Church Property After Closure

Summary

When a church in Kansas closes, its assets, including the church and parsonage, are typically managed according to the churchs bylaws. If no bylaws exist, state laws may apply, potentially transferring assets to a parent organization, remaining members, or another nonprofit. The disposition of a renter in the parsonage would depend on the churchs bylaws, the renters lease terms, and state landlord-tenant laws. Consult a local attorney for detailed guidance.

Full Conversation

if a church and a parsonage have no mortgage and the church closes due to very few members and out of money. what happens to the church and parsonage?
Hello Michelle,
In Kansas, when a church closes, its assets, including real estate such as a church and parsonage, would generally be handled according to the church's bylaws. If no provision exists, state laws may apply:
- The assets might be transferred to a parent organization if one exists.
- If not, the assets might be distributed to the remaining members.
- In some cases, the assets might be donated to another nonprofit organization.
Please consult with a local attorney for specifics.
Can we still leave the renter in the pasonage?
Hello Michelle,
If the parsonage is part of the church's assets, the disposition of the renter would depend on the decision made regarding the assets. This situation might be governed by:
- The church's bylaws
- The terms of the renter's lease
- State landlord-tenant laws
Please consider seeking advice from a local attorney for more specific information.
thank you
You're welcome, Michelle! If you have any more questions in the future, don't hesitate to ask. Best of luck with everything.