POLICY BRIEFINGS
FOR PASTORS AND FAITH LEADERS
designed to equip faith leaders to educate and advocate for faith-based communities.
Download RESOURCE information here:
THIS MONTH'S FOCUS ISSUE:
Civic Engagement Guide for Faith Leaders
The Good News in Bad Times is a bi-weekly policy briefing explicitly crafted for faith leaders on advocacy and ministry's front lines.
This month, we are focused on understanding the legal framework of civic engagement for Faith Leaders. As shepherds of God’s people, we are called to speak truth, defend justice, and guide our congregations through the moral and social issues of our time. In doing so, it is equally important that we understand the legal framework that governs our churches and protects the integrity of our ministries.
One of the most significant areas of awareness for clergy is The Johnson Amendment, a provision within the Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3) that governs the scope of how churches and other tax-exempt organizations can and should legally engage in political activities, especially during this election season.
PAST ISSUES
CALL TO ACTION TOOLS: Sample Letter to Congress
Below is a draft letter you can put on your letterhead. Sending a letter to Congress about issues is public education and advocacy, allowed by IRS laws (Revenue Ruling 2007-41). Please share a copy of your letter with us at info@skinnerleaders.org
Your Full Name]
[Your Title / Church / Organization]
[Your Address]
[Email Address] • [Phone Number]
[Date]
The Honorable [First and Last Name]
[U.S. House of Representatives / U.S. Senate]
[Washington, D.C. 20515 / 20510]
Re: [TOPIC]
Dear [Senator/Representative Last Name],
As a faith leader and your constituent, I urge you to protect the most vulnerable in our communities based on Jesus Christ's teachings, which remind us that we must take care of “the least of these.”
I am deeply concerned about (INSERT YOUR CONCERN HERE). These decisions disproportionately harm Americans of ALL backgrounds, including low-income and aging populations.
Now more than ever, we need moral courage in public policy. As a person of faith, I ask you to lead with justice, mercy, and compassion.
Thank you for your service. I am praying for your leadership.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Church or Organization]