CIF welcome Render Unto Caesar - with reservations

Catholics in Fundraising welcome the publication of Render Unto Caesar by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, a timely reflection on taxation through the lens of Catholic Social Teaching. The document's emphasis on human dignity, solidarity, and the common good is both necessary and commendable.

However, as Catholic fundraisers and stewards of charitable mission, it would have been helpful to note concern around some aspects of fiscal policy and indeed a consideration of taxation that considers philanthropy and investment more closely than the document does.

The reduction of the Listed Places of Worship VAT relief scheme has placed additional financial strain on parishes and religious communities. These sacred spaces are not only centres of worship but also hubs of community service and heritage. The absence of commentary on this issue overlooks the intersection of faith, culture, and public benefit. State taxation and relief to support heritage, Catholic and other is a necessary consideration.

Recent increases in UK taxation-particularly those affecting higher earners and capital-risk driving away not only tax revenue but also significant philanthropic capital. As highlighted at the recent Catholics in Fundraising (CiF) 2025 conference, many donors are deeply motivated by faith and a desire to invest in the common good. A financial ethics that fails to consider the behavioural impact of tax policy on giving is incomplete.

A key insight from the CiF 2025 conference was the role of investment aligned with Catholic values. Speakers and conference conversations emphasised how ethical investment can be a force for good, supporting endowments, enabling long-term planning, and advancing social justice. Aligning tax and investment considerations is better than considering tax alone.

This is a helpful document at a time of much debate on taxation in the UK and beyond. Catholic Social Teaching has much to offer and this document is helpful. However Catholics in Fundraising believe and counsel that taxation cannot be helpfully considered aside from investment and philanthropy considerations. Those stewarding wealth consider them as a whole, a more joined up approach would be fruitful for the better application of wealth for the good of society.

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Catholics in Fundraising is the UK's leading network for Catholics working in fundraising. It aims to build a strong community of like-minded individuals, offer insights into best practices, and encourage innovative approaches to fundraising within the Catholic context.