The Way International filed suit against The Way Ministries in U.S.Federal Court on July 13th, 2007 over their use of the words "The Way" in its name.  The original complaint (pdf) can be found in GreaseSpot's Downloads section.

Excerpts from the complaint:

Plaintiff has provided religious educational services and related materials under the trademark/service mark THE WAY, and variations thereof, in the United States and internationally for more than 50 years.

Plaintiff has spent substantial time, money and effort establishing its reputation or scholarship and services in religious education, fellowship and related fields. This reputationis identified by various marks, both registered and unregistered, that use or incorporate THE WAY

Plaintiff preaches to new otential followers and solicits charitable contributions from its current followers under its marks THE WAY and Plaintiff’s Marks.

Plaintiff promotes and advertises its services, products and marks in interstate and oreign commerce through many avenues, including magazines, newsletters, books, note cards,and audio and video tapes. Plaintiff spends a substantial amount of effort and money on such romotion and advertising. As a result of these activities, Plaintiff has developed a reputation asa recognized provider of religious instruction, educational materials and fellowship.

By reason of the promotion, advertising, media coverage, and the people whohave sought Plaintiff’s teachings, services, and products, Plaintiff’s Marks--since long prior toDefendant’s acts complained of herein--have come to be recognized by the public as identifyingThe Way International and its products and services, and readily serve to distinguish Plaintiff rom other religious groups.

Plaintiff actively polices possible infringements of Plaintiff’s Marks, and takesappropriate action to protect its Marks.      

Plaintiff has not authorized Darnell or the Way Ministries, Inc. to utilize the THEWAY mark in any manner at any time. 

It doesn't appear to be going well for The Way Ministries.  Their web site is currently offline.  Who could blame them though.  Try to match the staggering amount of money The Way is feeding their lawyers or change your name.  If your focus is on promoting Christianity and not protecting a revenue stream, seems a rather easy decision.

For those who continue to give money to The Way International: "Your abundant sharing at work," a.k.a. lining the pockets of Baker & Hostetler, LLP.

Commentary and analysis in GreaseSpot's forum.