GARDEN GROVE (AP) — Vendors who provided services for the annual “Glory of Christmas” pageant at the Crystal Cathedral megachurch say they are owed tens of thousands by the church, which has been drowning in debt.
Kristina Oliver, who provides live animals for the pageant’s manger scene, said Thursday she has been trying to collect nearly $57,000 from the church for several months.
Another vendor who provided costumes says she is owed more than $10,000.
The cathedral was founded by televangelist Robert H. Schuller and airs the weekly “Hour of Power” telecast worldwide.
Church administrators said in an e-mail to vendors the church has severe financial difficulties and can’t afford to pay them now.
The church is $55 million in debt and announced major layoffs earlier this year.
