A Call from Special Agent Struzik
When the minister picked up the phone, Special Agent Struzik from the IRS was on the line.
"Hello, is this the minister?"
"Yes, this is he."
"I'm calling to inquire about a member of your congregation, a Dr. Shipe. Do you recognize the name?"
"Yes, I do. He is a member of our congregation. How can I be of service?"
"Well, on last year's tax return, the doctor claimed that he made a sizable tax-deductable contribution to your church. And we are trying to verify this information.
"Well, I'll have to have our bookkeeper check for you. How much did our Dr. Shipe say he contributed?"
"Twenty five thousand dollars," answered Agent Struzik. "Can you tell me if that amount is right?"
{{{{ loud gasp and then a long pause... }}}}
"I'll tell you what," replied the minister.......
. . . . . "Call back tomorrow. I'm sure it will be."
Originally published May 21, 2010.
