This matter came before this court for a hearing on December 14, 2007 upon the Plaintiffs’ Motion for Preliminary Injunction pursuant to Rule 65 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. Plaintiffs sought, inter alia, a preliminary injunction restraining and enjoying the Defendant, G.L. Brightharp, from continuing to act as pastor, and continuing to have access to, and control of the premises and property of Mount Canaan Baptist Church in Trenton, South Carolina. Plaintiffs further sought an injunction reinstating Plaintiffs to their former positions within the Church. The controversy centers on whether the Defendant has resigned or was terminated as Pastor of Mount Canaan Baptist Church on September 11, 2007. After the taking of some testimony, it is apparent that this Court does not have sufficient time to hear all of the witnesses which the parties wish to present. It appears further that the parties may be able to heal their own wounds and resolve this matter with grace and dignity, if given additional time to do so.

The Court has determined that it shall not make a ruling at this time on the request for preliminary injunction to enjoy and restrain Defendant Brightharp from the Church. The Court shall retain jurisdiction of this matter, and postpone a ruling to give the parties an opportunity to come together, heal their own wounds, and resolve this matter.

The Court finds and Orders that the Plaintiffs shall be immediately reinstated to their former positions as Trustees and Deacons respectively with all rights and responsibilities appertaining thereto. Any actions taken after September 11, 2007 affecting their status and the affairs of the church shall be null and void.

It is further Ordered that in the event that the parties cannot resolve this matter within a reasonable period of time, either party may request further relief from this Court.

AND IT IS SO ORDERED,
Casey L. Manning
Presiding Judge of the Circuit Court
For the Eleventh Judicial Circuit
Columbia, South Carolina
December 20, 2007