Finance Council-Parish Finance Councils assist the pastor in the administration of parish temporal matters. These guidelines are designed to aid Pastors and Finance Council members in the effective functioning of a Parish Finance Council by supporting the pastor in his stewardship of parish resources while being accountable to the parish and the diocesan bishop. An active, well-formed Parish Finance Council is a key element for promoting the financial health of a parish, assuring accountability and assisting the pastor with his temporal responsibilities.