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There were a quite a few spare seats when the court convened at 10am. A few more people wandered in during the morning but the courtroom was not filled as it was during the original trial. It was only half full for the afternoon. Perhaps the second week of September, so early in the new school year and after everyone’s summer holidays, is a busy time for people as they adjust to the fall schedule and it was difficult to get to court.
Geoff Cowper, Stanley Martin and Keri Gammon sat on one side for the ANiC churches. George Macintosh and Tim Dickson sat on the other side for the Diocese and bishop.
Mr. Cowper gave an eloquent opening statement for the first half of the morning, and reviewed the important facts in the second half of the morning. In the afternoon, he began his review of the trial decision and made submissions on how the trial judge made errors of law in his decision. The judges had no questions throughout the 2 hour opening although a few questions did arise during the rest of the day.
It is hard to tell how the judges are receiving the argument, but I can say that the ANiC members in the courtroom were very impressed with Mr. Cowper’s coherent and cogent presentation. We could not have retained better counsel.
Despite my best efforts, I was not able to complete a full summary of the submissions by late last night (early this morning, actually . . .) so I am sending this brief summary today. However, I am working on a fuller description of the arguments and will circulate that in due course for those inclined to read such legal briefs. It may not be circulated until after the hearing, but I will see whether time allows me to do it in the next few days.
Please continue to uphold our legal counsel and the judges in prayer. I also request we pray for those who oppose us. Pray that hearts and minds will be open and filled with godly wisdom and discernment.
You should also pray that regardless of the outcome, God will be glorified and we will be faithful and steadfast witnesses. Remember that we are not fighting over property and assets, but for the right to maintain our faith and continue our biblically faithful Anglican ministry in the churches that were founded and built for that purpose.
Thanks again for your prayers and partnership in the gospel.
Cheryl Chang
Chancellor
Anglican Network in Canada
September 14, 2010
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