McClellan dodges
church-split question

By Les Kinsolving
Published December 14, 2005 at 5:00pm

Presidential press secretary Scott McClellan today refused to weigh in on the property-rights controversy that occurs when local churches divorce themselves from their denominations.

At today's White House press briefing, WND asked McClellan about recent court decisions stating the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles does not have the right to confiscate the property of three parishes that seceded from the Episcopal Church over the issue of homosexual clergy and same-sex unions.

"Does the president agree with this decision that no diocese should be able to seize the property of any local church whose people have paid far more for the property and maintenance than the diocese?" asked WND.

Responded McClellan: "Well, I think it's a legal matter best left to our courts."

"No," pressed WND, "the decision is in. How does the president feel [about it]?"

Said the spokesman: "Well, these are issues relating to the church, and I'd – you should address those questions to the church."

Superior Court Judge David Velasquez on Monday dismissed a suit by the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles against All Saints' of Belmont Heights and St. David's of North Hollywood, Calif., allowing the parishes to keep their property. His decision mirrored one in August involving a church in Newport Beach, Calif.

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