When we think of living out stewardship, we consider how we give of our time, talent, and treasure. Here at Immaculate Conception, the eight-member parish Finance Council is focused on the treasure component, which is critical to the life of our parish.
“The Finance Council is a consultative group which provides the pastor with recommendations regarding financial policies and more,” says Janet Kushlan, who oversees the Finance Council and parish finances.
Janet took over the finance work at the parish part-time a little over a year ago when Betsy Preelee retired. She has been a member of the Finance Council since 2020.
“The Finance Council is a diverse group with expertise in all needed fields,” she says. “I enjoy learning from them, and everyone is enjoyable to work with. They bring a lot of passion to the table. They ask challenging questions.”
The Finance Council includes members with current and prior experience in law and financial administration. It is important to manage the finances of a parish of our size, similar to running a business. In their quarterly meetings, the council members review and analyze the fiscal situation of the parish. In turn, they recommend financial plans and policies that support the pastoral priorities of the parish.
One of the current projects for the group is overseeing the remodeling of some of the classrooms in the former school. In the past, they have coordinated the organ and roof projects and much more.
The council members must also be flexible — sometimes, things are more expensive than expected, like utilities this year. So, they must adjust the budgeting accordingly. Members also decide if money should be moved to the parish endowment.
Janet understands the importance of properly and responsibly managing our parish finances.
“It’s the offertory and donations we are taking care of,” she says. “All of that is there to support the people of the parish.”
Janet is also involved in other parish ministries and plays a significant role in the Oktoberfest money room.
“It’s such a fun event,” she says. “It’s fun to work with the volunteers of the parish.”
In turn, Janet offers some simple advice to her fellow parishioners: get involved at Immaculate Conception. By doing so, you will impact our parish and truly be blessed in return.
“It’s so nice to see parishioners giving back,” Janet says. “They use their talents where they feel the strongest, and there is value in that. We have a lot of volunteers who step up.”
For more information about the Finance Council, or to learn how to get involved, contact Janet Kushlan at finance.iccwilloughby@gmail.com.