Parish Administrator/Secretary
“The management of resources with the local church is rapidly becoming one of the more significant challenges facing church leaders today. Operating churches in an organized, efficient, and effective manner isn’t nearly as simple as it once was. That is because of the growing public awareness, increased government scrutiny, and the recognition on the part of church leasers in general that improvements in managing church finances (matters) must be made.
"The basic mission of the church today has not changed from that of the first-century body of believers – it is to evangelize, equip, and care for the flock. A major difference, however, is the type – and use – of the physical resources placed at our disposal to accomplish that task.
"The operation of a church is, in many respects, quite similar to that of a business. Even thought the local church is not in business to make a profit, it is still a business – the Lord’s business. Therefore, to have the respect of the community in which it serves, and thus an effective testimony, it is essential that churches use good business methods. The apostle Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 14:40 “ All things must be done properly and in an orderly manner,” certainly applies to the temporal aspects of a church as well as to its worship procedures” (David R. Pollock, Business Management in the Local Church).
In order to facilitate the orderly running of our congregations, the Mercer School of Theology is offering a Certificate in Parish Administration. The PARISH ADMINISTRATOR/SECRETARY is an integral part to any parish ministry team. The course of study will help the individual gain or enrich the skills needed to serve the church by providing a solid underlying infrastructure in its business aspects. Though the Church is not a business it still must be run in a business-like manner, and there are inherent responsibilities that must be addressed regarding these administrative aspects – legal and financial compliance, internal controls, office and facility management, stewardship, planning, human resources, to name but a few.
This program is open to any one who is serving in a congregation in any denomination. The program will be adjusted for those applicants not of the Episcopal religious tradition. The course work for this two-year certification program will focus on the following areas: The Theology and Ministry of Church Administration; Denominational Polity and Church Structure; The Theology and Spiritual Discipline of Stewardship; Management Skills (financial, accounting, property, personnel, information/technology; and office); Church related Legal and Tax Matters; Disaster Planning and Strategies; Development of a Personal Spiritual Rule of Life, and Safe-Church Issues. These courses may be offered in one-day workshop format as well as in a course of study covering several weeks format.
Please note that all these courses are open to any one who wishes to attend as a means of personal education and continuing education in Church Administration without having to enroll for the Certificate program.