Church Celebrates New Beginning

It was a celebration with mixed emotions for a church in West El Paso.

Parishioners of the former St. Francis Episcopal church now have a new place of worship after splitting from the national church in 2008.

“I’ve been looking forward to this day when we express our faithfulness by leaving here,” says Bishop-elect Felix Orji.

The Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande decided to settle a 2008 lawsuit that challenged ownership of St. Francis. Both sides came to an agreement that forced the departing Anglican group to find a new location.

“I’m glad that we made a decision,” says parishioner Linda Moore, who made the switch over to the Anglican communion along with nearly 400 other members.

The new St. Francis Anglican Church opened its doors Sunday afternoon to celebrate the new location.

The church is expected to hold its first service next Sunday.