BUDGET DISCUSSION

Friday afternoon the Assembly delegates discussed the 2003 budget. In terms of finances 2003 was a significant year for the Diocese, which despite a challenging economy had satisfactory financial results.

The sluggish economy meant the Diocese received less distribution from the Armenian Church Endowment Fund (ACEF). The Diocesan budget was reduced by $400,000 in 2003. There was still a year-end deficit of $93,000, which was mostly related to assisting clergy in needs and spiritual outreach, which is related to deacons and other clergy.

The Diocesan 2003 budget was $4.37 million.

"The Diocese operated within its means in a prudent and responsible manner, while satisfying the needs and requests of our parish community," said Oscar Tatosian, treasurer of the Diocesan Council.

Delegates asked questions of the Diocesan Council and the staff related to the projected revenues and changes of spending in the past year and the proposed upcoming budget year. One focus of the discussion was the Assembly's approval last year of an increase in the budget of youth ministry and religious education.

The Diocesan Council said the hire of a college ministry facilitator and additional secretarial support for the ministry and program coordinators will improve and strengthen the Diocese's youth ministry and Christian education efforts.

Some delegates disagreed and asked the Diocese to instead hire additional well-qualified religious education staff. That proposal was voted down.

"I would request you don't go into micromanagement," the Primate told the delegates. "Just ask what you want from the Diocese. If your requests are not fulfilled, bring your concerns to me."

When dealing with the upcoming 2005 budget, the delegates saw familiar numbers.

"The year 2005 is very similar to 2004, in terms of personnel, expenditures, revenues," Tatosian said. "The years are a continuation."

More than a third of the budget is focused on youth and education.

"Now we have to make sure we're performing. The money is there, but it's not going to be the only solution. We need to make sure to get maximum benefit," Tatosian said.

Questions were raised as to the Diocese's backup plan if fund-raising efforts fall short in the coming year.

"When we do see there is a shortfall in revenues, we have frozen spending until we can make sure the revenue shortfall is overcome," said Diocesan Council member James Kalustian.

Next year's budget was accepted as presented.

Posted by Jake at April 30, 2004 09:12 PM