In these tough economic times, many churches are looking for financial relief and some have decided to help their situation by leasing their lofty spires, steeples or crosses as location sites for cell towers.

An attorney who specializes in the leases said churches can negotiate renting the space for anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 a month and the towers can usually be camouflaged as to not detract from the structure's original appearance.

The attorney warns churches to be extremely careful that the contracts don't make them in anyway liable or add to their maintenance costs.

However, if a good deal can be struck, it can add guaranteed, hassle-free monthly income for decades ahead as cell tower leases are usually long term from 20 to 35 years.