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Tax-exempt properties

I am writing in response to the Nov. 22 letter, “Tax-exempt properties.”

The writer used the example the ETHNOS 360 (formerly New tribes) missionary training facility at Larryville.

I grew up on a farm whose property adjoined the New Tribes site. I had the opportunity of meeting some of those who trained there. I found them to be just ordinary people who had left their homes, family, friends, careers, comforts, and conveniences to obey the command of Jesus to “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” (Mark 15:16). He did not specify any particular area or locality in his instructions.

The writer appears to feel that the ETHNOS 360 property should not be tax exempt as it contributes nothing to the local community. He may not be aware that many of those at the Larryville facility are involved with local churches.

There are many churches in Lycoming County, all tax-exempt, that do not spend all of their parishioners contributions locally. Most, if not all of them, sponsor missionaries around the globe. Does this mean that they should lose their tax-exempt status also?

Lastly, do all of us who support foreign missions fall into the category of “Bible thumpers?” If so, thanks for the compliment!

MARY LOU McKEE

Montoursville

Submitted via Virtual Newsroom

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