Parish Finances

I am gathering some information for our Finance Council which meets next week.  Our meetings are not long because of the great financial shape we are in.  Money comes in, money goes out and for the last eight years a healthy amount of money stays with us.   A financial report is given to the parishioners each year.  It is an honest presentation of the past years revenue and expense.  I am so grateful for the generosity of our parishioners. Unlike some pastors, I do not worry if I can pay the bills.  And some pastors can't pay the bills to the diocese which are considerable.  For example, here at CTK, health insurance exceeds $100,000 a year and property insurance is in excess of $62,000.  The Diocese of Fall River is one of the last dioceses, if not the last, not to tax the parishes for the expense of the central administration.  That is amazing.  But there are rumors that a tax is being considered.  I will argue that if a tax is imposed, the diocese must be transparent concerning the financial health of the diocese.  At this momenet we do not have a clue about assets or debits.  To an extent, that is okay if you can pay your bills but if you need the financial support of parishes, the parishes need to be told the real state of affairs. At least that is my opinion.

Monsignor Hoye