Rector, Churchwardens & Vestrymen of the Church of the Holy Trinity v. Melish

The unfortunate controversy which is the basis of this action has lead to bitterness and discord among the members of the congregation and among those charged with the duty of administering the business of the church. The intensity of the dispute has resulted in undignified and unseemly conduct within and about the place of worship. There seems to be no room for compromise, no common ground upon which the disputants can meet.

This court may not be concerned with the underlying reasons for the differences between the contending factions, or with questions of policy or philosophy of one or the…