church logo

Saint John the Baptist Catholic Parish Pastoral Finance Council

According to The Code of Canon Law (Canon 537), each parish must have a Finance Council to help the parish priest in managing the parish's resources. This council is guided by both universal law and the norms set by the diocesan Bishop.

The Role of the Pastoral Finance Council

The Finance Council is a consultative body that offers guidance to the pastor on the responsible use of the parish's financial resources. It serves the goals and priorities established by the Pastoral Council. The council assists the pastor by:

  • Developing long-term financial plans for operational and capital needs, including a three-year fiscal plan.
  • Establishing an annual budget process that involves the participation of those responsible for parish programs and addresses the parish's priorities and goals.
  • Analyzing and reporting on the parish's current financial status.
  • Providing periodic (at least annually) reports on the parish's financial position.

In addition to these responsibilities, the Finance Council reviews all parish expenditures. The council's primary focus is fiscal stewardship, and it is not their role to recommend programs or priorities outside of this area.