Jennifer Neal wanted to succeed—not just in her career, but also as a woman, a mother, and a financial controller at a multibillion-dollar company.
“I was desperately trying to make my mark and have it all,” she said.
But in 2012, her path shifted.
A Divine Nudge Toward Ministry
Her church began searching for a new finance director. Nine people reached out, encouraging her to apply. Ministry work had never been part of her career plans—but Neal felt a spiritual pull.
“It was like Jesus almost taking a two-by-four to my head,” she said. “The Lord was leading me to at least apply.”
After prayer and careful thought, she accepted the role at College Park Church in Indianapolis. Though the job came with a significant pay cut, it better suited her life as a mother of three—and brought new purpose.
“It just gives me a great deal of satisfaction in my position,” she said.
But the shift from corporate to church finance wasn’t easy.
Making the Transition from Business to Ministry
We spoke with church financial experts and editorial advisors to identify key insights for professionals making a similar transition. Here are five crucial things to know:
1. Church Finance Is Not Business as Usual
Switching from the corporate world to a church environment means adjusting your mindset.
“That transition in culture is often underestimated,” said Dan Busby, president emeritus of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability.
Elaine Sommerville, a CPA specializing in nonprofits, agreed:
“People often come out of high-level corporate roles where there’s a clear, structured system. They expect churches to run the same way.”
But churches often operate with less structure. Neal had to adapt her expectations and learn to offer what she calls “extravagant grace.”
“You have to be more understanding,” she explained. “That person who missed your expense report deadline may have been up late helping someone through a crisis. And that matters more than my report.”
2. Tax-Exempt Status Brings Complex Rules
Churches follow a unique and highly regulated tax framework.
“You’ve got to learn the tax law structure, employment law structure, and benefits rules specific to ministries,” said Michael Batts, managing partner at a CPA firm serving nonprofits.
Mistakes can have serious consequences.
“In the business world, overpaying someone might mean losing a deduction,” said Frank Sommerville, CPA and attorney. “In a church, it could threaten your tax-exempt status.”
Elaine Sommerville added:
“Many assume nonprofits don’t deal with taxes. But churches are heavily regulated in ways most people don’t realize.”
3. Donations Create Accounting Challenges
Unlike businesses, churches rely on charitable contributions. And those funds often come with strings attached.
“There’s no real comparison in the business world,” Frank Sommerville said. “A donor might give for a building project—or specifically to buy a piano.”
Churches must:
- Track restricted and unrestricted gifts separately.
- Ensure funds are spent exactly as intended.
- Set up proper accounts and flag restrictions upon receipt.
“You need systems in place to prove compliance with donor restrictions,” Sommerville emphasized.
4. Documentation and Internal Controls Matter
Churches must carefully document every financial transaction—not just for legal reasons, but as a matter of integrity.
“We’re handling God’s resources,” said Dan Busby. “We need a higher level of accountability.”
Tim Samuel, CFO at Bridgeway Community Church, trains pastors on this mindset.
“It’s not about trust—it’s about transparency,” said Samuel, who joined ministry finance in 2007 after a career in public accounting. “Every check needs documentation.”
He advises:
- Require documentation before issuing payments.
- Track every dollar.
- Be patient but firm with staff unfamiliar with internal controls.
Many churches lack basic controls, said Elaine Sommerville:
“It’s common to find one person doing everything—receiving donations, writing checks, and reconciling accounts. But true internal control requires separating duties.”
5. Training Is Critical
The nonprofit world has its own rules, and mastering them takes effort.
“It won’t happen casually,” said Michael Batts. “You need to be intentional—talk to professional advisers, read internal policies, and attend training events.”
Neal has embraced this approach. She frequently reads trusted articles and resources to stay sharp.
“I really wanted to be ‘successful’ in the world’s eyes,” she reflected. “But I’ve found a passion for helping further the kingdom of Christ.”
And even though she’s not preaching from the pulpit, she knows her work matters.
“I’m finding my niche—and I’m passionate about equipping others. That’s changed my whole attitude.”
