IRS Warning - Does it work both ways?

IN THEORY

IRS Warning - Does it work both ways?

Q: The IRS is warning churches and charities to stay clear of political messages when communicationg with congregations, and is stepping up its enforcement efforts. The IRS prohibits religious organizations from intervening directly or indirectly with political campaigns, if those organizations are to receive tax-exempt status. Do you agree with the law? Where do you draw the line between what is a political issue, which a religious organization should speak out on, and where it shouldn't?

A: It's interesting that this topic should come to forum this week, especially considering that right here in Glendale, the Mayor's "Prayer" Breakfast takes place with a keynote by Kenneth Starr. Now here's an interesting partnering of politics and religion.

So, on the one hand, the law mandates that churches should not engage in political campaigns, but on the other hand, political agendas can be hidden beneath the cloak of religiosity? Let's not fool ourselves, there's more to this than taxation. It would be nice if this could be debated objectively, but I doubt it will be any time in the near future.

FATHER VAZKEN MOVSESIAN

Armenian Church

Youth Ministries

Note: This response was submitted but for obvious reasons was was not published.