South Carolina Circuit Judge Diane S. Goodstein released her decision yesterday that the Episcopal Church (TEC) and its local remnant, the Episcopal Church in South Carolina (ECSC) cannot expand their counterclaims against the Diocese of South Carolina to include almost two dozen parishioners who voluntarily serve as diocesan Trustees and members of the Diocese’s Standing Committee.
In her decision, Judge Goodstein wrote, “This court finds that the individual leaders whom Defendants seek to join as Counterclaim Plaintiffs are entitled to immunity” under state law. She also wrote that “adding the additional defendants would be futile.”
He is faithful.
Encouraging news for the wonderful Diocese of South Carolina. Thanks be to God.
I like that choice of word, “futile.” It suggests to me the judge has either decided (or is strongly leaning towards) for Bp Lawrence and the true SC Diocese.
It does indeed look that way, doesn’t it?
Attempting to add layfolk to this suit seems particularly wicked to me. Shame!
It tells me that they’re getting desperate when they stoop to doing things like this.
Getting desperate? This has been a standard tactic TEC has used against many congregations. SOP 101 for their scorched earth anti-church-like methods. So glad it wasn’t allowed this time.