Accounting Specialist | Full-Time

SUMMARY

The parish Accounting Specialist maintains records of financial transactions, provides accounting services for the parish, and serves as the liaison with the Diocesan Shared Accounting Services (DSAS). The parish Accounting Specialist is required to exercise independent judgment and initiative in analyzing and providing recommendations regarding financial matters. Areas of assignment include, but are not necessarily limited to, accounts receivable, payables, bank reconciliation, budgeting, purchasing, financial reporting and analysis, and other related functions. The Accounting Specialist reports to the Director of Operations.

The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work performed by its employees.

  1. Authenticity: Conviction that God has called us to reflect exteriorly our inner life of faith in our daily living
  2. Respect: Affirming each person’s God-given dignity and uniqueness.
  3. Courage: Inspired by this gift of the Holy Spirit, we proclaim and live the Word of God fearlessly and devotedly.
  4. Commitment: Individually and collectively, we are steadfast to the team and its purpose.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Financial Responsibilities

  • Develops and maintains system to account for financial transactions by establishing a chart of accounts, working with Diocesan Shared Accounting Services (DSAS), following diocesan bookkeeping policies and procedures.
  • Maintains subsidiary accounts by verifying, allocating, and preparing transactions for DSAS posting.
  • Balances subsidiary accounts by reconciling entries.
  • Reviews the Diocesan prepared general ledger for accuracy.
  • Reviews the weekly DSAS package to ensure all transactions have been properly processed and recorded. Prepares the weekly packet in the absence of the Accounting Assistant.
  • Balances general ledger by preparing a trial balance; reconciling entries.
  • Assists the Director of Operations in ensuring all employee timecards are accurate and approved by supervisors; submitting payroll package to payroll office in a timely manner; working with payroll office in preparing payroll, associated taxes and reports; distributes checks.
  • Prepares bi-weekly, quarterly and annual payroll reconciliations.
  • Verifies accuracy of information in Paylocity, W-2’s and 1099’s.
  • Prepares monthly, quarterly, and year-end finance statements and other reports for parish and Diocese, along with explanations of monthly fluctuations and variances to budget in a timely manner.
  • Reports to the Director of Operations regarding the finances of parish.
  • Prepares, administers, and reviews the budget process in collaboration with the Pastor, Director of Operations, and Finance Committee.
  • Liaison for parish with the Diocesan Shared Accounting Services (DSAS). Duties include:
    • Reviews codes and AP;
    • Reviews and approves cash collections transactions; and
    • Reviews monthly and periodic reporting with DSAS Staff.

Human Resources Responsibilities

  • Assists Director of Operations with enrollment of employees in Diocesan benefit plans per direction of the Diocesan Human Resources Office including insurances, annual enrollment, retirement, and 403(b); provides on-going information and documentation to employees.
  • Assists Director of Operations with new and terminating employee questions and paperwork.
  • Assists Director of Operations with employment actions in the HRIS system; ensures documentation is accurate and sufficient; maintains accurate employment and pay records within the HRIS system.
  • Assists Director of Operations by responding to employee payroll inquiries.
  • Supervises the Accounting Assistant/purchasing.
  • Professionally communicates and interacts with staff members, management team, finance committee, and Diocesan officials.
  • Provides day-to-day guidance and oversight of subordinates; actively works to promote and recognize performance.
  • Hires, trains, supervises, motivates, and develops accounting assistant; manages schedule and workflow.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Attends Diocesan required meetings and workshops.
  • Assists Director of Operations with coordination of parish property and liability insurance, worker’s compensation, in collaboration with Diocesan Risk Manager.
  • Complies with Federal, State, and local legal requirements by studying requirements; enforcing adherence to requirements; filing reports; advising management on needed action.
  • Prepares, tabulates, and analyzes regular or on-demand reports; compiles or monitors various administrative and statistical data; performs research as needed; makes applicable calculations; analyzes data and identifies trends; prepares or generates reports; and maintains records.
  • Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing professional networks; participating in professional societies.
  • Performs moderately complex work under limited supervision and maintains professional discretion in processing matters of a sensitive or confidential nature from both a legal and ethical perspective.
  • Performs additional projects as required by the Director of Operations.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

CATHOLIC FAITH

Requires an appreciation and respect for the Catholic Church and its teachings. Church employees must conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the Church. Their public behavior must not violate the faith, morals or laws of the Church or the policies of the diocese.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field, finance and/or accounting required; CPA preferred.
  • Demonstrated technical ability in accounting or finance with five (5) or more years of professional experience in positions of increasing responsibility.
  • Thorough knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting methodologies.
  • Working knowledge of budgeting principles and practices (including use of spreadsheet software), general ledger and reconciliation practices.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel. Experience with PDS, QuickBooks software, Paylocity preferred.

OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES

  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Excellent oral/written communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with the Director of Operations.
  • Excellent analytical skills with an ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Knowledge of and respect for the Catholic Church, its teaching, and mission required.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This person may need to be available in the evening and weekends, as needed. Must be willing to work in conditions of stress and function well under pressure.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (15 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation performing repetitive motions of the fingers, hands, wrists and arms. Requires the ability to read/see up close and at a distance. A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Requirements are representative of the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and ability.

Way of the Cross for Caregivers

Caring for the Caregiver
A note of hope, love and inspiration
to remind you that the Lord cares for you.

May the grace and peace of the Lord be with you in abundance,
–deb and kelly

The Way of the Cross for Caregivers

The rich tradition of the Stations of the Cross allows us to put ourselves into the story as we too journey to Calvary. See how Lent becomes more significant as the focus is on the Cross and the depth of the Lord’s loving response to you, and to today’s world.

Our Lord understands our struggles, and praying the Stations help us understand suffering from a new perspective. The reflections in our Way of the Cross for are written especially for the ill, elderly and the caregivers who love them. These prayerful Stations of the Cross encourage a deeper understanding of the caregiving journey in light of Christ’s journey to Calvary, and reminds us that we are not alone.

The First Station: Jesus is Condemned to Death
Reflection:
Abandoned. Scourged. Condemned. Alone. In my caregiving, I too have had dark hours. As I begin praying these Stations, Lord, I see suffering, an abandonment of self to a greater purpose. Thank you for showing me what self-giving love looks like so I too can continue in my caregiving.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Second Station: Jesus Carries His Cross
Reflection:
With your help, I too Lord accept my cross. Sometimes it is light, other times a heavy burden. But with you by my side, I do not walk with my cross alone.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Third Station: Jesus Falls for the First Time
Reflection:
The heavy wooden beam rests on your torn and bloodied shoulders. You faint and fall. I too, in my caregiving fail, and fall. I don’t pay attention. I allow worries, self-absorption, or mistrust to distract me. I look to you Lord and know that I too can get up and continue with renewed purpose.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Fourth Station: Jesus Meets His Mother
Reflection:
In meeting the gaze of your mother, joy and sorrow are intermingled. So too is my caregiving, the dichotomy of happiness and sorrow, struggle and peace, surrender and fear. In seeing your mother, I am reminded that the connection with the one we love gives solace and consolation.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Fifth Station: Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus Carry His Cross
Reflection:
Weariness takes its toll. The Roman guards fear you will not make it to Calvary so enlist the help of Simon. There are times in my caregiving when total strangers have assisted me too. I am grateful for the friends and family who support me. Allow others to continue to offer assistance and remind me of your loving presence.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Sixth Station: Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus
Reflection:
How simple and tender this gesture is, wiping the sweat and blood from your beloved face. Seeing a need, Veronica responded. Love makes a difference.
Let all my gestures communicate tenderness and compassion. Small gestures can convey great love.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Seventh Station: Jesus Falls for the Second Time
Reflection:
Jesus, you stumble and fall a second time. As I juggle the varied demands of caregiving with my job, or family or my own health and well-being, I am reminded that each fall is an opportunity to start anew. I ask for the grace to begin fresh, with renewed vigor, optimism, and hope.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Eight Station: Jesus meets the Women of Jerusalem
Reflection:
“Weep not for me but for yourselves,” you tell the women bystanders. The way of the cross is not easy, and, as we continue in our vocation as caregiver, we too may weep. The world may tell us to relinquish our responsibility, to focus more on self than other, but we know that our faithfulness and sacrifice are pleasing to you.
We offer and unite our distress with yours.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Ninth Station: Jesus Falls for the Third Time
Reflection:
The expectation is too much, and your tired body will not respond, causing you to stumble and fall, again. But you know that your road does not end here but must continue. I know too that I must go on, and I hold onto your promises. Please, Lord, continue to sanctify and make holy my caregiving journey.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Tenth Station: Jesus is Stripped of His Garments
Reflection:
When it would seem there is nothing left to give, you are stripped of your clothes. There are times in my caregiving when I feel I have nothing left, or that things surely cannot get any worse, but they do. I search for meaning in the chaotic life of a caregiver. Your love shows me that the life of every person, at every stage, has meaning, dignity and purpose.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Eleventh Station: Jesus is Nailed to the Cross
Reflection:
The hammer falls, nailing you to the cross. Help me in my caregiving to look with new eyes on the hurt and pain around me. Help me to not flinch or shy away from what you call me to do; help me to be faithful to you. Your cross is a symbol of suffering, but one your passion transforms it to a symbol of redemption.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Twelfth Station: Jesus Dies on the Cross
Reflection:
It is finished. The suffering is over. Sometimes, if we’re being honest, we long for our caregiving to be over, the suffering of our loved one ended, but then we feel guilty or ashamed for such thoughts. Our hope is in the Resurrection. In You.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Thirteenth Station: Jesus is taken Down from the Cross
Reflection:
The final preparations for burial must begin, but for a moment your body rests in the arms of your mother. In caregiving, it sometimes seems dark, lonely, and deserted. Give me the courage to know you have not abandoned me. Renew my fortitude, strengthen my resolve, soften my heart. Help me to love as you love.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Fourteenth Station: Jesus is Laid in the Tomb
Reflection:
In your death you show us that nothing is too much for God. Nothing is beyond redemption. Help me to give abundantly, knowing that you will refill, refresh and strengthen me. Help me to believe in the empty tomb; let my caregiving then be a joyful witness to a world that is hurting and afraid.
Rest in silence with the Lord.

The Way to Calvary. Praying the Stations of the Cross is a powerful way to contemplate, and enter into, the mystery of Jesus’ gift of himself to us.

Praying the Stations of the Cross helps inspire deep prayer, and allow us to engage our imagination, placing ourselves there, in each scene experiencing everything that is happening, contemplating what each person in the scene is thinking, feeling, hoping, and fearing. Through the Stations of the Cross we can further experience the love of Jesus with gratitude and humility. Deep gratitude leads to real generosity and a desire to love others in return. Quite simply, the tradition of the Stations of the Cross can strengthen your faith as the events of Christ’s Passion become more vivid, taking root in our hearts.

Looking For More? We invite you to prayerfully enter into Christ’s journey to Calvary, with the images, reflections and prayers for you, a caregivers.

Facilities Maintenance Technician | Part Time

SUMMARY

The Facilities Maintenance Technician provides a variety of services such as mechanical repair, general maintenance, and overall handyman services for Church, Family Life Center, Rectory, Community Outreach Campus, and other parish properties and assets.

The Facilities Maintenance Technician will also assist in operating and maintaining audio-visual and livestreaming equipment, ensuring high-quality production for church services and events while supporting the overall functionality of the church facilities.

The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work performed by its employees:

1. Authenticity: Conviction that God has called us to reflect exteriorly our inner life of faith in our daily living

2. Respect: Affirming each person’s God-given dignity and uniqueness.

3. Courage: Inspired by this gift of the Holy Spirit, we proclaim and live the Word of God fearlessly and devotedly.

4. Commitment: Individually and collectively, we are steadfast to the team and its purpose.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification.  They are not listed in any order of importance.  The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
  • Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with staff members, parishioners, vendors, emergency services (police, fire, EMS) and the general public.
  •  Observe visitors and vendors to ensure a safe environment is always maintained.
  • Set up and breakdown events and multifunction rooms for special activities, religious education classes, and other parish / community events.
  • Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot audio-visual (AV) equipment, including microphones, speakers, projectors, and lighting systems for church services and events.
  • Assist in setting up and managing livestreaming equipment to ensure seamless broadcasting of services and special events, including monitoring audio and video quality.
  • Provide general maintenance and assistance at all off campus locations.
  • Performs required preventative maintenance actions such as bulb and HVAC filter replacement.
  • Maintains the baptismal and holy waters fonts.
  • Care for all building exterior and entrances to ensure areas are ready for parish activities.
  • Make minor plumbing, electrical, and air conditioning repairs. Additionally, observes third-party approved contractors while performing work onsite.
  • Assist as needed with ensuring grounds are maintained including spraying weed killer and insecticides.
  • Responsible for opening, closing, and securing facilities.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices when operating equipment and performing maintenance tasks, promoting a safe environment for staff and congregants.
  • Complete and document accident reports promptly and accurately for any incidents occurring on church property, ensuring thorough investigation and adherence to safety protocols, while communicating findings to appropriate church leadership.
  • May be required to work occasional evenings.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff, clergy, volunteers, and parishioners.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities to address technical issues and perform repairs efficiently.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and workflows effectively in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating strong organizational skills and adaptability to respond to varying demands and urgent maintenance issues while ensuring all tasks are completed efficiently and on schedule.
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise good judgment in assessing maintenance issues, prioritizing tasks, and making informed decisions regarding safety, repairs, and resource allocation, ensuring the well-being of church staff, parishioners, and the integrity of church facilities.
  • Familiarity with safety regulations and best practices in maintenance and facilities management, including handling hazardous materials safely.
  • Ability to maintain accurate electronic records of work performed, supplies, equipment, and purchases.
  • Able to speak and write in English with coworkers, supervisors, and vendors.
  • Ability to work alone and in a team environment.
  • Available to work extra hours and be on call for holidays and emergencies, as needed.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  • Must be experienced in building maintenance; one year or more preferred.
  • Possess knowledge of and skills in using various tools and equipment for building maintenance.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License required.
  • Familiarity in general computer operations and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • Ability to learn basic audio / visual and livestreaming equipment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups, including parishioners, clergy, and staff.
  • Strong organizational abilities with attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a busy office environment.
  • Availability to work during regular office hours, with occasional evenings or weekends for special church events as needed.

LANGUAGE / COMMUNICATION SKILLS

  • Ability to read and interpret basic correspondence.
  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Must have a pleasant telephone manner.

REASONING ABILITY

Must be able to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists and the ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, and schedule form.

CATHOLIC FAITH

Requires an appreciation and respect for the Catholic Church and its teachings. Church employees must conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the Church. Their public behavior must not violate the faith, morals or laws of the Church or the policies of the diocese. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The permanence of these essential functions must be without physical accommodation of any sort.

Balancing, carrying, climbing, hearing, kneeling, lifting, pulling, sitting, standing, reaching, stooping, bending, walking, and talking. The employee is required to lift 50 pounds and climb ladders. Work inside and outside of buildings. Work in well-lit and ventilated areas, hot and cold temperatures, and dark and tight quarters. Ability to perform physical labor, and necessary.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The working environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Ode to the Feet of Jesus

by Denise Retzlaff

FLAWLESS HEAVEN FEET: Before your skin felt earth’s hard crust, You walked on carpets of stardust,
thru galaxies You leapt so high, and danced with stars that twinkled nigh.
Even the universe knew so well, each micro atom seemed compelled
to bow in praise, to be so laced, with you, my Lord, in OuterSpace.
We must sing Alleluia too, for feet that carried them to you.

TINY PRENATAL FEET: Before your first kick in Mary’s womb, You walked through heaven’s garden blooms, imagining your human form, even the foreboding storms.
You must had thoughts of good and bad; Your Father’s plan, so ironclad.
YET, You too leapt at Mary’s “YES”, the Virgin Mother would, us bless.
We must sing Alleluia too, for feet that carried us to you.

SOFT INFANT FEET: Before your just-born feet felt hay, in manger cold, heard donkey’s neigh; the shepherds watched their sheep that night, til angels lit that sky so bright.
Your newborn self, then swaddled warm, when sheep and shepherds, manger stormed
to praise the King Emmanuel, who came to earth with us to dwell.
We must sing Alleluia too, for feet that carried us to you!

GROWING CHILD’s FEET: Before your feet walked desert sand, to heal the sick, or lend a hand, They stood in splintering sawdust frayed, beside “dad” Joseph to learn the trade.
Then hiked to preach the Word, good news; but first were dipped with Jordan’s queues.
Before you walked on solid water, You called us all Your sons and daughters!
We must sing Alleluia too, for feet that carried us to you!

ANNOINTED HOLY FEET: Before Your tired feet were carressed by Mary’s hair, perfumed, anointment filled the air…
like prayers that rise to heights unknown, to God who sits on heaven’s throne.
Before you washed Your apostle’s feet, the Passover Supper you must eat.
We need some faith that you are God, to believe AND trust AND bow in AWE….AND
We must sing Alleluia too, for feet that carried us to you!

BAREFOOT BRUISED FEET: Before your feet trudged before the crowd, blood-hungry mouths, with shouts so loud – to crucify – from sinners proud.
Condemned to death, the sentence cruel, though mercy now would overrule.
Barefoot amidst the tortured climb, shredded, bruised yet so sublime.
Before skinned feet were pierced with nails, they stumbled on the rocky trail
to Calvary, they made their way, to save us for eternal Days!
We must sing Alleluia too, for THESE feet have carried us to you!!

RISEN GLORIOUS FEET: Before blood dried on lifeless flesh,
the tomb sealed tightly swaddled feet, its creche.
God’s plan complete – prophets declared; Christ was raised, our salvation prepared.
On wooden cross, He did defeat, sin’s evil power and deceit.
• Before Your feet bolted from death’s dark tomb,you gave us all a choice to bloom:
to walk your path with humble feet,
• to leap for joy with hopeful feet,
• to follow close with faithful feet, and,
• to give You our ALL with Loving feet
We must sing Alleluia too, for THESE Feet have carried us to you!!