The Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocese of South Carolina the Trustees of the Protestant Epi — Hearn, J…

Summary

Justice Hearn concurring with the lead opinion, holds that the National Episcopal Church is a hierarchical body whose recognized bishop controls the disputed property, and that the Dennis Canon creates an enforceable trust in favor of the National Church. She therefore affirms the majority’s reversal of the trial court and confirms title to the thirty‑six parishes and Camp Saint Christopher to the National Church. The opinion also emphasizes ecclesiastical deference and First Amendment constraints on civil courts.