Editorial: Keep politics out of the pulpit

It has become an annual warning, or at least a bi-annual warning, from the General Counsel of the United Methodist Council on Finance and Administration to restrain ourselves in endorsing political candidates from our pulpits. “Churches should take stands on appropriate issues, but it cannot be a substantial part of their ministry," Jim Allen told Linda Green, in a recent United Methodist News Service article.

Every election year, blatant abuses of that admonition continue from “left, right, and middle.” Candidates from all political parties often are seen in pulpits or at church functions delivering their messages or seeking endorsements.

Numerous complaints of inappropriate political involvement by churches and other non-profits brought warnings in 2005 from the Internal Revenue Service that political campaign activism could endanger church tax-exempt status. Recently the IRS unveiled its Political Activity Compliance Initiative to expedite investigation of claims of improper campaigning in churches. Investigations have become more frequent. A 2006 IRS guide defines the role that churches, hospitals, universities and other entities can play in political matters. The guide also makes clear that, under 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, violating prohibitions "may result in denial or revocation of tax-exempt status and the imposition of certain excise taxes."

The rules are fair. The church has asked for, and been granted, preferred status as it relates to a variety of taxes – local, state, and federal. The separation of church and state cuts both ways, however, and it will behoove us to keep our activity above board no matter how impassioned we may be about any issue.

It might also be said that a certain responsibility for inappropriate advantage taken of church and non-profit platforms, be born by persons running for public office. Politicians are in a position to know that such activity is illegal. It is a matter of impropriety and should be a blemish on the record of any candidate who requests an appearance at any church service or event.