Why should churches be tax exempt?

Question

If so why?

Also:

Hypothetical: If someone were to form a "Church" of Atheism for instance (I don't see how that would work, but stick with me), should it be also be eligible for tax exemption? Why or why not?

Answer 1

God is superior to us. He exempts his people; many reasons.

Answer 2

One reason new countries where needed 400 years ago is that people that did not believe what the ruler of the country wanted were often put to death and they could not even build churches. Or if they did, the ones against them were taxed away from them or destroyed.

With the freedom of religion  and no taxes on the churches, one can worship as they believe; not as someone else wants to force them to.

Answer 3

Anything non-profitable is tax exempt...

Answer 4

Churches aren't exempt because they are non-profit. lol.

If that were the case, there would be no need for a special exemption for religions. The churches would just apply and qualify for exemption based on their status as a "non-profit" or "charitable" organization.

But most churches know full well that if the religious tax exemption were taken away, most of them would not be able to prove that they are non-profit or are charitable.

Religious exemption from taxation is a carry over from old European laws. The idea is that government should not be able to control the livelihood of the church by taxing them.

In our modern society, this notion is outdated. Churches should fall under the same category as any private enterprise. They need to compete for people's support just like everyone else.

25% percent of all land in the US is owned by churches and are, therefore, not taxed. Who's making up for that lack of tax revenue? EVERYONE ELSE.

Answer 5

Hey if scientogolist can get tax exemption dont see why the church of atheism cant get tax exempltion too

Answer 6

becauase churches are the house of god.  

Answer 7

That happened during the war.

There was no income tax at all in this country before then.

When it came to deciding who was exempt, they thought the churches shouldn't have to pay for it.

~just off the top of my head, but maybe you could look it up.

We've managed to wage quite a few wars with tax dollars.

Answer 8

It's non-profit

Answer 9

Why should atheists have to pay taxes for something they don't believe in.

Religion is big business especially in the States.  They should pay tax.

Answer 10

Should not, and that compromise has caused many to give in to 'homosexual' priesthood fearing the government.