Skip to main content
(678) 915-2634 Contact Us
Georgia churches forced into foreclosure Atlanta, GA

Personal Attention & Experience Since 1971 Family-Owned, Family Focused

Client Reviews

Georgia churches forced into foreclosure

Judge Gavel, Scales of Justice and legal books on the desk

As homeowners throughout Georgia and across the country struggle with unemployment, debt, bankruptcy and foreclosure, the effects of their financial difficulties often have a lesser-seen ripple effect on their communities. One growing example of this is the increase in church foreclosures that has taken place in recent years. When church members can no longer afford to tithe to their church, or are forced to move out of their homes and away from their congregation, the church also has a loss of income. And with the high occurrence of financial difficulties among churchgoers, church foreclosures are becoming more and more common.

Prior to the recession, church foreclosures were almost unheard-of. However, from 2006 to 2010, upwards of 90 metro Atlanta churches were placed into foreclosure by mortgage lenders. Of those 90 churches, approximately 50 were repossessed and placed for sale. The fact that 40 churches avoided foreclosure shows that many lenders are willing to work with church leaders, not wanting to ‘foreclose on God’. However, when multi-million dollar debts are owed to lenders, they often do not have a choice but to foreclose.

A common reason for church foreclosure is ambition combined with a lack of foresight. With booming membership, many churches began expansions and additions in recognition of their growing congregation. Unfortunately, the recession halted that membership boom, and left church leaders with a big church and an even bigger mortgage. Axel Adams of the Rainbow PUSH coalition says that churches can’t really be blamed for this, as economics are not their area of expertise. “I think a lot of churches were not really prepared,” he said. “We have pastors who read the Bible and interpret Scripture, but a lot were really not paying attention to what was going on economically.”

Community leaders lament the loss of churches, saying that they also represent a loss of outreach, service, and support to the local community. “You’re not just losing property,” said the Rev. Michael Wright of Concerned Black Clergy of Metropolitan Atlanta. “Back in the day, a lot of communities were built around the church. We’re losing an information center, a community center, and a centerpiece of the community.”

Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “Foreclosure crisis hitting some metro churches”, Shelia M. Poole and Craig Schneider, 2 February 2011

Posted on behalf of Jamie L. Gingold, PC

195 14th Street NE #1604
Atlanta, GA 30309

Phone: (678) 915-2634

Email:

First Free
Appointment




    DisclaimerPrivacy Policy

    I have read the Disclaimer and Privacy Policy

    Our Client Reviews

    Jamie L. Gingold, PC
    5.0 / 5.0

    Based on 28 reviews

    Jack L.

    They did an excellent job with my case. Jamie took the time to really listen and understand things. She delved into the details and was extremely knowledgeable and non judgmental. Very professional and they know what they are doing. Would definitely recommend!

    Karen B.

    Dear Mr Gingold, There are so many reasons to be thankful for all you have done and will do. Anyone who has ever had unfavorable experiences with an attorney or the legal system will feel the trepidation that I experienced once I realized that my situation seemed hopeless. It was by chance and happily good luck that I decided to put my future and sanity into your hands. I was mortified at having to deal with my debts by claiming bankruptcy. I remember in our first meeting how you assured me that I was not alone and should not feel ashamed. And, anyone in this position obviously does not have money to spare and you were clear about all the costs and allowing me to pay according to my own ability to do so. You advised me in all aspects of the law, but also, you were at each meeting incredibly supportive and complementary of my personal and professional plans. Anyone else in this situation should feel blessed to have access to your expertise and support.

    Lyla B.

    I thought the process of filing bankruptcy was going to be a difficult one. However, Gingold & Gingold treated me with respect and dignity from the moment I walked through their door. I had the pleasure of working with Jamie. She is very responsive, professional, and knowledgeable. She took the time and listened to my every concern and handled each and every one of them to my satisfaction. My experience with filing bankruptcy under Gingold & Gingold's representation exceeded my expectations in a major way. They gave me such a peace of mind. I am very pleased with my decision of going with Gingold & Gingold to represent me when I filed Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

    Julie T.

    Wow! I am finally out of debt and can say that I am debt free after completing my chapter 7 bankruptcy case with Gingold and Gingold. Mr dangled was very knowledgeable and direct with regard to my debt situation. there were no surprises and the case went as I was advised. The staff was also very helpful whenever I had a question. I will definitely recommend them in the future to my friends.

    Julie T.

    I contacted getting old and getting old regarding some old tax debt and credit card debt that I needed to address and had been putting off. miss Irving in the office was very very nice and put me at ease. I met with Jaime Gingold. She was very nice and explained the procedure to me and what would be left owing to the Internal Revenue Service and the State of Georgia after my case was done. My case has now been completed and I am on my way to a new start. Thank you Gingold and Gingold for all of your help.

    Anna T.

    Amazing! Outstanding!! They went over and beyond..I would recommend them to anyone needing a lawyer!!

    Write a review