The Los Angeles Times reported today that the iconic Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, founded by Robert Schuller, will be sold in bankruptcy proceedings and to repay more than $50 million to creditors and vendors. Church officials told The LA Times that worship services and outreach ministry would not be affected by the sale and that the church maintains an option to lease the property for a further 15 years. Church spokesperson John Charles called the sale “great news” because it allows the church to get out from under a more than $30 million mortgage. The 40-acre parcel will be sold to a real-estate investment firm, who after four years will give the church the option to buy back the main buildings, including the glass-paned cathedral and the huge “Tower of Hope.” The church has seen many challenges since filing for bankruptcy, including family discord among the Schullers and questions about its financial decisions. The sale of the property could be approved as early as June 1.
