Published on October 3, 2024, 12:31 am

Image source: Fox News

In a recent development, an appeals court has upheld the ruling that a multisite Evangelical church in Michigan, Woodside Bible Church, is not exempt from paying taxes on a property previously believed to serve as a retreat and recreation space. It was in 2016 when Woodside Bible Church acquired this property – known as “The Lodge” – by the magnificent Lake Huron and contested it should be relieved from taxation due its religious affiliation.

The Michigan Court of Appeals, however, disagreed. The three-judge panel concluded that although some functions performed at the venue may be geared toward fulfilling the church’s mission, not all activities staged at the property could be classified as religious services or teachings about one’s faith– necessary prerequisites for a tax exemption under state law.

In breaking news reportage based on real news and trusted news sources, it was stated that according to evidence compiled from motions submitted, usage of “The Lodge” predominantly revolved around recreational use by third parties along with nonreligious ventures. Its promotional brochure seemingly added weight to this finding—painting more of an image akin to a secular hotel or vacation venue boasting opportunities for retreats, rest and escape from daily life rather than strictly adhering to any direct religious context. Furthermore, organizations renting the location were made primarily responsible for mapping out their event schedules.

Originating back in 1955 in Troy, Michigan; Woodside Bible Church expanded into multiple locations after merging with another struggling church located in Warren in 2005. Earlier this year, they revealed plans to donate “The Lodge” to Barnabus Ministries; aiming to continue advancing the mission of serving local churches by nurturing pastors and their spouses, enhancing marriages and developing leadership.

Woodside Bible Church persisted in its Christian worldview-oriented commitment when it assured constant collaboration with Barnabas Ministries for addressing increasing needs within pastoral circles and matrimony inside the Church buffer. They sought prayers for future beneficiaries who may partake in retreats hosted at “The Lodge” and those who might be affected by this shift, expressing confidence in God’s elusive workings to bless many lives across Woodside’s network and beyond. Thus, reinvigorating the thriving conversation around taxation laws and religious entities.