The Roman Catholic Church has proved once again that when it comes to displaying financial clout, it is far more powerful than any Protestant denomination or congregation in the U.S. What is also seen here is the increasing political and social clout of the Catholic church. The Catholic Church, in all honesty, is a rich and powerful political organisation with its capital as the Vatican. It has spread its tentacles so deep into Protestant America that the nation will in a couple of decades hence cannot claim Protestant majority. Despite the mega-churches of the evangelicals, they are no match for the super-rich Roman Catholics. I wouldn't be surprised if Catholics have also targeted the evangelical Wheaton College in Illinois. Catholics have a singular aim of dominating America and over-powering the Protestants. What was the need to acquire Crystal cathedral when they could have constructed their own church? This acquisition is a slap on the face of American Protestants. But then the question arises - how does the acquisition of this Church bring about spiritual fulfillment among the Catholic parishioners of the county? Is Jesus Christ happy with this acquisition and patting the Pope on his back for the commendable job of acquiring a magnificent Protestant building made of glass, steel and marble? With this the Catholic Church has increased her assets and proved that money power is all that counts on earth. They aren't really bothered about Jesus' kingdom in heaven.

Mr. Petrie,
You have proven one point. That is that you are a prejudiced man against the Catholic Church, this purchase, and against the intent of the Ecumenical Counsel.
You are absolutely wrong about the Catholic Church being politically involved, at least, in Orange County. After Loretta Sanchez's past unauthorized political antics recruiting support from Catholics in Santa Ana, there is an extremely strict dictate for non political involvement from The Orange County Diocese.
I personally support the freedom of religion in the United States and would never criticize a persons right to choose. Like San Francisco Solano in Rancho Santa Margarita, there are many churches which provide support such as food on a weekly basis and also money to needy citizens. I am personally aware and applaud, i.e. The Saddleback Church, for their help in so many ways to people in need.
The Orange County Diocese has been in need of a new cathedral for a long time, saved $45 million dollars with this purchase and please remember the Catholic Church was the personal choice recommended by Dr. Robert Schuller (Founder-Crystal Cathedral).
Please examine your heart and try to discern if you are exhibiting a Christian attitude with your comments?
Hopefully all churches and persuasions will be tolerant of each other and able to get along some day!

No need to get paranoid. Nothing nefarious here. The Catholic Diocese needed a bigger facility, and the Crystal Cathedral congregation needed relief from its crushing debt. This was a mutually beneficial solution - a "win-win". Even the Crystal Cathedral's board approved it. It's unfortunate that the congregation is losing their beautiful sanctuary, but they will be able to continue to worship in a smaller venue. Meanwhile, one of the county's most recognizable and beautiful landmarks is preserved as a place for people to admire and for Christians to worship.

As a Catholic, I was astonished to learn from Mr. Petrie that I am super-rich. This would also be news to my bank. I always thought the ranks of the super-rich were male WASPs, silly me.