Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

As I understand it, and I may well have got the finer details wrong but the definition of a 'religion' is a faith or following which can clearly demonstrate some kind of free benefit to its members. IIRC Scientology fails on that because a financial commitment it required in order to join.

Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

Don't most churches/religions ask for financial contributions from their followers?

Just asking, mind. I was under the impression (but may well be wrong) that many christian churches ask their followers for a percentage of their income?

Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

There's a subtle but very definate difference - the bible says we should give an offering, there is absolutely no requirement for it and no-one will be turned away from a church for not giving an offering.

With Scientology, the financial contribution is mandatory IIRC.

Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

Cheers :)

Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

I think some brances of the faith ask for a cut of income (Opus Dei) but I think the more traditonal ones just ask for a bit now and then with collection trays or fundrasiers for charity/community projects.

Actually Canterbury Cathedral is doing that since they need quite a lot of money to repair the building and shockingly it is not maintained by the government :erm:

http://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/...ing/index.aspx

Be a shame to let such a great building decay regardless of faith.

Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

The vast majority of mainstream churches only ask for a donation. The bible actually says we should offer the first 10% of our harvest, so I'm guessing that means farmers can offer wheat and vegetables :D

Re: Teenager faces prosecution for calling Scientology 'cult'
 

How many churches you know that take part in government espionage.

Operation Snow White