The Supreme Court is hearing a case that could decide if helping the poor counts as a religious act. Wisconsin’s top court ruled Catholic Charities isn’t “religious enough” to qualify for a tax exemption because they serve everyone—not just Catholics—and don’t preach to those they help. This decision forces the charity to pay state unemployment taxes, draining funds meant for the needy.
Catholic leaders argue serving others is central to their faith, quoting Jesus’ command to “love thy neighbor.” The Wisconsin court’s narrow view of religion ignores centuries of Christian teaching that caring for the vulnerable is sacred work. Archbishop Jerome Listecki said, “We serve because Christ told us to—no one should have to pass a religious test to receive help.”
The case highlights government overreach into church affairs. Wisconsin claims feeding the hungry and housing the elderly aren’t “typical” religious activities. But Catholic Charities has done this work for over 100 years, guided by faith, not politics. Critics say the ruling punishes religions that live out their beliefs through action instead of words.
Penny Nance of Concerned Women for America called the decision an attack on religious freedom by “leftist judges.” She warned it sets a dangerous precedent: “If helping the poor isn’t religious, what’s next? Will soup kitchens lose tax status unless they hand out Bibles?” Conservative groups fear this could silence churches nationwide.
Wisconsin’s demand that charities hire only Catholics or proselytize contradicts Christ’s example. The Good Samaritan didn’t ask the wounded man’s beliefs before helping. Forcing religious groups to choose between their mission and state approval undermines America’s founding principles.
The Supreme Court must decide whether the government can redefine what counts as “religious.” A ruling against Catholic Charities would let bureaucrats police faith-based work, favoring groups that prioritize preaching over service. This risks sidelining churches from public life—exactly what the First Amendment forbids.
Catholic Charities’ programs, like housing for disabled veterans or job training for single moms, now hang in the balance. Funds diverted to state taxes could shrink these lifelines. The poor, not the government, will pay the price if the Court sides with Wisconsin.
Religious freedom isn’t just about Sunday worship—it’s about living your faith every day. The Court should protect charities serving communities without government interference. Letting judges decide what’s “religious enough” betrays America’s promise to guard faith from state control.
