%1

More clergy dollars going to Democrats: Obama the top recipient

Clergy and staffers of religious organizations are giving more to Democratic campaigns this year, marking a shift from four years ago when Republicans had the advantage.

Contributions to candidates, parties and committees from clergy and other individuals professionally affiliated with religious groups totaled $655,250 in the period surveyed, reports the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonpartisan group that tracks campaign donations.

Lutherans issue voter guidelines for churches: Seven social justice issues

The nation’s largest Lutheran denomination has issued election-year guidelines for congregations and outlined seven issues, from hunger to health care, that reflect the church’s emphasis on social justice.

The guide, “Called to Be a Public Church,” from the 5-million-member Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, suggests ways for churches to participate in the political process without endangering their tax-exempt status.