Bishop Accused of Stealing $200,000 Donation Meant for El Cajon, California, Church Remodel

Bishop Marnaba Yousif Habash, also known as Yousif Abdulmasih, faces allegations of misusing a $200,000 donation intended for the remodeling of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Syriac Catholic Church in El Cajon. A civil lawsuit filed earlier this month names the bishop as the defendant, with Hani Toma, a member of the church, as the plaintiff. Toma claims he donated the cash after being told the church needed funds for the project and was relying on donations to complete it.

According to the lawsuit, the bishop approached Toma at his workplace on June 8 and collected the money in cash. Toma, however, later spoke with a priest at the church who informed him that the church had always had sufficient funds to carry out the remodeling and that no donation had ever been received. This discrepancy has led to the legal action, with Toma alleging that the bishop misrepresented the church’s financial situation to secure the donation.

The lawsuit further states that the bishop left California for Michigan following the incident. Efforts by ABC 10News to contact the bishop have been unsuccessful. El Cajon Police have indicated they are not involved in the case and have found no criminal charges against the bishop. The matter remains under civil legal proceedings.

The case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in religious institutions, particularly when financial matters are involved. The Syriac Catholic Church, like many religious communities, often relies on donations to support its operations and infrastructure. The alleged misappropriation of funds raises questions about the integrity of leadership within such organizations.

The situation underscores the need for clear communication and ethical conduct in handling congregational contributions. While the church’s leadership may have had its own financial resources, the alleged actions of the bishop have created a breach of trust. The outcome of the civil lawsuit will determine whether the bishop is held accountable for the alleged misuse of funds.

This case serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with leadership in any community. The biblical principle of justice, mercy, and humble service, as outlined in Micah 6:8, calls for leaders to act with integrity and care for those under their guidance. The resolution of this matter will have implications for the trust and confidence of the congregation and the broader community.

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