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St. James Anglican Church in Newport Beach, California, is filing a petition for writ of certiorari in late May 2009 with the United States Supreme Court in a property dispute which affects countless churches, religious groups, and congregations throughout America. A petition for certiorari means that St. James is asking the Justices to review the opinion rendered by the California Supreme Court. It includes a list of the parties, a statement of the facts of the case, the legal questions presented for review, and arguments as to why the Court should grant the petition.

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Important Dates

Important dates to watch as this case makes its way to the United States Supreme Court. Please know that some dates are approximate and subject to change. Sign up for site alerts to be notified of changes.

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FAQs

Your questions about this important case answered here.  Not finding what you're looking for?   Contact us directly with your questions or feedback.

Why did St. James end its affiliation with the Episcopal Church?

In August 2004, St. James Church disaffiliated from the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles and the Episcopal Church over theological differences. St. James believes that the Episcopal Church chose a path that did not reflect our faith.  We chose to follow our religious beliefs. More information about St.

Where can I read more about the case history of the church’s litigation?

More information about this case can be found in other sections of this Web site:
See also:

Why is St. James simultaneously pursuing its legal case in Orange County’s Superior Court?

St. James is required to do so by the California Supreme Court. In late February 2009, the case returned to the Orange County Superior Court where St. James can now assert factual and legal arguments, through discovery, depositions, motions, and trial, that it did not have the opportunity to raise in the earlier phase of the litigation. In March 2009, St.

How can I support St. James’ appeal and receive updates?

There are several easy ways to stay informed about case developments and updates to this Web site.

What is the timeline?

A full timeline of the case history is available in the "Important Dates" section of our Web site.

Has the U.S. Supreme Court heard similar appeals in the past?

The U.S. Supreme Court has grappled with how to decide church property disputes without deciding the underlying religious dispute, recognizing that resolving such disputes on religious grounds would likely violate the First Amendment’s prohibition on the establishment of religion.

What is involved in appealing to the U.S. Supreme Court?

St. James has the opportunity to pursue an appeal to the United States Supreme Court, called a petition for a writ of certiorari.

Why did St. James decide to appeal to the U. S. Supreme Court?

St. James Anglican Church purchased and maintained its property with its own funds and has held clear record title to its property for over fifty years. St. James has fought several court battles to keep its property since ending its affiliation with the Episcopal Church in 2004, including to the California Supreme Court. Now it is time to appeal to the highest court in the land.

How will a U.S. Supreme Court decision in St. James’ favor impact churches and groups in other denominations and faiths?

Dozens of church property cases are percolating in the court system lacking constitutional direction, and states are in conflict regarding the handling of church property cases. These cases involve many different faiths and religious groups. A United States Supreme Court decision in favor of St.

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Show your support and take a public stand with Steadfast in Faith by signing up now. Join other citizens, organizations, and media groups concerned about the far reaching implications of the St. James Church property dispute.

Questions or Feedback?

Contact the SteadfastInFaith.org team directly using our online contact form or by reaching us at:

St James Anglican Church
Attn: SteadfastInFaith.org
3209 Via Lido
Newport Beach CA 92663
www.stjamesnb.org
Tel: +1 (949) 675-0210