• Watchdog group wants federal investigation of Minnesota church

A Washington watchdog group is calling for a federal investigation into the finances of Living Word Christian Center (LWCC) of Brooklyn Park, Minn., alleging the church arranged lucrative deals for its senior pastor that allowed him to buy a plane and house in Florida.

The senior pastor, James "Mac" Hammond, allegedly is using the church to boost his finances via a series of loans and leases, taking advantage of the church's non-profit status.