Legal Updates & Court Decisions
Standing on Truth, Transparency, and Faith
The Abyssinian Baptist Church is committed to keeping our congregation and community informed with clarity, integrity, and respect. This page provides accurate information regarding recent legal matters involving the Church that have been fully and decisively dismissed by the courts.
Recent Lawsuits Dismissed
Update on the Appeal: McGruder v. The Abyssinian Baptist Church
On September 9, 2026, counsel for The Abyssinian Baptist Church and Rev. Dr. Kevin R. Johnson filed the Church’s response to the appeal of the lawsuit challenging his election as the 21st Senior Pastor. The brief asks the Appellate Division to uphold the Supreme Court’s dismissal of the case.
New York Supreme Court — Election Challenge
The New York Supreme Court has dismissed the lawsuit challenging the election of Rev. Dr. Kevin R. Johnson as the 21st Senior Pastor of The Abyssinian Baptist Church. The Court found no legal basis to overturn the duly conducted election of the congregation.
This ruling affirms the Church’s governance process and the integrity of its democratic decision-making.
Supreme Court Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Pastoral Election
Status: Dismissed in Full on December 19, 2025
On December 19, 2025, the Supreme Court of the State of New York, New York County, dismissed the lawsuit challenging the election of Rev. Dr. Kevin R. Johnson as the 21st Senior Pastor of The Abyssinian Baptist Church. The Court found no fraud or wrongdoing in the June 2024 election and upheld the congregation’s vote as conducted in accordance with the Church’s Bylaws.
Federal Court Dismisses Employment Discrimination Claims
Status: Dismissed in Full on March 31, 2025
On March 31, 2025, a Federal Court dismissed all claims brought against The Abyssinian Baptist Church related to alleged employment discrimination. The Court ruled that the claims were barred under the First Amendment’s ministerial exception, which protects a church’s right to make decisions regarding its religious leadership without government interference.
The Court’s decision confirms long-established constitutional protections afforded to faith institutions.