Dear Members, 

Recently the Financial Committee began an annual audit process for our church. We contracted with Eckler Consulting, LLC, who works with many of our sister churches in the conference. We have now completed the 2009 audit for our church. I am happy to report all transactions have been verified and in good order. Over the next few months we will work to implement several of the recommendations to further ensure our church’s financial security. I have attached a copy of the audit summary letter below. I appreciate your prayers and patience through this process.

 God Bless,

Scott Paschal

February 1, 2010

Dear Scott,

Thank you very much for allowing me to serve the Carthage United Methodist Church.

As required in the Agreement between our respective organizations, I have completed a very detailed examination of all 2009 financial activity.  To ensure a comprehensive examination, each deposit and each disbursement was examined.  In total, over 940 transactions were tested.

In conducting my examination, auditing standards developed specifically for religious and non-profit organizations were utilized.  These standards, unlike those that guide traditional audits, do not require an evaluation of accounting principles or compliance issues.  Rather, these standards are designed to assess the overall cash management process to determine if the funds received and the persons who handle these funds are adequately protected.  The findings and recommendation presented in the CUP Audit Report are an unbiased, factual presentation of the results of my examination.

Although a number of transactions did not meet the CUP audit criteria and policies and procedures need to be improved, there is no evidence that funds have been mishandled, misused, or misappropriated during the Audit Period.

I sincerely commend the Finance Commitee for beginning an annual audit program - Not because it is mandated by the United Methodist Book of Discipline, but because it is a responsibility that must be fulfilled to satisfy basic stewardship and fiduciary obligations and commitments.  I have enjoyed working with everyone and I look forward to serving you and the congregation of the Carthage United Methodist Church every year.

Thank you again for allowing me to help you, the Finance Committee, and the staff become better stewardsof the tithes and offerings that you recieve in Christ's name.

Sincerely,

Dale G. Eckler

Eckler Conslting, LLC