CHURCH FINANCES WORKSHOP May 2, 2015 Kent First Christian Church

GOALS Discussion of stewardship as a spiritual practice Greater understanding on the part of local church leaders, including clergy, about church finances, operations, and best practices Practical help for local church treasurers and financial secretaries

GOALS Opportunities for networking and discussions on common problems and (hopefully) solutions Greater understanding on the part of the region in terms of what congregations are doing in regard to finances, and challenges that they face Discussion of ways we in the region can resource each other in regard to financial matters

PRESENTERS Sandy Messick, Regional Minister and President Dick Talley, Regional Treasurer and long-time Disciples pastor Jennifer Prekeges, Moderator of the Regional Mission Council

CAVEAT We are not professional legal or accounting people We cannot address matters of law We will share with you what we know, and what we understand to be good practice, but we will not be able to answer all of your technical questions We suggest you refer these questions to an accountant or lawyer

COMMITTEES Our presentations today will deal with the work of what could be three committees: The Stewardship committee teaches the congregation about stewardship and runs the annual campaign The Finance committee deals with the day-in, day-out work of church finances – paying the bills, generating the reports The Legacy committee oversees long-term assets and educates the congregation about annuities, estate planning, etc.

SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY Welcome and Opening Worship Northwest Region 101 Stewardship as an Expression of Spirituality and Ministry Financial Good Practices Lunch Congregation as Employer Building for the Future Closing Worship and Communion