[DB]

It really matters what the details are here.

If the "organizers" asked for the original owner to bring in the painting for auction I'd be VERY suspicious.

Even if they didn't ask, if they knew (or suspected) the true value of the painting and didn't tell their "friend" that brought in for auction then they weren't much of a friend (or worse).

Total strangers is a different matter, but not all that different.

If, and that's a big if, they didn't have any idea of the true value of the painting and they risked their $3,200 in purchasing it to help the church. Then they don't owe anyone anything.

At least that's my opinion...

[Joe Hadenuf]

It probably wouldn't take much of an investigation to determine if inquiries were made regarding the actual value and authenticity of the painting, by any of the three "investors".