Why should churches have tax free status?

Separation of church and state. Taxing churches could be used to try to get rid of churches. Same applies for any house of worship. I doubt this would ever happen but it is possible. Churches are nothing like country clubs. Country clubs are strictly for entertainment where as houses of worship exist so people can express the beliefs they hold most dear to them. Before you shower me with anger and resentment I should at least tell you I am NOT A CHRISTIAN.