[Episcopal Diocese of Virginia] Late last night [April 27], the Fairfax Circuit Court ruled in favor of the Diocese, denying the Falls Church Anglican’s motion to stay the Court’s order throughout their appeal. While the Court’s Final Order of March 1 requires that the Falls Church Anglican vacate the property by April 30, the Diocese of Virginia has voluntarily moved the deadline to May 15. In addition, the Falls Church Day School, which has served the families of Falls Church for 50 years, will remain at the Falls Church and return to the oversight of the Falls Church (Episcopal).
“We are pleased with the Court’s decision, and are gratified that the Falls Church (Episcopal) may return to their church home,” said Henry D.W. Burt, secretary of the Diocese.
The leadership of the Diocese and in each affected parish, beginning with Bishop Johnston, has shown great courage and admirable faith throughout this ordeal. May God bless the continuing Church in Virginia and ECUSA.
Bishop Johnston and the people of the Diocese of Virginia, are to be commended for the measured, reasonable and compassionate approach to resolving the conflict. He has modeled firm, direct Christian leadership.
As I read the decision of the Court in its denial of a stay, my thoughts went to all the members of the Falls Church Episcopal and to its leadership who so persevered with such a tremendous amount of faith. My prayers are with you as you re-enter your home. I praise all the continuing congregations as they find their homes again. I give thanks to the Diocese of Virginia but I know that we have lost many friends along the way. I pass my peace to them and hope that someday we may again be one. Let us lay this at the feet of Our Lord and may we all find rest,