How Transparent are the Finances of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

A lot of people are questioning the "transparency" of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. By this, it seems to me, that they mean having reliable information available about anything they want to know, and the main thing they want available is the Church's financial records. The premise seems to be that any information that isn't publicly accessible is "hiding" nefarious activity. They hint that if the "truth" were known, then we would all be shocked. 

Maybe I have too many Halloween thoughts still in my mind, but all this running around yelling for "transparency" feels too much like the hysteria of witch hunts. Actually, it probably does have some of the same motivations -- jealously, fear, and a desire for control and power. 


Why do people think they should have all the Church's financial records spread out before them? Are they so arrogant that they believe that only they can determine how the monies should be spent? Do they mistrust the Church leaders? If they do not believe these leaders are apostles and prophets of God, then why are they still members of the Church? If they are not members, then what difference does it make what some church does with its monies? 

Are their finances "transparent"? I don't know about you, but I have no intention of making all my financial records public. Of course, like the Church, all my financial records are open to IRS scrutiny. 

They question is not whether the Church is 'transparent", but whether the Church should disclose their finances publicly. Is it wise to make the Church's financial details public? What is the reaction of some people when they learn that their family has a lot of money? Does it foster independence and growth, or a sense of entitlement? Would it do anyone any good to know the exact amounts of Church income and expenditures?  No. 

The nosy criticizers must accept reality. They do not have a "right" to all information, and that most things that are "hidden" from them is because it is none of their business.

https://www.lds.org/topics/church-finances-commercial-businesses?lang=eng


https://www.lds.org/ensign/2018/07/the-spiritual-foundations-of-church-financial-self-reliance?lang=eng

photo - https://www.lds.org/media-library/images/tithing-607694?lang=eng