The Parish Finance Council is a consultative body of lay persons established to advise the pastor in matters pertaining to the financial affairs of the parish. The authority of the pastor is not diminished by the establishment of the Parish Finance Council; rather, the council serves as a resource of knowledge and expertise on financial matters, placing these skills at the service of the pastor and the parish.
The Finance Council is directed by the values of the Gospel in fulfilling it's responsibilities, as well as by good business practices. Efficient and effective use and management of parish resources must be measured as much by their contribution to parish mission and ministry as by commonly accepted business standards.
Role of the Finance Council
Canon 352 - In all legal affairs, the pastor acts in the person on the parish in administering the good of the parish.
Canon 357 - Each parish is required to have a Finance Council which is regulated by universal law, as well as by norms issued by the Diocesan Bishop; in this council the Christian faithful, selected according to the same norms, aid the pastor in the administration of parish goods with due regard for the prescription of Canon 532.
This body is advisory in nature or consultative in nature and exists to advise the pastor in financial matters.
Membership
Appointed by the pastor
Functions
Advises the pastor on any major commitment of funds or parish resources for capital improvements, or debt addition in excess of $10,000.00
Advises the pastor in the investment of parish funds and support to the parish school.
Advises the pastor in the preparation, adoption, and execution of the annual budget.