The Legal Defense Fund Committee shares the joy and optimism associated with Judge Goodstein’s ruling. Despite a judgment that decisively supports our Diocese, TEC has announced it will appeal. The appeal is consistent with the pattern of litigation followed by TEC against dioceses that disagree with its theology and polity. Conservative estimates point to TEC having spent in excess of $40 million suing dioceses and/or parishes.

The Legal Defense Fund Committee (LDFC) estimates an appeal will cost our Diocese $300,000 in addition to the $2 million raised in the special legal fund initiative, TAKE YOUR STAND!

To underwrite the legal costs associated with the appeal, the Diocesan Council approved establishing The 1785 Society, reflective of the year our Diocese was founded. To join The 1785 Society, an individual or family pledges to contribute $1,785. While ideally the gift will be paid in total by June 30, 2015, the pledge could be paid over two years at $900 per year or three years at $600 per year.

A 1785 Society of 168 members would underwrite the $300,000 needed for the appeal.

Becoming a member of The 1785 Society is a gift in addition to your financial commitment to your parish. Members of The 1785 Society receive a newly designed lapel pin with the Seal of the Diocese of South Carolina and 1785 Society below it, as well as be invited to the annual dinner of the Society hosted by Bishop Lawrence.

The next year will define the future of our Diocese. Your generosity will ensure that the properties built and maintained by generations of loyal parishioners will remain with those parishes for generations to come as Judge Goodstein has affirmed. More important, your generosity will ensure that the vibrant mission, ministry and vision of our Diocese will be proclaimed to all who hunger and thirst for the Word of the Lord.

Please TAKE YOUR STAND, affirming with joy and gratitude all the Lord has done for our Diocese and parishioners by making a special, tax-deductable gift to the Legal Defense Fund and prayerfully consider joining The 1785 Society.

You may donate online, or if you prefer to mail your gifts, you may print The 1785 Society form and mail your checks payable to The Diocese of South Carolina, noting “Legal Defense Fund - 1785” to The Diocese of South Carolina, Legal Defense Fund, Post Office Box 20127, Charleston SC 29413.

Thank you and God Bless the Diocese of South Carolina!