The Financial Secretary: Faithful Stewardship Behind the Scenes

Every Lord’s Day, God’s people bring their tithes and offerings. These are gifts of gratitude and faith, entrusted to the church for the advancement of Christ’s kingdom. But behind the visible act of giving lies a quiet, essential ministry: the careful stewardship of those resources. At First Free, this trust rests in part with our elected Financial Secretary.

Guarding the Trust of God’s People

The central responsibility of the Financial Secretary is to receive, record, and safeguard the congregation’s gifts. Working with the Finance Committee (sometimes referred to as the Counting Team), the Financial Secretary ensures that all offerings are counted in the presence of witnesses, deposited securely, and recorded faithfully.

These tasks, though often unseen, protect the integrity of the church’s witness and give confidence to the congregation that its gifts are handled with transparency and care. While other aspects of financial reporting and donor records are managed by our Operations Manager, the Financial Secretary plays a vital role in the chain of accountability that guards the church’s resources for gospel ministry.

A Biblical Pattern of Stewardship

Scripture consistently ties financial faithfulness to spiritual maturity. Jesus taught, “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much” (Luke 16:10). The early church appointed trustworthy servants to administer resources wisely so that the apostles could devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:1–4). Paul himself emphasized the importance of handling financial gifts “honorably not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man” (2 Cor. 8:20–21).

Careful stewardship is part of ministry. By ensuring that offerings are handled with integrity, the Financial Secretary and those who serve alongside bear witness to God’s holiness and safeguard the church’s credibility.

Congregational Stewardship

Because we are a congregational church, the Financial Secretary does not serve in isolation but alongside the Finance Committee and under the accountability of the Trustee Board. In electing a Financial Secretary, the congregation entrusts this person with a responsibility requiring not only accuracy and diligence but also integrity and proven Christian character.

Praying for This Ministry

As you think of our Financial Secretary, pray for faithfulness in a work that is often hidden yet important. Pray that accuracy and diligence would be matched by a spirit of worship, and that even in handling numbers and deposits there would be joy in serving Christ and His church. And pray that God would continue to raise up men and women eager to guard His gifts with reverence and gladness.

This article is part of an ongoing series exploring biblical leadership in Christ's church. May it deepen our understanding, strengthen our prayers, and help us all serve one another in love.

Originally prepared by Kevin Labby during his ministry at First Evangelical Free Church of McKeesport. Used with permission.