The parish FINANCE COUNCIL is “a consultative body that helps the Pastor to act justly and prudently in the administration of the parish’s temporal goods . . . The ways by which it fulfills its shared responsibility are the spiritual enrichment of the members; formation of financial policies, including devising and regular monitoring of a parish budget, and of policies for the proper maintenance of the buildings and grounds of the parish; long-range financial planning; preparation of an annual financial report; and attention to civil law pertaining to the administration of the temporal goods of the parish” (Bishop John J. Paul, Pastoral Letter On Consultation in the Parish and Deanery, pp. 24-25).
The Finance Council meets approximately six times per year. In order to assist the Finance Council in fulfilling its responsibilities, there are ordinarily three working groups or permanent committees according to the particular needs of the parish: Budget Committee, Building and Grounds Committee, and Cemetery Committee. This list of committees is not exhaustive as other committees may be formed according to the specific needs of the parish.
“Because of the particular qualities required of the members of the Finance Council, the members are to be appointed by the Pastor after a careful inquiry regarding who among the faithful are best qualified for appointment” (p. 23). Members serve a two-year term that can be renewed twice. To be appointed to serve on the Finance Council the person must be a parishioner who: (1) is at least twenty-one years of age; (2) is baptized, confirmed, and registered member of the parish in full communion with the Catholic Church; (3) is willing and able to serve for the appointed term; (4) is a contributing member of the parish in prayer, time, talent and treasure; (5) maintains a public posture not inconsistent with the teachings of the Church; and (6) is “known for their ability and integrity in the administration of temporal goods” (p. 23). In order to serve fruitfully on the Finance Council, the councilor should be wise and prudent – a committed Catholic with the capacity for study, for reflection, and for reaching sound conclusions.