wfn.org | Federal judge hears arguments in Dixon v. Edwards

[ENS@ecunet.org]

2001-225

ENS News Bulletin: 

     Federal judge hears arguments in Dixon v. Edwards

     (ENS) The conflict between bishop pro tempore Jane Holmes Dixon of the 
Diocese of Washington, DC and the Rev. Sam Edwards over who is to be the rector 
of Christ Church, Accokeek, Maryland moved into Federal court August 23, as US 
District Judge Peter Messitte heard arguments in the case filed by Dixon in June. 

     A decision is not expected for several weeks.

     Messitte persuaded both parties to agree to mediation under the auspices of 
the court, with the possibility of a negotiated settlement prior to the court 
issuing a ruling.

     The judge's questions suggested he was attempting to separate the issues of 
Dixon's access to the parish from the issue of the removal of Edwards as rector.

     Edwards was present at the hearing. Dixon is vacationing in Scotland.

     "This case should not be here today, it should not be in the secular court," 
said Charles Nalls, attorney for Edwards and the parish vestry. "It's a matter 
for the church to consider."

     "We've never been opposed to talking, but not at the expense of changing the 
Episcopal Church," said David Schnorrenberg, attorney for the diocese. "It would 
be completely unprecedented if the judge rules in favor of Edwards. It would 
change the Episcopal Church into a congregational church."