Reporting to the Diocese
Parochial Reports
Parochial reports are a critical element in helping us form an understanding of the state of the church. They are also a Canonical requirement. By having clear and accurate data, we will be in a better position to listen to the Holy Spirit as we lead and respond to the challenges in our congregations and ministries, the Episcopal Church in Colorado, and the Episcopal Church at large.
The 2023 Parochial Report is now available. The forms and instructions can be accessed on the Episcopal Church website at: episcopalchurch.org/research/forms-and-instructions. Note: once the parochial report is complete a copy no longer needs to be sent to the Office of the Bishop. We are able to access all reports online. In addition, signatures are no longer needed on the “Preparation and Certification” page. The Episcopal Church Center and the Office of the Bishop accept the names and dates entered as electronic signatures. Beginning January 4, 2024, the 2023 Parochial Report can be filled out online at http://pr.dfms.org.
In an effort to continue the spirit of a paperless General Convention, the Episcopal Church will not be sending a batch of letters with information regarding the filing of the 2023 Parochial Report to all congregations. Instead, the Episcopal Church will email congregations individually with links and updated information. The email will be sent to the login email used last year. All congregations were asked to create a new login email and password. If you forgot your login email and password, please contact your diocesan administrator at kirsten@episcopalcolorado.org. Reminder: the canonical deadline to submit your reports to the diocese is March 1, 2024.
New Parochial Report Tool Includes Online Worship Attendance Tracking
The General Convention Office has released a new web-based application designed to assist in compiling data for the annual parochial report of The Episcopal Church. This app, which can be used on various devices such as computers, tablets, and phones, allows users to track details of all liturgies in their congregation. It simplifies the process of reporting by automatically calculating statistics like the number of Eucharists, baptisms, and average Sunday attendance. Data input in 2024 will be used for the 2025 parochial report. It includes features for counting online worship attendees through metrics for unique live and recorded views. Additionally, the app offers visual representations of data through graphs, a feature developed in collaboration with Worship Times.
Users must create an account using their congregation’s unique identity and can then input and track relevant data. The app also provides instructional videos and support via a dedicated email at the General Convention Office. The introduction of this tool is expected to ease the reporting process and provide clarity on data tracking for church congregations.
Financial Commitment to our Diocese and Region
All Parishes and Missions commit to the Diocesan canonical requirement of giving a minimum of 10% of “plate and pledge” to the work of the Diocesan budget and a voluntary 5% to the work of the Region. If the congregation is not currently at the Diocesan standard regarding giving to the Diocese, please contact Canon Jon Anderson at Jon@EpiscopalColorado.org to develop a plan to achieve the Diocesan standard.
Audit and Financials
Complete Audit and Financials – Due Sept. 1 – send to Pam Greenfield at Pam@EpiscopalColorado.org. Audit Guidelines | Alternative Audit Requirements