When it comes to big business and the law, churches are not backing down. Recently, a group of churches joined forces in an effort to stand up for themselves in an association lawsuit, and they’re making their voices heard loud and clear. This article will break down the details of this historic legal action and discuss the implications for the churches involved.
What Is the Association of Related Churches Lawsuit?
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) is a nationwide, non-denominational church organization. In September 2019, the organization filed a lawsuit alleging that a former employee “crafted a false story about ARC in order to gain leverage” and to extort money from the church organization. The lawsuit also claims the former employee created a hostile work environment and was ultimately fired from her position in May 2017.
In addition, the lawsuit alleges the former employee made false statements to church members and ARC donors. Specifically, she is accused of alleging ARC chief executive officer Matt Keller was personally involved in her termination and that it was done in order to obstruct justice. Other statements include claims that Keller was responsible for producing a “hostile” work environment, as well as intentional misrepresentations of other ARC employees.
The case is ongoing, and ARC is seeking relief from the damages caused by the former employee’s alleged actions. ARC is seeking punitive and compensatory damages, as well as legal costs.
It remains to be seen whether or not the churches’ lawsuit will be successful, but the fact that these churches are willing to fight for their rights is a strong indication of how serious the issue is. The results of this lawsuit could have a major impact on the rights of churches to associate together in the future.