OVERVIEW Churches differ on opinions about whether they should be politically involved. The IRS, on the other hand, is clear on its stance: churches need to stay out of the political ring or risk losing their tax-exempt status. This download provides the tax and legal guidelines faith-based organizations need to know before jumping into the political fray. You may be called as a faith community to fight against a specific issue. There's no law against this. But use caution that your efforts don’t cross the line into lobbying for specific litigation or intervening on behalf of a particular candidate's campaign. Doing so could jeopardize the 501(c)(3) status of your church. TABLE OF CONTENTS OVERVIEW Becoming a Politically Active Church What ministries can and can't do during campain season. By Marian V. Liataud ASSESSMENT It's Not About Being Liberal or Conservative What could it cost your church for participating in political activity? By Richard Hammar HOW TO The IRS and Pulpit Politics Campaigning can endanger your tax-exempt status. By John R. Throop HOW TO Legally Conduct Voter Education Activities Avoid political campaign intervention. By Richard Hammar HOW TO Support Issues, Not Candidates How to maintain the distinction between political advocacy and campaign intervention. By Richard Hammar FOR THE PASTOR Taking Politics Out of the Sanctuary The church's energy should be spent in redeeming the lost, not in rallying against them. By The Christianity Today Editors THE LEGAL SIDE When a Politician Comes to Church Inviting a candidate to speak at church on a non-political topic. by Richard Hammar LEADER’S GUIDE Resource Center Quick tips and recommended resources. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Type: Download Pages: 22 Copyright: 2008 RELATED PRODUCTS Church Political Involvement Safe Ways to Handle Your Church's Money Pastor, Church & Law |
