Set forth by the UN in 2000, the MDGs are consonant with the core beliefs of the world's great religions. Indeed, they help Christians to bring hands and feet to the great commandment to love God and our neighbours as ourselves. The goals offer a form of deed-based evangelism that reminds people of faith that we can do little to improve a person's spiritual health while that person contends with starvation or disease.

The cause of action related to hiring was alleged against St. Mary's and the Episcopal Diocese.

Gregory Lowe, the attorney representing the couple in their civil case, said Wednesday the plaintiffs are seeking monetary damages but have not determined the amount.

"I can tell you that Euell's life has been turned on its head, and there are considerable damages," he said.

The civil case is due back in Superior Court April 11 for a case management conference.

"This is the most unusual setting for an Anglican service, ever," said Beth Kasch of Smyrna.

The former members of All Saints' Episcopal Church voted to split with the Episcopal Church in November, a local flashpoint in the international debate within the Anglican Church over homosexuality. The dissenting members oppose same-sex unions and weren't comfortable with the election of a new bishop this year who supports such unions.

As Christians dwindle in numbers in Bethlehem, concern is increasing for the future of what one bishop calls "the living stones" and the great shrines that "must not become museums," as one Christian from Beit Jala told the Archbishop of Canterbury. The streets, shops and hotels are "virtually empty," said one civic leader.