Politically active houses of worship.

[hrmjustin]

Now there are limits by law what houses of worship can do politically when they use the tax exemption laws but still many of them still are politically active.

Many clergy are active both on the left and right, and some think this is ok and others don't think so.

Personally as long as they comply with the relevant laws on tax exempt status I see no issue with clergy and houses of worship being politically active.

My parish has always been active in socisl justice and I don't want it to be silent at all.

I do think there is room in politics for these organizations, but it does mean they have to be able to handle criticism. They should not cry foul when being challenged and can not hide behind any privilege they have.

[cbayer]

1. There is no prohibition about being politically active when it comes to causes.

The prohibition is on supporting candidates.

While this is sometimes a grey area, the IRS has been extremely lax in enforcing this and I think it's good that they have agreed to be more active.

This will effect both conservative and liberal congregations, but it will have more of an impact on the right, imo.

[hrmjustin]

2. my cpncern here is some posters feel that houses of worship should have no say at all in

political discourse.

[cbayer]

3. Yes, but they are way out of line.

Houses of worship work under the same rules as other non-profits. To deny those rights to religious groups just because they are religious would be a first amendment violation, imo.

[hrmjustin]

4. Agreed!

How is the trip going?

[cbayer]

5. My trip is wonderful.

We have spent the first month taking day trips and just loving the whole immersion.

Now comes a month of visitors, which will be completely different, but it will be great to share this with our closest friends.

How is your summer? Hopefully not too hot.

Stay cool, my friend.

[hrmjustin]

6. No need for ac yet here in NY.

Enjoy my friend.