Church/public school question

[MISSDem]

I've been seeing ads in the local newspaper for a new church. The ads say that the first service of this church will be held in the cafeteria of one of the local public schools. Should I be concerned and asking someone about this? Like are they renting the facility or what? Every time I see the ad I feel uncomfortable but don't know if I'm just paranoid.

[Bridget Burke]

1. Ask about it.

Renting might be OK--if they only meet on Sunday.

It would help if public school facilities are regularly rented out to all comers. If not--more questions are needed.

I know of churches that started in old store fronts or trailers. Why can't these guys take that route?

Definitely ask some polite questions.

[HereSince1628]

2. many school districts rent out their buildings

to various sorts of groups, I am aware of cubs scouts, boy scouts, brownies, girl scouts, craft clubs, family reunions, and churches all having meetings in the local middle school.

I wouldn't worry about a group renting space.

[HereSince1628]

3. I forgot to mention the community theatre uses the space, too. nt

[Singleterri]

4. There's nothing wrong with this

Public schools are public property and can be used by the public (say that three times fast!). Churches meeting in public schools is completely normal and happens all the time. Lots of other non-religious groups meet in public schools as well, all after business hours of course.

About the rent, I'm not sure if organizations are required to pay rent to use public property or not. After all, they are funded by the taxpayers.