Is there a formal movement to push taxation of churches?

[Skidmore]

I propose that we do so. If people what a theocracy, perhaps they should get the message that there is a user tax for having one. I guarantee you, the political churches would empty because greed is their only message now.

[appleannie1]

1. Since so many churches preach politics now, they really should not be tax exempt. Plus

in today's world, churches are 'for profit' organizations instead of charitable organizations so there is no reason at all to be tax exempt.

[mzteris]

2. You only have one phrase wrong

"political churches" - make that "churches". (Not ALL of course, some really believe, but all of those "ministries" out there - especially the televangelist ones - they're only in it for ONE THING . . . $$$$$$$$$$$$$.

[Skidmore]

4. When churches specifically and overtly espouse policy and promote political initiatives and other

churches sit in silence it implies assent to me. Those in the forefront of the politicization of religion could care a tinker's damn whether anyone agrees with their theology, even members of other denominations. How is forcing your beliefs on others via the law any different than any other theocratic state in the world? I will not live in a theocracy. There are a myriad of other belief systems beyond fundamentalist Christianity in this nation. I will not exclude their participation or protection under the law and I will not be excluded because I refuse to practice any.

[mzteris]

9. um - I was agreeing with you . .

just expanding the criteria to strip churches - ALL churches - tax exemptions.

[leftyohiolib]

3. i heard norman goldman say that there are churches taping their politial sermons and

sending the tape to the irs daring the irs to do something about it.

[Skidmore]

6. So they can claim victimhood and persecution?

[patrice]

5. I think research on their business patterns, co-relations, would be interesting.

Look at who is doing business with whom, hiring whom, firing whom.

Look at their national level organizations; ALL of them offer NETWORKING development services.

[nc4bo]

7. Pay to play.

Not all churches but those who wish to be involved in any form of politics should be taxed.

Stop hiding behind that damn Xian cross!

[SoutherDem]

8. Being that many churches are now political and for profit

I say tax away.

That said, I think there should be a test, which if they pass, prove they do not have a political agenda but are teaching their religion AND are not hoarding donations but are using them for running the church and helping the poor, then allow them to remain tax exempt. But, if they are political, or are just banking the money tax then like any other business.