STEWARDSHIP ACADEMY #4

            The Stewardship Academy has been announced, and is being held on Saturdays, April 23^rd, May 21^st, June 18^th and July 16^th. At least the first three will be held via Zoom.

            This week I am introducing the third session, which will be held on June 18^th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Various topics will be covered at this session:

1.    Financial Statements – we will look at the various financial statements that are typically used in churches, learning the basics, how to read them and interpret them. What are the financial statements really telling us. We will also spend time “using” the financial statements that will allow us to do the ministry that we are called to do.

2.    Restricted vs. non-Restricted Assets – There are assets that are given to us by donors, with donor restrictions. There are other assets that have also been restricted but have been restricted by the church, and there are assets that are completely unrestricted. What is your gift acceptance policy and how are we allowed to use these different types of assets?

3.    Audits – Audits increase the financial transparency of the church and is a critical element of financial vitality. They are mandated by The Book of Discipline. They are not a symbol of distrust, but are a mark of responsibility, good stewardship demonstrated for all to see, and is a message to local church donors that you care about their gift. We will look at what is required for an internal church audit by GCFA, and how to approach an audit if you are doing it and also if you are preparing for one.

4.    Narrative Budgets – They are a way of talking about the future needs needed to carry out mission and ministry, and don’t just present a spreadsheet style budget with columns of numbers under different headings, i.e. Property, Personnel, Evangelism, Education. A narrative budget tells a story, which is the congregation’s story of mission and service and how the different components of the budget contribute to that specific community of faith being able to live into its God given vision.

5.    Goals – What are the financial goals of your church? What should be the financial goals? How can you accomplish them?

6.    Financial Analysis – A financial analysis is more than looking at the balance in the checkbook. It also must involve looking at all assets (buildings, land, people, ministries). It involves looking at revenue, expenses, employees, and financial health. Generosity needs to be reviewed, as well as how budgets are done. Discipleship, stewardship, and membership are all important.

            Each week covers many topics. If you are interested in more information or in participating in the Academy, please contact me at susanranous@unyumc.org or (315) 427-3668.