CHURCH PROPERTY

The Presbyterian Church understands itself to be a connectional system in covenant with one another.  As a result, church property which may be titled in the name of a church is held in trust for the Presbyterian Church as a whole.  It was purchased by our ancestors who wanted a Presbyterian presence with the hope that it would remain as such for future generations.  When a church seeks to sell, buy (with a mortgage), or encumber its property, it is required to consult with and gain the approval of the Presbytery through its Property and Loan Commission.

 

This recognizes the connectional nature of the Church but also provides an opportunity for a church to gain the perspective of others regarding the wisdom of their proposed action.  Churches seeking to sell, buy or encumber their property should complete the Preliminary Loan Application and submit it to the Property and Loan Commission through the Stated Clerk as soon as possible, so that the Presbytery can be involved in helpful ways without slowing down projects. A vital partner in church development is the Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program which loans money to churches at a lower than market rate.  The Book of Order also states that a church cannot enter into a long term lease without the approval of the Presbytery.  This policy is found on the Ministry section of our web site and requests should be made to the Committee on Ministry.

 

For further details, email the Property and Loan Committee Chairman: Rev. Sidney Venable III