Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., convened a day-long meeting Oct. 24 of all pastors and administrators of the Diocese in order to provide them with an in-depth analysis and presentation of the finances of the Diocese.

“It is very important,” the Bishop explained, “that those responsible for the financial oversight of our parishes also understand how the Diocese stewards and administers its resources and goods, especially in those areas where those financial resources intersect.”

Kevin Cimei, chief diocesan financial officer, and Joseph Bianchi, chief diocesan administrative officer, along with Joseph Cahill, diocesan director of risk management, provided the pastors with substantial information to help clarify the ways in which the Diocese funds its operations and activities, and the controls that are in place to ensure proper financial management. The Diocese undergoes an annual financial audit by an outside firm, the results of which are presented to and analyzed by the Diocesan Financial Council – a commission composed of members of the laity with expertise in financial matters. 

Following the presentations, the pastors were given the opportunity to ask questions and discuss any issues they may be facing in the administration of the Diocese’s 99 parishes.

Mrs. Terry Ginther, diocesan chancellor and executive director for pastoral life and mission, concluded the day with an overview of the planning process “Faith In Our Future” and moving forward with incorporating the “cohorts” into diocesan structures.