While the holding of this decision may be narrow, its tone is unfortunate and ahistorical, as aptly noted in the dissent. Treating churches in a distinct way has long been part of our religious liberty tradition.
The recent annual gathering of the Baptist World Alliance in Bangkok, Thailand, and the actions they took showed yet again Baptists’ commitment to and concern for religious liberty.
The 2017 Religious Liberty Council Luncheon presented new ways to make an impact for religious liberty every day, and Rabbi David Saperstein gave a passionate reminder of the need in front of a crowd of 600 in Atlanta.
The Baptist tradition of standing up for religious freedom for all is not new. One of the great privileges of my work so far this year has been to tell that story, a reminder to the many who know it and a welcome surprise to the many more who do not.
A troubling section of a government funding bill passed a key committee vote, and it could undermine important protections for houses of worship in the tax code.
Be sure you are getting the latest news and commentary from the Baptist Joint Committee by checking our website, subscribing to our email list and following us on social media.