congregation. In effect, this rule, improperly applied, violates the free exercise of
religion clause by turning the Presbyterian Church into an association of congregational
or independent churches. Significantly, the. Supreme Court noted that a presumptive rule
of majority representation was proper where it was "defeasible upon a shoWing that the
Identity-of-the-local church-is to Ere-d-etermined-by-sorrre-crtirerm-eans," It at 607: -.
Court notes the:various ways the presumptive majority rule can be trumped; "Most
importantly, any rule of majority representation can always be overcome, under the
neutral-principles approach, either by providing, in the corporate charter or the
constitution of the general church, that the identity of the local church is to be
24
FPC 001294
r1
•
established rm same other way, or by providing that the church property is held in
trust Mr the general church and those who remain loyal to it." id at 6074:8.
Case Comments: As noted above,, the Presbyterian Church took the Court's advice and
adopted both art express property trust and clear statements about the authority of the presbytery-
In property -matters (see Sec. IV.).
VIT. Other Resoutt es
Law review articles are written by law professors, students, and practitioners Typically.
they have an academic focus and-analyze principles in a particular area of law, In a state -where
church property case law is. basically settled, law review articles will probably have little effect.
however, the state has tittle or no ease law oreinflitting decisions, a law -review article may
be oftriorelitterett to the court. This -section surnularizeS a few relatively recent: articles. There
are many others The first resource listed below, however, is an annotated law report which
discusses this area of law generally with a particular focus on eases nationwide.
• Determination of Property Rights Between Local Church and Church Body
Modern View, 52ALR3d 324; 334 (listing the Presbyterian Church as hierarchical with
control over local church property), and 417 t"-Although the Presbyterian form of church
government is without question hierarchical, there has been a considerable Amount of
litigation over the right of -local Presbyterian churches. to withdraw from the general
church andretain the use and control of local church property. (This right is uniformly
denied, on the ground that the localPresbyterian Church stands in a hierarchical
relationship to, the general-church, With respect to property matters as in-other areas"
(Footnotes omitted)). Although this laW repornisdated (1974); its description of the
Presbyterian Church- as hierarchical- is apt. It also discusses Presbyterian Church- cases at
section 25 of the annotation.
• Hands Off? Civil CouninVolvementin Conflicts Over Religious Property, 9-8 Colum. L.
Rev. 1843 (1998). Although the author criticizes the hierarchical deference approack.he
notes it continues to be valid within U.S. Supreme Court jurisprudence and applied in
many states, and he recognizes the Presbyterian Church as hierarchical. Id. at 1878. A
review of some Presbyterian cases isprovided; id. at 1898-1901, but some date -from
before Jones v: Wolf Citing an Iowa SupremeCourt case, he notes the 1981 property
trust amendinent to the Bbok of Order was not a new principle btit rather Clariaed the
uncertainty created by .1Ones-v- Kir Id. at 19-01.
j • Property Disputes and Religious SchiSms: tfiha is the C.hurch?.9 St. Thomas L. Rev. 319
(1997). This author endorses hierarchical deferencend criticizes neutral principles.
Cintothistrutin points, isthat .orte-is-bound-hythe-rules of-the church joined. "The -
Episcopal- and Presbyterian churches trace their existence to the English Reformation.
Thus, their-polity, doctrine,, and structure were established long before affiliation by -the
con-temporary members. New membership in any existing organization implies
25
FPC 001295
acceptance of the: organization's existing rules.." Id.. at 354. Most orthe article- is devoted
to-reviews of U.S. St/Oreille Court eases and several State cases.
• Religious Property Disputes and Aldus (rally Religious Evidence: Towards a Narrow
Application of the Neutral Principles Approack }5 Vill. L.. Rev. 949 (t.990). This- author
criticizes the hierarchical deference approach, analyzes the- Episcopal Church, and a
particular Kentucky Supreme court case. He proposes a very narrow neutral principles
approach whereby only secular documents are considered. (deeds, corporate articles) and
riot generatchurch constitutions. This proposal is contrary to the. Supreme-Cbtat's
guidance in 10,1E37 v, Wolf
• Civil Court Resolution of roperty Disputes Among Religious Organization&39 Am.. U.
L. Rev. 5/3 (I 990). This is the most useful law review article reviewed. Although the
author criticizes hierarchical deference and faVoit neutral principles, his case analyses are
very helpful. He divides cases into three categories and identifies- those cases. in each:
Hierarchical deference approach; Hybrid neutral principles and deference approach; and
Strict neutral principles approach. These summaries are quite useful to the litigator who
wants to know how-otherStates handle certain church property issues..
The Need far an Exclusive and Uniform Application, of "Neutral Principles" in the
Adjudication of Church ProperorDisputes, 32 St. Louis 263 (1987). This is
another useful article. Although it,criticizes the hierarchical deference approach, it
provides a good review of cases; 'especially those ruling on Presbyterian.Church and
Episcopal-Church property disputes. In addition, it provides a good review of core
Presbyterian-Church polity, especially the property trust. Most importantly, this article
explicitly notes the Presb.yterianChurth, in response to the Janes g Watt-Court,
adopted clear and binding provisions- in regards to church property;
"National churches themselves. may eliminate most of the uncertainty in the
application of neutral principles by adopting constitutionalprovisions which will
Unequivocally demonstrate- that the property of local churches is held in trust for
the national church."' Id. at 313.
"ECUS and UPCUSA have adopted such provisions in the wake of Jones g
Wolf: Mt seems clear that under either the polity or neutral principles
approach a court- must hold that the national church controls local property.
Indeed, the ad:option. of Stich proVisiptis will likely decrease the volume of church
property litigation. Local churches will recognize that an express trust in favor of.
the national church will compel summary judgment in favor of the.national
churchP: Id. at 314:
• "[AJ denomination that wishes. to optimize its chances ofprevailing in property
litigation would-he well-advised to adoptanunequivocat-declaration of expreSS
trust as found in the constitutions of the [Episcopal and Presbyterian churches)."
Id:at344-15.
76
FPC 001296
Church Prapepy Disputes: Churches tt,r Sender and Allen- Insritutians. 55 Fordhant L.
Rev. 335 (1986).. The author criticizes all existing church property doctrines and
proposes his own: Courts should review seatlar legal documents (_deeds, corporate
articles) solely. Footnote 4 in this article lists ninny other law review articles on the
topic.
Copyright. 2001,.2002,. and 2005 Presbyterian Church (t.)...sA.), A Corporation,
Rev. 12/21105
27
FPC 001297