Question:
Is it permitted to benefit from shade of a church?
Answer:
Hello,
In general, we should not benefit at all from avoda zara, which includes Chistianity. Regarding sitting in the shade of a church, we may not sit inside it, nor benefit from its shade within a distance of 4 amos (6-8 ft.) from its door. Regarding benefitting from the shade of its side and back walls, there is controversy about it, and it is preferred not to if possible.
Sources:
שולחן ערוך יורה דעה הלכות עבודת כוכבים סימן קמב סעיף י' "צל בית עבודת כוכבים תוכו ונגד פתחו, תוך ארבע אמות אסור. צל שלאחריו, מותר ... ויש אוסרים בכל גוונא (רמזים)"..
