But the widespread misrepresentation of the AmeriCorps expansion among Christians and conservatives is one of them. Here's an excellent FAQ that sets the record straight. No, public service is not mandatory. No, it is not re-education. No, it does not mean people are being paid to "volunteer." Unpaid volunteers could never accomplish what AmeriCorps interns do - national service is a full time job. And, finally, AmeriCorps interns aren't restricted from attending church. In fact, as my organization proves, you can serve your country at a faith-based program, as long as you don't participate in sectarian activity on the government's dime. I've gotten used to conservatives opposing government entitlement programs. I've certainly criticized welfare myself. But to go beyond that to criticize the very concept of public service - it starts to make me wonder whether they have any concern for the poor at all....