Transparência social aplicada aos templos de qualquer culto: instrumento de construção da confiabilidade pública

Abstract

This academic work addressed the problem of reconciling the need to implement governance practices in places of worship, regardless of denomination, with the guarantee of state secularism, which neither favors any specific liturgy nor precludes the existence of others, while imposing legal obligations on religious organizations. The study’s general objective was to demonstrate how governance and transparency in the administration of resources in religious institutions are supported by state secularism and foster public trust in these entities. Specifically, it sought to show how transparency prevents the adoption of illegitimate practices by avoiding the enrichment described in the Civil Code and fraud in the penal sphere, as well as by reaffirming secularism through not favoring any particular temple, thereby highlighting society’s role in the implementation of governance measures by religious segments. The hypothesis maintained that the reconciliation between governmental bodies and religious entities would result in the effective implementation of social and fiscal control mechanisms, ensuring the proper allocation of resources derived from congregational contributions. In conclusion, it was determined that the adequate integration of oversight and transparency practices within religious organizations promoted the regularization of legal obligations, preserved both the freedom of worship and state neutrality, and legitimately secured community approval and trust.