Wasn't that the approved formula for living in the XIVth, XVth, and XVIth centuries all under the auspices of the dominant (only?) Church authority in Europe?
Then somebody named Martin Luther nailed a list of objections on the doors of a church in Germany. One of his specific objections to church policy was the selling of indulgences. The Reformation ensued.
So now we are back to stealing, giving a portion of the proceeds to charity, and obtaining absolution from the public at large? Surely some of these charitable contributions must be flowing into the coffers of some religious charities; but now, maybe instead of absolution, the religious charities offer honor, praise, testimonial dinners, and the like. All IMHO.