Alcohol Policies
Our Diocesan policy for the responsible use of alcohol can be found here.
Audits
Annual audits are required by the Canons of the Episcopal Church for all parishes, missions and other institutions. The primary purpose of an audit is to ensure that financial statements are fairly stated. The canons permit the auditing of congregational accounts by "an independent Certified Public Accountant”, by “an independent licensed public accountant" or by such committee as shall be authorized by Fiscal Ministries or by the appropriate diocesan authority. While audits by CPAs are preferred, to accommodate parishes with limited income, Committee Audits can be performed using alternative Audit Procedures.”
Diocesan Financials
You can find the 2023 Diocese of Western North Carolina Budget here and the most recent diocesan audit here.
Diocesan Grants & Loans
The Diocese of Western North Carolina is blessed with supplementary financial resources to equip and empower the ministry and mission of our parishes. Visit our Grant & Loan page to find information on specific grants, what they fund, and how to apply. Please know that all grant applications must be sent to the office of the CFO.
Diocesan Pledges
Click here to read the 2023 Pledge Letter from Bishop José. This year, we are accepting pledge submissions online. Click here to submit your 2023 pledge online. If you have any questions, please contact the office of the Chief Financial Officer.
Church Property & Real Estate Transactions
When a church in the Diocese of Western North Carolina wants to sell (alienate), purchase (encumber), alter existing property, secure bank financing for property related transactions (encumber), parish leaders must submit a Property Transaction Form to the bishop’s office to receive the required approval from the Bishop, Standing Committee, Executive Council and Diocesan Trustees. Parish leaders are strongly encouraged to notify the Canon to the Ordinary with any questions and the intention to submit the necessary form. You can download the form here.
Human Resources
Information and guidelines for church personnel management can be found here.
Health Insurance
This page contains important information about our 2023 Health Benefits and Open Enrollment.
Insurance
Property & Casualty – Download the diocesan policy for property and casualty insurance minimums here.
Investments and Gifts
Lay Leader Licensing
Manual of Business Methods in Church Affairs
A comprehensive, user-friendly manual which supports the increasingly complex work of all treasurers and parish administrators. Includes forms, such as the Parochial Report Form, with instructions.
Parochial Report
The Parochial Report, established by the Constitution and Canons of The Episcopal Church, is a tool for the collection of data that is intended to assist the Church in planning for mission. Every church in the Diocese of Western North Carolina must file a Parochial Report. For additional information and instructions, go here.
Sample Policies
Treasurer Tools
Below you can find helpful tools for parish treasurers:
Vestry Leadership
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