Return to Table of Contents

Why Documentation In A Church Is Important

Sidebars to the article Managing The Church’s Financial Resources: Ten Important Financial Controls For Every Church Recommended Resources Sample Bookkeeper Job Description Employee Or Independent Contractor? Church Budgeting Chart of Accounts Why Documentation In A Church Is Important

Documentation serves as a safeguard to both the church leader and church body. Not only do external organizations (governmental agencies, financial institutions, accounting professions, and courts of law) demand proper and adequate documentation regarding the church’s organizational structure and operations systems, but prudent church leadership should demonstrate the highest levels of operational integrity by preparing and maintaining such documentation.

Here are 14 reasons why documentation is so important. Documentation

1. clarifies responsibilities and duties.
2. defines authority levels.
3. shows performance of actions and tasks.
4. reduces confusion.
5. allows for orderly delegation.
6. clarifies facts.
7. shows compliance.
8. reduces suspicion.
9. converts recurring problems into routine processes.
10. creates consistency in the application of procedures.
11. displays a feeling of order and fairness.
12. reduces risks and exposures.
13. forces accountability of leadership.
14. was used by God as a means of communication.

—John P. Joseph, St. Petersburg, Florida