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Property fight in Virginia costs millions Episcopal church assets

The court battle over church assets between the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia and 11 breakaway congregations has already cost both sides more than $2 million between them, according to representatives.

The secessionist Anglican District of Virginia has spent about $1 million on legal fees thus far and anticipates spending as much as $3 million to $5 million on the litigation, said vice chair Jim Oakes. The money is being raised through donations from the 11 churches, Oakes said, though only five had contributed by early January.