Today, April 15, 2015, the South Carolina Supreme Court agreed to take the appeal of Judge Goodstein's February 3rd ruling in favor of the Diocese of South Carolina and its parishes. We are grateful that the South Carolina Supreme Court acted so promptly to take jurisdiction of this case, just as it did when requested during the attempted procedural delays prior to the trial. The more quickly the case is resolved, the more beneficial it will be for all parties, allowing us to get about the work of ministry without the incessant distraction of courtroom proceedings.

“We’re delighted that the SC Supreme Court is taking the appeal now and that it won’t have to go through the state court of appeals before it could be heard by the state’s highest court,” said the Rev. Canon Jim Lewis. “Our aim all along has been to protect the Diocese, its identity and properties from The Episcopal Church, which has sued more than 80 other churches and dioceses which sought to leave. We’re grateful that the South Carolina judicial system has expeditiously moved this case forward.”