I thought they were an oppressed minority

Christians that is. And it is Christian clergy for which the tax evasions discussed below were designed. If Hindus, Jews and Muslims benefit from it as well I am sure that that is just a fortunate accident on their part.

I've always known that churches had tax exemptions on income and property in America and I've never really had too of a problem with that. (Although I feel that is should be restricted in some way so that they do not escape taxation on hundreds of millions (probably billions) worth of real estate and art that is not necessary for their "charitable" purpose.

I now learn that the exemptions are extended to clergy as well and are much more extensive than I would have believed in my wildest dreams. To provide tax exemptions to employees of religious institutions, on the basis of their charitable status, and then deny the same benefits to employees of non-religious charities is appalling and discriminatory. There are lots of poorly paid people out there (teachers, nurses, social workers) who perform truly essential tasks and that are just as deserving of these benefits as pastors, priests, rabbis and imams.