Hood County Court denies
summary judgment motions, sets hearing date

Judge Ralph Walton has denied the Amended Motion for Summary Judgment submitted by St. Andrew's, Fort Worth, and the Diocese and Corporation in a case involving a bequest to the parish. He also denied a second motion for summary judgment submitted by local representatives of The Episcopal Church (TEC). Judge Walton heard arguments on the two motions on July 14. The parties have sought summary judgment as an alternative to a full trial, which is more costly and time-consuming.

Separately, the court has set a hearing for 9 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 2, to consider motions submitted by the TEC parties, resubmitting arguments already heard and denied which would delay the case till after the suit pending in Tarrant County is concluded, as well as a motion to prevent the attorney for the Diocese from representing the Diocese, citing Rule 12 of the Texas Civil Code.

Bishop Iker is grateful for the wise counsel provided by the entire legal team and encourages continued prayer support for them and for Judge Walton.