The Parish Finance Council is made up of lay persons who advise the Pastor in matters pertaining to the financial affairs of the parish. The relationship between the Pastor and the Finance Council is one of support and collaboration. The Finance Council provides advice and counsel to the Pastor; the Pastor alone is the decision maker regarding administration of the parish. The Council provides support and encouragement to the Pastor by sharing the voice of the parish and being a sounding board for the Pastor's plans and ideas.  In fulfilling its responsibilities, the Finance Council must be directed by the values of the Gospel as well as by good business practices. Efficient and effective use and management of parish resources must be measured as much by their contribution to parish mission and ministry as by commonly accepted business standards. The Council meets four times a year.