Worcester Diocese Seeks Dismissal of Lawsuit Involving Former Catholic Retreat Center in Northbridge

MassLIve
June 6, 2014

http://www.masslive.com/news/worcester/index.ssf/2014/06/worcester_diocese_seeks_dismis.html

A lawyer for the Roman Catholic Worcester Diocese has asked a judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed against the church by two gay men who say they were denied the right to buy diocesan property because church officials were concerned they would host gay weddings there.

James Fairbanks and Alain Beret filed suit two years ago for loss of civil rights and dignity and for emotional distress.

They planned to buy Oakhurst, a former Catholic retreat in Northbridge, and turn it into a venue for special events.

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The judge did not immediately rule.

In March, Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley filed a brief in Worcester District Court, arguing that anti-discrimination laws should apply to religious institutions.