Serf land, owned by churches, was used to maintain the church and generate income. The concept is ancient, but the term dates back to the 1300s. Serf land was historically owned by priests and used as an incentive for settlement. Churches had to support themselves on serf income, but over time, they were allowed to keep more tithing revenue. Some parishes have sold serf land due to lack of funds. Old church housing is often desirable.
A serf is a tract of land that belongs to a church. It is used to maintain the church and its staff, and also sometimes to generate funds that can be sent to church headquarters. Glebes have substantially shrunk from their historic origins, which is why numerous developments and properties around the world include the word in their titles, referencing their origins.
The concept of serf land is quite ancient, although the term itself only dates back to the early 1300s. Most religions have recognized that land is necessary for the church itself, along with associated structures such as staff quarters and space for church charities, such as orphanages. In addition to these lands, many churches historically also owned farms, factories, and other land that could be used to generate income for the church. In feudal times, the church could use these lands to wield immense power, and often came into conflict with wealthy lords and landowners who resented the amount of land controlled by the church.
Historically, ownership of serf land was entrusted to the incumbent who held the position of priest, minister or parish priest. The land could be rented and used as he saw fit, and when he retired, died, or left the parish, the serf passed into the hands of his successor. It was sometimes used as an incentive to encourage priests to settle, as in the American colonies, when people who were willing to serve in rural areas would be rewarded with substantial serf lands.
Originally, churches had to support themselves entirely on serf income, sending the income from the tithe to the mother church. Over time, the system began to change, and as the serfs dwindled, churches were allowed to retain more of the tithing revenue. Ownership of the land also passed into church control in many cases, rather than being vested in the incumbent, to promote management that would benefit the church as a whole.
Some parishes have been forced to sell chunks of their serf land due to lack of funds and the changing nature of religious faith. Land with residences is sometimes in high demand, especially if the residences are old, as some people find old Church housing aesthetically or personally desirable. Old rectory, rectory, etc. are also often found near the church and cemetery, creating a relatively calm and peaceful environment that many people appreciate.
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