Alastair Findlay will stand down as Chair of the DiocesanBoard of Finance at the end of 2019 after 20 years in the role. He tells usabout his time in post.
I became Chair of the DBF on 1 January 2000 after beinginvited to take on the role by Bishop Peter Selby. At the time, I was also the Chairof the House of Laity, so for a while I wore two hats! Being an accountant bytraining, I was well versed with commercial accounting, but diocesan financesdefinitely have their own challenges.
I started at a very significant moment for the Diocese. IndividualDBFs had become responsible for contributing to clergy pensions after theprevious system became unsustainable (where contributions were paid for by theChurch Commissioners). Before then, the cost of ministry was not as widelyunderstood as it is now, albeit that there is always work to do in this area.
I have always maintained that Parish Share should be a giftfrom parishes to the DBF rather than a tax. We should be generous as a responseto a generous and giving God, for the benefit of us all. Its important that wefocus on this our financial issues wont be overcome simply by makingfinancial appeals, it must be linked to our Christian discipleship.
Being Chair of the DBF has been a fulfilling yetchallenging role and Ive always felt it was Gods work. Throughout my time, ithas been great to have the support of colleagues, particularly Robert asDiocesan Secretary and both bishops Peter and John as well as people throughoutthe Diocese.When I was made redundantfrom my paid employment, being Chair of the DBF helped me to see my life stillhad value and purpose it was a great support during a difficult time for me.
However, its definitely time for me to move on and for afresh pair of eyes to take up the role. I would encourage my successor toremember that they are not looking after just any set of accounts they willbe responsible for Gods work in the Diocese of Worcester and shouldnt losesight of that. Its important to listen to a wide range of people and take afirm line when necessary; its not always possible to say yes. Its also beenvaluable being a parishioner as this has given me a different perspective onthe issues weve been discussing.
Although Ill continue to be a PCC and Deanery Synodmember, Ill be giving up all my diocesan roles at the end of the year. Itsbeen immensely rewarding and Ill miss being so involved, but its definitelytime for me to retire. It will be great to have more time to travel with mywife Anne and Im waiting to see what Gods got in store for me around the nextcorner!
