Religion Roundup
Christian Leaders Question Senate Probe of Televangelists
Associated Press
May 8, 2008
CAPITOL HILL - Nearly two-dozen Christian leaders have signed a letter to the Senate Finance Committee questioning its probe into alleged lavish spending and lax oversight at six large ministries.
The ministries -- led by Kenneth Copeland, Creflo Dollar, Benny Hinn, Eddie Long, Joyce Meyer and Paula and Randy White -- have denied wrongdoing. Some have cooperated; others have refused.
The letter argues that the probe sets a dangerous precedent and falls short of the high bar the Internal Revenue Service has for justifying a church investigation. It also suggests that the ministries were targeted for their evangelical theology and conservative social positions.
A committee spokeswoman responds that the probe is about tax-exempt laws -- not church doctrine.
The letter's signers include American Family Association chairman Don Wildmon, Gary Cass of the Christian Anti-Defamation Commission and the Reverend Rob Schenck of the National Clergy Council.
Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.
