Parish Finance: Best Practices in Church Management

Most Catholic parishes struggle with basic financial issues like budgeting, internal financial controls, and financial planning. Canon law places the responsibility for parish finances squarely on the lap of the pastor; but pastors typically aren t versed in financial matters their gifts reside elsewhere. Lacking training on these important topics, many parishes employ a parish business manager, but their background and competence in addressing these critical issues varies widely. Church leaders at all levels need a single comprehensive source, written in a style that they can understand, to guide them through the steps needed to ensure an effective, as well as an accountable and transparent, financial process.

This book delivers on all of these needs. It promises to be:

· Practical A resource that is solution-oriented. The book not only teaches concepts but provides solutions for parish leaders on the go
· Accessible Clarify key terminology, offer easy-to-use templates and turn complex concepts into action oriented tools.
· Best-in-Class - Include the strongest research that provides the foundation for techniques and tactics that can be used in everyday situations.
· Interactive Use case study and/or reflection questions to engage readers and help readers go from learning to understanding and practicing the concepts.
· Forward-Looking Provide readers meaningful resources for further study including books, websites, and articles.

This book will serve as an indispensable one-stop guide to understanding parish finances.