Should the church be taxed?

Question

I say no, and here's why:

If the church was taxed, small community churches would most likely have to close up due to financial hardship.

The mega churches (I call them big-box churches) would spread across the US like walmart did, financed by private institutions and faith based initiative dollars.

What you'd have left is a highly commercial and tightly controlled Fundamentalist Church of the US that would have deep political ties.

Edit: I think I should also state that I am not at all religious. I've always thought that the small community churches were more interested in doing good works in their community, while the big-box churches were more interested in politics. For my way of thinking, keeping the church tax free, keeps them in check.

Answer 1

Well, I'll have to say that what you've mentioned is well thought out and brings to mind certain points that I've never considered. So ... Thanks for that. Sincerely. But, I do disagree, and here is why ... Not taxing religious institutions is not, in my mind, either separation of church and state OR freedom of religion. It forces religion on me because I have to pay their taxes for them via higher taxes that make up for their lack. It is favoritism. It places a greater burden on those of us that DO pay taxes, because we have to make up the difference. I honestly doubt that smaller churches would need to close due to taxes. Property taxes, as an example, aren't that high in rural areas or small communities. Larger churches, and I liked your Wal Mart analogy, would probably be no more involved in politics than they are now. But that's already PLENTY in my book. For what it's worth, I'm not religious. But I do enjoy thought when I perceive that it's honest. Your question and thoughts ... Cool. ;-) ~ Peace & Blessings ~

Answer 2

Yes, religious organizations should be taxed. There would need to be a financial restructuring so that smaller congregations would have their taxes paid by the central parent organizations, but, if the WWF can admit that they are an entertainment enterprise and not a sporting enterprise to avoid higher taxes, then I think the organized religions of this country can raise their voices to their higher ups ( well, maybe not SO high up ! ) about money.

Answer 3

Nope all and diverse isn't taxed for turning out to be a member of or being individuals of a church contained in the U.S... Tithes given to a church is between the fellow and their church of selection the authorities does not become in touch..

Answer 4

The church already has political ties and own land a even supermarkets the are corrupt and should be taxed

Answer 5

Agreed. I am not religious and am utterly disgusted by the amount of money that the big churches bring in, but we shouldn't get in the business of taxing ANY non-profits. It creates tacit governmental approval or disapproval of non-profit causes, depending on who gets taxed and who doesn't. Government must treat all non-profits equally, regardless of their beliefs.

Answer 6

Why shouldn't churches be taxed?

Who cares if small churches have to meet in private homes with unpaid preachers?

Megachurches should be taxed like any other business.

I hate to break it to you, but local preachers spent a majority ot their time telling congregants to vote for GWB & the GOP, and they weren't in "megachurches."

Answer 7

Churches are not profit-seeking institutions, so they should not be taxed. I think charitable foundations and other non-profit organizations have similar tax immunity.

Answer 8

YES! They have stolen from the poor for centuries. Time to take some back.

Answer 9

LMAO!!! And that hasn't happened already????? LMAO!!!!
Buddy I'd tax the SH*T out of churches