Amy Grant Secures Legal Victory Over Historic Church Founded by Her Great-Grandfather

Renowned Christian music artist Amy Grant has successfully regained legal control of the Nashville Church of Christ, a historic congregation originally founded by her great-grandfather, Andrew Mizell "A.M." Burton, in 1925.

The resolution follows a multi-year legal dispute regarding the church's ownership and use. In 2018, the church was taken over by businessman Shawn Mathis, who rebranded the congregation and transitioned it to an online ministry, ceasing regular in-person services. Grant, along with other descendants of the Burton family, challenged this move, citing the original 1925 deed, which mandates the property be used exclusively for worship or revert to the Burton estate.

A Tennessee court upheld the Burton family's claim, ruling that the church's shift in operations violated the terms of the deed. As part of the settlement, the church property, valued at approximately $11 million, will be sold, with 80% of the proceeds allocated to the Burton estate and 20% to Mathis's organization. The agreement also outlines the division of outstanding back taxes on the property.

Grant has expressed her vision to repurpose the historic site in a way that honors her great-grandfather's philanthropic legacy, including potential initiatives to serve the homeless and vulnerable in the Nashville community.

"I am deeply grateful that the court recognized the intent of my great-grandfather's vision," said Amy Grant. "Our family looks forward to preserving this historic space and continuing his mission of faith and service."

Shawn Mathis has stated that he plans to continue his global ministry efforts and denies any wrongdoing.

 

 

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