Secretary and Bookkeeper

Job Description

Position Title
Full-Time Parish Secretary / Bookkeeper (Bilingual English & Portuguese)
Position Summary
The Parish Secretary / Bookkeeper serves as the welcoming face and administrative backbone of the parish. This individual is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the parish office, providing courteous assistance to parishioners and visitors while maintaining accurate parish records and supporting the financial administration of the parish. The successful candidate must be fluent in both English and Portuguese, possess strong computer and organizational skills, and demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and a commitment to the mission of the Catholic Church.
Work Schedule
Full-Time
Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
One-hour unpaid lunch break
Primary Responsibilities
Administrative
Welcome and assist parishioners, visitors, and vendors in a friendly and professional manner.
Answer and direct telephone calls, emails, and correspondence.
Maintain parish records, including sacramental registers and parishioner database.
Prepare letters, bulletins, forms, schedules, and other parish communications.
Coordinate Mass intentions, sacramental scheduling, and parish calendar.
Order and maintain office supplies and equipment.
Assist the pastor and parish staff with administrative projects as needed.
Bookkeeping
Record parish income and expenditures accurately.
Process invoices and maintain accounts payable records.
Assist with payroll documentation and financial recordkeeping.
Reconcile bank statements and maintain organized financial files.
Prepare financial reports for the pastor and finance council as requested.
Maintain confidentiality regarding all financial information.
Qualifications
Fluency in English and Portuguese (spoken and written) is required.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Proficiency with computers, including:
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Parish management software (or ability to learn quickly)
Accounting/bookkeeping software (experience preferred)
Ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work respectfully with clergy, staff, volunteers, and parishioners.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
Previous administrative or bookkeeping experience is preferred.
Experience working in a parish or non-profit organization is an asset.
Personal Qualities
Friendly, welcoming, and service-oriented.
Dependable, punctual, and self-motivated.
Professional in appearance and conduct.
Demonstrates integrity, discretion, and sound judgment.
Respectful of and supportive of the mission, teachings, and values of the Roman Catholic Church.

About the Employer

To preach the Gospel and bring souls to Christ through the Traditions of the Church and our Portuguese cultural traditions.