MGM Resorts will turn ex-Catholic church rectory in Massachusetts into casino parking

A former Catholic church rectory in Springfield, Mass., could become part of a casino parking lot if MGM Resorts International is awarded a gaming license by state gaming authorities.

The Republican in Springfield reported that an entity controlled by MGM Resorts paid $1 million for the land housing the former St. Joseph’s Church rectory. A spokeswoman for MGM Resorts said the land parcel would be used for parking if the company wins the right to build a $700 million to $800 casino complex in the city.

MGM Resorts, Penn National Gaming, the Mohegan Tribal Authority, and Ameristar Casinos are bidding for the lone casino license in Western Massachusetts.

MGM Resorts already has an option to buy much of the land it needs for its development, including the former MassMutual headquarters and an office building that would become the entrance to a 25-floor, 250-room hotel.

As for using a former rectory as part of a casino complex, the communications director for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield was told the newspaper the sale came with a deed restriction prohibiting uses both now and in the future which are contrary to Catholic teachings.

Visiting a casino is not viewed as a sinful action by the church, but bishops have spoken out “on is the possible consequences that can derive from them," the church spokesman said.

However, using the site as a secondary purpose, such as parking, is not viewed as a violation of the deed restriction.