GaryP

The Federal Trade Commission has announced the formation of a national "Do Not Call" list for telemarketers. Guess which category may get an exemption.

From American Atheists AANews;


A Religious "Shield"

Government conducts little supervision over solicitations for money by
churches and other religious organizations, including the area of
telemarketing.

Houses of worship once restricted their fund-raising efforts to
literally passing a collection plate during services, or using direct
mail to congregants. That has changed, however, especially with the
rise of so-called "para-church" organizations which are religious in
nature, but operate across traditional denominational lines. As
A.H.Barbee noted in the "Freedom Writer" magazine for May/June 1997,
"Unlike local churches whose spiritual leaders are generalists
(ministers who preach sermons, visit the sick, perform wedding and
conduct funerals), para-church leaders are typically miles removed
from even their most dedicated followers who see them as specialists
in ministry, with near celebrity status." It is para-church outreaches
that seem most aggressive in using media such as television and radio,
direct mail, the internet and telephone solicitation.


You can read more about it at;
http://www.atheists.org/flash.line/faith34.htm

Zimyatin

So what? Churches are considered non-profits just like your local firefighter fundraiser. The purpose of the do-not-call list (which I support) is to stop annoying commerical phone pitches. The American Atheists wouldn't be put on the do-not-call list either. And for the last time I don't need vinyl siding!

Just Another Infidel

Would you be interested in refinancing your mortgage???

dangin

I approve of zealots calling me on the phone. How often does someone come to you and say "abuse me verbally". I look forward to it increasing. It's kind of therapeutic.

Ab_Normal

Yeah, I don't get any calls from Christ-o-bots, it's all vinyl siding and long distance carriers. They're not as fun to pick on.

enigma555

Yeh, I don't think I have even in my life had someone call me trying to pitch me religion, nor do I know anyone who has...

I'm just thankful I don't get strangers in the street coming up and trying to sell me long distance service...