The Parish Finance Council is an advisory board of parishioners appointed by the pastor to assist him and the parish business manager in the financial oversight of all parish operations and facilities, including St.Mary's school.

Meeting Location:

Parish Center dining room.

Coordinator:

Council chair.

Objective:

To assist the pastor in financial and legal issues relating to parish operations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

1. Evaluate the financial needs of the parish on an on-going basis.
2. Prepare and communicate an annual budget and report.
3. Prepare forecasts on a monthly basis.
4. Assess parish real estate issues from both a financial and legal perspective.
5. Formulate long-range plans, including capital improvements.
6. Provide advice and counsel on operational issues.
7. Approve annual budget submitted by the School Board.
8. Provide recommendations on the treatment and disposition of gifts and bequests.

Qualifications:

1. Financial or legal background.
2. Good understanding of budgeting and business operations.
3. Willingness to develop a solid understanding of the standard Archdiocesan accounting system and apply personal expertise to its application in our parish.
4. Creativity in developing solutions; good decision making skills.
5. Broad range of experience to apply to resolution of issues.

Training:

No formal training at this time. New members are briefed to bring them up to speed on current issue. They are also provided hard-copy documentation

Time of Ministry:

Meetings are held every other month; one meeting of approximately two hours duration. Additional effort is required to prepare budgets, forecasts, and communication; to research accounting or legal issues or to coordinate issues with the Archdiocesan finance office (Chancery).

Length of Commitment:

3 years, with renewal as requested by pastor.