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Churches and clergy

Churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship—and their clergy and spiritual leaders—play an important role in the lives of many people. And sometimes our relationships with these institutions and people intersect with the law.

In Missouri, as in other states, churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship, along with their clergy and spiritual leaders, are subject to certain legal regulations while also enjoying specific protections. Missouri law recognizes the significance of religious freedom and provides for the separation of church and state. Clergy and spiritual leaders are generally protected from being compelled to disclose confidential communications made to them in their professional capacity, akin to attorney-client privilege. However, they are mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect under Missouri law. Religious institutions must comply with zoning laws, but they are often given certain accommodations under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), a federal law that protects religious institutions from burdensome zoning regulations. Additionally, while religious organizations are generally exempt from federal income tax under the Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3), they must adhere to other state and federal laws regarding employment, public accommodations, and safety regulations.

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Churches and clergy

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Missouri State Code

Missouri State Code

Churches and clergy

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