Good News Everyone

What exactly do you mean by mainstream? Evangelicals are the largest branch of Christianity in America. Hell white evangelicals alone are 13 percent of all Americans which is tied for the largest group of all.

https://www.prri.org/research/2020-census-of-american-religion/

You'll be furious to know that the workers are almost entirely volunteers as well. The cost to the church directly is negligible. And I'm still sure whatever other charitable work they do would not be significantly impacted by paying taxes. If anything, the money generated could do infinitely more good in expanding welfare programs. Charity is a band aid, not a solution.

Yes. I'm not sure why you seem confused. The premise is churches should pay taxes. I'm not sure what you don't understand about that. They should pay taxes. They are influencing people's opinions on our politics and policies. They should pay taxes. They are influencing people in their weakest moments. They should pay taxes. Do you understand that I believe any religious institution should pay taxes? I hope you aren't confused still.

I'm pretty sure that Jesus guy that christianity is so famous for was doing it all for free.

Sure, not enough money at all /s

There are plenty of tax-exempt charities. And they file paperwork and meet several conditions. Churches don't.

If churches want to be tax-exempt, they should meet the same criteria as the other charities.

Paying taxes immediately benefits everyone in the community. Helps pay for schools, roads, police and fire, etc. Do you not know how taxes work? There's also the added benefit of not being proselytized at.

Probably my culture, but I have no faith in charities. You know why? Because I haven't given a single euro to charity in my entire fucking life.

"The effectiveness of charities in the USA and tax and transfer systems in the EU in combating poverty can be evaluated through different lenses:

1. Charities in the USA:

   • Charities in the USA often focus on direct interventions and community-based solutions. Organizations like GiveWell evaluate charities based on their cost-effectiveness and impact, ensuring that donations achieve the greatest good per dollar .
   • American charities often operate with transparency and target specific issues such as health, education, and direct cash transfers to those in need .

2. Tax and Transfer Systems in the EU:

   • The EU's tax and transfer systems are designed to reduce poverty through redistributive policies. These systems aim to correct market incomes through taxes and social transfers, which can significantly reduce poverty rates .
   • The EU's approach often involves comprehensive social welfare programs that provide a safety net for citizens, although the effectiveness can vary across member states .

3. Comparison of Effectiveness:

   • Studies suggest that while the USA has a strong culture of charitable giving, the EU's tax and transfer systems may be more effective in providing a broad safety net that reduces overall poverty levels .
   • The EU's systems are more integrated into the fabric of society, offering universal benefits that can reach a wider population, whereas US charities often target specific groups or issues .

Both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses, and their effectiveness can depend on various factors, including economic conditions, political climate, and social norms."