The court battle over church assets between the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia and 11 breakaway congregations has already cost both sides more than $2 million, according to representatives.
The secessionist Anglican District of Virginia has spent about $1 million on legal fees thus far and anticipates spending as much as $3 million to $5 million on the litigation, said vice chair Jim Oakes.
The money is being raised through donations from the 11 churches, Oakes said, though only five have contributed so far.
Patrick N. Getlein, a spokesman for the Diocese of Virginia, said the diocese has spent “over a million” on legal fees to date. The diocese recently reported that it has taken out a $2 million line of credit for the litigation.
Oakes said the assets in dispute are worth approximately $30 million; Getlein said he could not provide an estimate of their worth.
The Episcopal Church maintains that church assets are held in trust for the national church and is attempting to block efforts by the congregations to assert ownership of the property.
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