Question about religious descrimination for non-profits in Massachusetts

[Lucy Schroth]

My husband and I are setting up a 501(C)(3) organization (already incorporated in Massachusetts) and are making up By Laws, so we can file our request for a Solicitation Certificate. We are setting ourselves up as a Public Charity. Although the organization's main purpose is not religious, it is founded on Christian principles and words to that effect are listed clearly in our statement of purpose. So far, we are the only officers, but we expect to have a board of directors, eventually. I am concerned about the wording of our By Laws. Can we have a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification that requires adherence to certain Christian principles? Can we make a visible Statement of Faith without being accused of discrimination? We will have volunteers, official members, and (eventually) employees and a full board of directors. I searched the Massachusetts Law Library files, but could not find a good reference.
Thank you.
Lucy S.


      
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