Pastor’s Widow Sues Church Board Over $25M in Property Value

A widow of a Jacksonville pastor is pursuing legal action against the board of her late husband’s church, alleging they are attempting to seize millions of dollars in church assets. The lawsuit, filed by April Washington, the widow of Pastor Rodney “R.J.” Washington, claims the board of directors of Titus Harvest Dome Spectrum Church has excluded her from the church’s properties and financial assets.

The News4Jax I-TEAM calculated the total market value of the properties in question, determining they are worth more than $25 million. Washington asserts she is entitled to these assets, which include the East Arlington megachurch, another church on Beach Boulevard, four downtown buildings, and the Marble Waters Hotel, which the church owns through a separate entity.

Washington’s attorney, Bacardi Jackson, described the situation as one of “greed and deceit and breaches of trust.” He emphasized that Washington believes she has a rightful claim to the properties her husband owned. The properties, according to Duval County Property Appraiser Jerry Holland, could be worth significantly more than the calculated $25 million.

Holland noted that seven of the nine parcels in question are tax-exempt due to the church’s nonprofit status, meaning the organization only pays taxes on $3.5 million worth of property. However, he also stated that the board retains control over the land and buildings owned by the church. This control is a point of contention in the legal dispute, as the board has not granted Washington access or authority over the assets.

The case highlights the complexities of property ownership within religious institutions, particularly when there is no established denomination or hierarchy to guide decisions regarding assets. Holland explained that larger religious organizations often have structures in place, such as dioceses or conventions, to manage such matters. In contrast, smaller or independent congregations may face challenges in determining the appropriate course of action when disputes arise.

The dispute raises questions about accountability and governance within religious organizations, particularly concerning the stewardship of financial and physical assets. It underscores the importance of transparency and clear legal frameworks to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders, including widows and families of deceased clergy, are protected.

Source: Read the original report