Faith
Settlement Reached for Historic Nashville Church
Faith Facts
- A judge approved a settlement regarding the historic Central Church of Christ building in downtown Nashville.
- The century-old property will be sold, with 80% of proceeds going to the estate of founder A.M. Burton and 20% to the Nashville Church of Christ.
- A.M. Burton’s heirs, including faith leader Amy Grant, hope a charitable buyer continues the property’s legacy of service.
The court determined that the Nashville church violated a deed requiring the building benefit the Church of Christ. As a result, ownership reverted to A.M. Burton’s estate, while a probate court will oversee a market-value sale.
Most sale proceeds will go to the Burton estate, managed by Amy Grant and Andy Burton, while Nashville Church of Christ will receive a share. The estate’s tax liability is capped, and the adjacent parking remains with the church.
Longtime members departed after church leadership changes and a shift to online-only worship, leading to concern over the building’s neglected state. Tax debts have accrued, and the family sought to honor the founder’s purpose for the property.
“We care deeply about protecting A.M. Burton’s legacy. We were passionate and determined to stand up for our family and help right this wrong.”
A.M. Burton’s heirs established the Matthew 25 Fund to promote Christian charity and community service, hoping proceeds support works of faith in Nashville.
“Our hearts remain broken for the members who abruptly lost their beloved church home in 2018. … But we hope this significant milestone will shift the focus toward healing and moving forward.”
The Nashville church asserts its commitment to the global mission of making disciples and plans to use its share to further outreach and ministry. The community prays this outcome redeems the past and looks toward a future rooted in faith and service.