Senator looks into ministries' millions
By Michelle Singletary
The Washington Post
November 27, 2007
WASHINGTON -- Is it OK for a minister to live large?
An inquiry by Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, the ranking Republican on the Finance Committee, will call into question whether it's appropriate for some leaders of multimillion-dollar ministries to live in majestic homes, drive luxury cars and earn CEO-like salaries.
Grassley asked six high-profile ministries to detail their expenses, compensation and perks. He said that he was undertaking the investigation to determine whether any donations were misused.
"The allegations involve governing boards that aren't independent and allow generous salaries and housing allowances and amenities such as private jets and Rolls-Royces," Grassley said in launching the inquiry. "I don't want to conclude that there's a problem, but I have an obligation to donors and the taxpayers to find out more."
In letters to the six nationally known ministries, Grassley demanded reams of documentation to back up ministry activities and the use of tax-exempt monies. Letters were sent to:
Randy and Paula White of Without Walls International Church in Tampa, Fla. Among other things, Grassley demanded that the Whites explain why the church allegedly bought a Bentley convertible for Bishop T.D. Jakes, who runs the Potter's House in Dallas.
Benny Hinn of World Healing Center Church Inc. in Grapevine, Texas. Hinn has been asked for details of his personal use of assets owned by the tax-exempt organization.
David and Joyce Meyer of Joyce Meyer Ministries of Fenton, Mo. They were asked to explain why the ministry spent $23,000 on a toilet with a marble top, $30,000 for a conference table and $11,219 to purchase a French clock.
Kenneth and Gloria Copeland of Kenneth Copeland Ministries of Newark, Texas. They were questioned about their travel expenditures.
Bishop Eddie L. Long of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church of Lithonia, Ga. Long has been asked to detail "love offerings" from members.
Creflo and Taffi Dollar of World Changers Church International of College Park, Ga. The Dollars were asked to list all vehicle purchases. In a television interview, Creflo Dollar indignantly disputed claims that he owns two Rolls-Royces.
"First of all, we don't have two Rolls-Royces," he said. "And secondly, the one Rolls-Royce that was purchased was purchased by the donors."
In statements, the ministers said they comply with the laws that govern church and nonprofit organizations. Most said they would have their legal counsel review the requests from Grassley.
There's nothing sinful about ministers being compensated on par with chief executives who oversee for-profit operations with just as much revenue. As long as the ministers serve as examples of good stewardship and live within or below their means -- even if those means afford them a mega lifestyle -- it's none of our business what they purchase with their own earnings.
However, it certainly is our business if they are abusing their positions of power and misusing tax-exempt donor money. If the ministries involved in this investigation have been operating above board and all donations have been properly handled, the leaders ought to welcome the scrutiny.
While Michelle Singletary welcomes comments, she cannot offer personal financial advice. Write her at The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071.
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