Assemblies Of God Backs Tax On Churches

The Leadership of the Assemblies of God Church has said it backs the suggestions that churches in the country should be taxed.

The debate about whether churches should pay taxes has been reignited in recent times following activities of some pastors who in most instances portray aspects of their service which are considered as profitable business ventures.

Speaking at the church's 29^thBiennial General Assembly meeting in Kumasi, Reverend Professor Manso, General Superintendent of the Church said the church believes in the development of the country and that imposing taxes on it to ensure development is welcoming.

“We want the country to develop and your Excellency for Assemblies of God all our pastors pay tax on our income. Our pastors that are engaged in businesses like schools, hospitals, transport and everything we pay our tax, so there is nothing new that is coming, we are not scared,” he said.

President Akufo-Addo has said that the recent activities of churches in the country could result in taxation of the Church.

He said the Church, which was known for its charity and projects in education, health, and other social interventions is shifting into the sphere of prosperity.

Speaking at the 2018 Synod of the Global Evangelical Church in Accra, Akufo-Addo said the path of modern Christianity appears to justify calls for the Church to be taxed.

The immediate past President of the Catholic Bishops Conference , Rev Joseph Osei Bonsu has also backed the Ghana Revenue Authority's (GRA) decision to tax the business activities of churches.

The GRA has indicated that plans are advanced to tax the business activities of churches in the country.

Commissioner of the Authority, Kofi Nti, said the plan is to block revenue losses.

According to him, tithes and offerings will not fall under the category being considered.