Two factions battle for control of Kentucky-based church

Posted: Sat 10:50 AM, Mar 16, 2013

DANVILLE, Ky. (AP) - A court battle is under way for control of the Danville-based Church of God of America.

The Advocate-Messenger reports a group of people claiming to be elders and members of the church filed suit in Boyle Circuit Court to wrest control of it from its bishop and president, Tim Napier.

The battle began in 2010 after the organization's main worship house and headquarters in Danville burned down and nearly $1 million was collected in insurance money.

The plaintiffs, Eric L. Barnes, his son Justin Barnes and William Fay, all of Somerset, claim church funds have been misappropriated.

Napier denied the accusation. He said the plaintiffs have no authority within the church and are trying to sabotage his efforts to rebuild it.

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