Windsor Baptist Church Policy Regarding Political Literature
Background Information
Recently, our Elder Board was asked to review and evaluate some literature related to the forthcoming elections. Most of our Church members are aware that Churches and other non-profit organizations are strictly prohibited from engaging in political campaigning of any kind. This prohibition stems from the requirements of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Given our qualifications under the provision of this law, it naturally follows that our focus should be dedicated to Christian and academic education from our schools, Biblical teaching and supporting missions and other charitable activities that conform with God’s plan for Windsor Baptist Church.
Specific Prohibitions for Churches
While this list may not be all inclusive, Churches are prohibited from engaging in any of the following activities:
- Cannot endorse or oppose candidates for public office
- Cannot make any communication—either from the pulpit, in a newsletter, or church bulletin—which expressly advocates for the election or defeat of a candidate for public office
- Cannot make expenditures on behalf of a candidate for public office or allow any of their resources to be used indirectly for political purposes (e.g., use their phones for a phone bank)
- Cannot ask a candidate for public office to sign a pledge or other promise to support a particular issue
- Cannot distribute partisan campaign literature
- Cannot display political campaign signs on church property
Windsor Baptist Church Policy on Political Literature
While the Elders affirm the right of expression on political and social issues, Windsor Baptist Church must remain neutral regarding political parties, political platforms, and candidates for political office. The Church does not endorse any political party or candidate. Nor does it advise members how to vote. For these reasons, our policy will be as follows:
- No literature containing political information of any kind is to be distributed inside our building, or on the campus of Windsor Baptist Church.
- Prohibiting the distribution of political literature applies to the Church, as well as the schools.
- This policy prohibiting the distribution of political literature of any kind includes the distribution of voter’s guides or other literature that might normally be considered primarily informative.
- The prohibition of the distribution of Political Literature is effective immediately.
Voting is of critical importance to Christians. What can we do?
Church members of Windsor Baptist Church are also citizens; therefore, they are encouraged to participate in political and governmental affairs, including involvement in the political party of their choice. Members are also urged to be actively engaged in worthy causes to improve their communities and make them wholesome places in which to live and rear families.
In accordance with the laws of our State and Federal governments, members are encouraged to register to vote, to study issues and candidates carefully, and to vote for individuals whom they believe will act with integrity and sound judgment. Additionally, we encourage all of our members to know with clarity where candidates stand with regard to issues that are important from a Biblical perspective.
While we affirm the right of expression on political and social issues, Windsor Baptist Church will remain neutral regarding political parties, political platforms, and candidates for political office. The Church does not and will not endorse any political party or candidate, nor will we advise members how to vote. However, we do strongly recommend that our members as well as all Christians take seriously their right to vote, and do so in a way that is God-honoring.
In Christ’s Service
The Board of Elders
Windsor Baptist Church
Scriptural References:
- Romans 13
- I Peter 2
- I Timothy 2
- Matthew 5:13-16
