A New Jersey town has moved to seize a 10-acre church property and turn it into recreational space, outfitted with pickleball courts and soccer fields. 

Christ Episcopal Church in Toms River, New Jersey, found itself at the center of a highly charged legal battle after its leaders moved to expand outreach to the area’s homeless population and proposed a 17-bed overnight shelter.

“It didn’t take long for neighbors to become concerned,” Harvey York, the church’s attorney, told Fox News Digital. 

On April 30, the Toms River Township Council placed an ordinance on its agenda to condemn the church’s 10-acre site, which includes the parish house, auditorium, school, sanctuary and deacon’s residence, under its eminent domain power. 

The property of Christ Episcopal Church in Toms River, New Jersey.

As for the church’s next steps, litigation is certain. 

“The plan will be decided by the diocese,” York said. “But they certainly will litigate the issue, and I believe it will be successful.”

The church’s attorney said the government should “mind their own business and stay out of the religious affairs of the community.” 

Five or six hearings have taken place, and the next zoning board meeting is scheduled for May 22. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Township of Toms River for comment on the pending litigation and the hearings.

The church originally applied in July 2023 to operate an outreach center for the homeless, an effort that was approved. According to York, their application for the shelter fully complies with local and state regulations.