by Megan Harding
Photos by Randy Ruchotzke
Volunteers give generously of their time to run many vital aspects of the church, and there’s one category of volunteers that works behind the scenes and is elected by members of the congregation. Financial Secretaries (FinSecs) are responsible for sorting, counting, and distributing funds from the collection basket, as well as checks that come in the mail. It’s an in-person job that’s carried out by one of the three Financial Secretaries, along with an Alternate or helper. The work is always done in pairs to provide an extra layer of trust.
“It’s one of those kind of invisible jobs, that’s really important, and it’s got to be done right,” says Financial Secretary Saunis Parsons. Although she doesn’t describe herself as a “numbers person,” Saunis says the position does require attention to detail, familiarity with spreadsheets, and some initial training. For each check or cash donation that comes in, there is a multi-step process to be sure the funds go into the correct account (such as for the youth ministry or that month’s Special Collection) or are credited to the right individual pledge, or other revenue stream (such as rentals). Once everything is entered, the information is sent to Congregational Administrator MaryBeth Hannan and money is deposited in the bank. It takes about an hour each week for one of the secretaries and a helper.
Because the job comes with a learning curve, the three-year terms of financial secretaries are staggered. Only one person’s term will expire In any given year. An exception came in 2025, after Financial Secretary Dave Watt stepped up to the treasurer position that had recently become vacant. Mike Snyder (pictured at the computer) was appointed by the board in mid-term to complete Dave’s term. “The training is extensive and I’ve had excellent tutors,” Mike says. Retired math teacher John Brannan is a longtime church member who has served as treasurer and now provides an extra set of eyes, as needed, as an elected Alternate Financial Secretary. Marion Yeagler (pictured sorting through envelopes), serves as a helper when needed.
“It’s not a huge commitment, but it’s a regular and known one,” says Lois Weir, who is currently serving as a Financial Secretary after six years as Treasurer. She likes the job because it’s an ongoing role that is predictable; the schedule is set three months at a time. “Sometimes it’s pretty exciting when we get a really big donation,” Weir says, but generally the work is routine. “That’s how we want our finances to be, routine” she quipped.
Saunis Parsons, Mike Snyder, and Lois Weir—the current team of Financial Secretaries—all say that working together in pairs is a natural way to become friends with other UUs. Contact the Leadership Development Committee [email protected] to express interest in serving as a Financial Secretary or Alternate. Both positions require a nomination by the LDC and election by the congregation at the annual meeting.
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