TV Evangelist Complies With Senate Probe

The Associated Press:
A senator's investigation into spending and oversight at six "prosperity gospel" ministries has hit a roadblock with a minister intensifying his efforts to fight the inquiry, but made progress when another turned over documents. Flamboyant Texas-based faith healer Benny Hinn had turned over material to the Senate Finance Committee in response to a letter of inquiry from Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, in early November, an aide to the senator said. Meanwhile, another target of Grassley's investigation, Kenneth Copeland, sent a letter to supporters this month accusing Grassley of targeting the six ministries because of theological disagreements. Grassley denies the charge.

Related:
Grassley Goes After 'Christian Ministries'
The Associated Press:
ANKENY, Iowa -- He's been in Washington for more than 30 years, but U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley describes himself as a farmer. And like many Midwest farmers, the Iowa Republican has an innate suspicion of lavish living. It's a trait that has led him into high-profile fights against the Smithsonian Institution and the Pentagon. Most recently, he's focused on free-spending TV evangelists and universities with billion-dollar endowments. Grassley said he doesn't want to pick fights, but when organizations seek tax-exempt status, they've got to play by certain rules.

Posted by Editor at February 28, 2008 01:23 AM