A commonly asked question is, "Why do we need to conduct a financial examination or an audit/review?" Actually, there is not one answer to fit all situations, but here are a few good reasons.

1. This is the best way to:

• Protect the persons who are elected to positions of financial responsibility from unwarranted charges and careless or improper handling of funds.
• Build the trust and confidence of the financial supporters of churches and associations in the way the money they contribute is being properly accounted for (trust and confidence lead to improved patterns of financial support).
• Set habits of fiscal responsibility to assure that when there is turnover in personnel there will be continuity in accountability and nothing will fall through the cracks.
• Assure that financial gifts made to the church or association with special conditions attached are consistently administered in accordance with the donor's desires, and thus lets donors know that their gifts are used as intended.
• Provide checks and balances for monies received and expended.

2. Conducting a financial examination or an audit/review is not a symbol of distrust.
3. Conducting a financial examination or an audit/review is a characteristic of responsibility.
4. Conducting a financial examination or an audit/review is good stewardship.
5. Conducting a financial examination is a message to those who make contributions that the church or association cares about their financial support.

To print a copy click the following link. A Financial Examination Guide for Baptist Churches and Associations.

Permission granted to use this resource by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention, Little Rock, Arkansas, 2004 

For further information contact the Stewardship Development Office at 800-723-7242 (in state) or 803-765-0030.