St. Mark Catholic Church
Political Activities Policy

St. Mark Catholic Church operates as a tax exempt organization under the umbrella of the Diocese of Raleigh and the US Bishops Catholic Conference in the United States. As a result of St. Mark being a tax exempt organization, it is required that it abide by the rules of 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code regarding political activities.

In order to be in compliance with the IRS code, St. Mark is expressly prohibited from the following actions either by the church, on church property or during any church functions:

- Endorsing any candidate
- Donating or contributing to a candidate's campaign
- Participating or engaging in political fundraising events
- Distributing statements for or against a particular candidate
- Engaging in any other activity that may favor or oppose a candidate

These prohibitions apply not only to the pastor and church employees but to any church groups distributing political material on church property as well as any material included in the church bulletin.

It is St. Mark Catholic Church policy that any individual or group wanting to distribute any material on church property or include material in the church bulletin must receive prior approval from the St. Mark Business Manager.

Attachments:
IRS Election Year Activities and the Prohibition on Political Campaign Intervention for 501 (c) (3) Organizations
Publication 1828 - Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organizations