Religious Organizations and Ecclesiastical Law

Attorneys at Wheeler Upham have done legal work for many religious organizations, from governing bodies such as the Presbytery of Lake Michigan to local congregations, schools, camps, and other affiliated groups. The scope of this work has included incorporation of entities, securing recognition as federal tax exempt organizations, securing real property exemptions, helping to determine ownership and control of church property, employment issues, zoning, and matters arising under the establishment clause of the United States Constitution.

Religious organizations located in west Michigan for whom members of the firm have provided legal services and advice include Tri-unity Christian School Association, Gospel Communications International, Inc., Haitian Holiness Ministries, Wesley Fellowship at GVSU, St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Jenison Bible Church, Temple Emanuel, Eastern Avenue Christian Reformed Church, Eastminster and Westminster Presbyterian Churches, Anchor Point Christian School, First United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids, the Salvation Army, and the YMCA.

Contact one of these attorneys for help with a religious organization:

John M. Roels
Michael J. TerBeek