Financial Integrity & Transparency
Summary: This document on financial and personal integrity was approved by the 2002 Annual Council. Administrators or treasurers in the Church are asked to read and sign this statement as an affirmation of his or her personal commitment to financial integrity and transparency.
The role of leadership is critical for developing the confidence of church members in their Church and in strengthening their relationship with God. It is the responsibility of Church leadership to be transparent and credible in all its dealings.
The Apostle Paul provides a biblical example of this type of leadership: ?And we are sending along with him the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the gospel. What is more, he was chosen by the churches to accompany us as we carry the offering, which we administer in order to honor the Lord himself and to show our eagerness to help. We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.?—2 Cor 8:18-21, NIV
Ellen G. White states, in the context of dealing with tithe and the financial side of church leadership, that ?Those in responsible places are to act in such a way that the people will have firm confidence in them. These men should not be afraid to open to the light of day everything in the management of the work.?—MR Vol 13, 198
Church leadership considers itself accountable to God, His Church and to the Church’s published policies in the use of its financial resources. Thus, the Church is committed to integrity and an open leadership that will encourage confidence in God and His Church. It is the responsibility of
Recognizing that the Church has entrusted me with a leadership position, accepting my role as a model to other members, and recognizing my accountability to God and to the Church, I affirm the Statement on Personal Commitment to Financial Integrity and Transparency, and will keep this document as a reminder of my personal commitment.
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