GUIDELINES FOR PROMOTING THE USE OF GOOD GOVERNANCE BY THE TEMPLE CARATAKERS OF HUAI SOM SUBDISTRICT, PHU KRADUENG DISTRICT, LOEI PROVINCE

Abstract

The objectives of this research are: 1) To study the knowledge and roles of temple caretakers in Buddhist affairs, 2) To examine the conditions and challenges in the duties of the temple caretakers in Huai Som Subdistrict, Phu Kradueng District, Loei Province, and 3) To propose guidelines for promoting the use of good governance principles by the temple caretakers in Huai Som Subdistrict, Phu Kradueng District, Loei Province. This qualitative research involved three groups of key informants, totaling 18 individuals: 1) Eight temple caretakers, 2) Seven abbots, and 3) Three community leaders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using descriptive content analysis.The research findings show that temple caretakers are laypersons appointed with the authority to manage the temple's assets, including accounting duties, as defined by the Sangha Act of B.E. 2505 (1962) and its amendments, including the Sangha Act (No. 2) of B.E. 2535 (1992) and the Sangha Act (No. 4) of B.E. 2561 (2018), as well as the Maha Thera Samakhom Regulation No. 18 (B.E. 2536) on the appointment and removal of temple caretakers and the Ministry Regulation No. 2 (B.E. 2511), issued under the Sangha Act of B.E. 2505. Challenges found in the research area include: Most temple caretakers lack an understanding of Buddhist affairs and their legal roles. Many are not skilled in accounting. Larger temples may have multiple caretakers who rarely interact with one another. Most caretakers are elderly, and some face health issues. Temple caretakers often lack technological skills. In some cases, abbots appoint close associates as caretakers, which increases the risk of misappropriation of temple assets. The cooperation between the community and the temple largely depends on the faith in the abbot. However, temple caretakers are often proficient in conducting religious ceremonies. The guidelines for promoting the use of good governance principles by the temple caretakers of Huai Som Subdistrict, Phu Kradueng District, Loei Province, suggest that temple caretakers should possess the following qualifications: 1) Management skills, 2) Broad knowledge, vision, honesty, humility, and a spirit of volunteerism, and 3) Strong coordination abilities, involvement, and networking. Among these qualities, honesty is paramount because caretakers are responsible for accounting and managing the temple's assets and interests. The application of good governance principles in their work includes: 1) The principle of the rule of law, 2) The principle of morality, 3) The principle of transparency, 4) The principle of participation, 5) The principle of accountability, and 6) The principle of efficiency. These principles will help create exemplary temple caretakers who are aware of their appointed duties and can effectively support Buddhist affairs.