Church Auditing Department Report, 2016
Open talk in Gospel LibraryContents
Before Reading
Before reading or listening to the talk, consider the following questions:
- What is the role of the Church Auditing Department?
- Who authorizes the expenditure of Church funds?
- What principles does the Church follow in managing its finances?
- What was the conclusion of the Church Auditing Department for the year 2016?
Topics
Authorizing Expenditure of Church Funds
The Council on the Disposition of the Tithes, composed of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and the Presiding Bishopric, authorizes the expenditure of Church funds. This is done in accordance with the guidelines set forth in section 120 of the Doctrine and Covenants.
As directed by revelation in section 120 of the Doctrine and Covenants, the Council on the Disposition of the Tithes—composed of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and the Presiding Bishopric—authorizes the expenditure of Church funds.
- Who comprises the Council on the Disposition of the Tithes?
- What section of the Doctrine and Covenants outlines the authorization of Church funds?
- How can understanding the authorization process of Church funds strengthen your trust in Church leadership?
- In what ways can you apply the principles of budgeting and financial stewardship in your personal life?
Role and Independence of the Church Auditing Department
The Church Auditing Department is responsible for performing audits to provide reasonable assurance regarding contributions, expenditures, and safeguarding of Church assets. The department operates independently from other Church departments and is staffed by credentialed professionals.
The Church Auditing Department, which consists of credentialed professionals and is independent of all other Church departments, has responsibility to perform audits for the purpose of providing reasonable assurance regarding contributions received, expenditures made, and safeguarding of Church assets.
- What is the primary responsibility of the Church Auditing Department?
- Why is the independence of the Church Auditing Department important?
- How does the independence of the Church Auditing Department enhance your confidence in the Church's financial practices?
- What steps can you take to ensure transparency and accountability in your personal or professional financial dealings?
Financial Practices of the Church
The Church follows financial practices such as living within a budget, avoiding debt, and saving against a time of need. These practices are not only taught to members but also implemented in the management of Church funds.
The Church follows the practices taught to its members of living within a budget, avoiding debt, and saving against a time of need.
- What financial practices does the Church follow?
- How do these practices reflect the teachings given to Church members?
- In what ways can you incorporate the principles of budgeting, avoiding debt, and saving in your own life?
- Reflect on a time when following these financial practices helped you or your family. How did it impact your situation?
Audit Results for 2016
The Church Auditing Department concluded that, for the year 2016, contributions received, expenditures made, and assets of the Church were recorded and administered in accordance with approved budgets, policies, and accounting practices.
Based upon audits performed, the Church Auditing Department is of the opinion that, in all material respects, contributions received, expenditures made, and assets of the Church for the year 2016 have been recorded and administered in accordance with approved Church budgets, policies, and accounting practices.
- What was the conclusion of the Church Auditing Department for the year 2016?
- How does the audit result reflect on the Church's financial management?
- How can the positive audit results of the Church inspire you to maintain integrity in your own financial practices?
- What can you learn from the Church's adherence to budgets and policies that you can apply to your personal or family finances?
Respect for Financial Stewardship
The report underscores the importance of financial stewardship and the Church's commitment to managing its resources responsibly. This respect for financial stewardship is a reflection of the Church's dedication to the principles of transparency and accountability.
Respectfully submitted, Church Auditing Department, Kevin R. Jergensen, Managing Director.
- Why is financial stewardship important for the Church?
- How does the Church demonstrate its commitment to financial stewardship?
- How can you show respect for financial stewardship in your own life?
- What steps can you take to ensure you are accountable for the resources you manage?
