Technology is the bridge that connects us to the future, and platforms like Zoom have transformed the way we communicate, collaborate, and create. They are not just tools for today—they are paving the way for a more connected and flexible tomorrow. 

FACILITATORS: Charles Judware serves as the Parish Administrator at St. Paul’s Willimantic, where he has been managing the technology and hybrid services for over six years, consistently adapting to new challenges and leveraging technology to meet evolving needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he developed strong expertise in managing Zoom for virtual communication and services. He became skilled in hosting, screen sharing, optimizing audio and video settings, and managing participants. This proficiency has allowed him to successfully organize and run online meetings, services, and collaborative sessions for the church, ensuring smooth and productive remote experiences for all involved.

Liz Charron was raised in the Episcopal Church in Maryland and became a member of St. Paul’s Willimantic in 1991.  During her time at St. Paul’s, she has served in many roles:  Church School leader, Vestry member, Treasurer and is currently Senior Warden. Liz recently retired from her financial advisory business that she started 25 years ago.  The timing on this is a blessing since she is leading her congregation through a transition following the retirement of their longtime priest at the end of last year. Liz lives in Lebanon CT where she and her husband, Joe, raised their two children.  During the summers, they spend time at their property on Lake Champlain in VT.  St Paul’s interactive hybrid services allow her to fully participate while enjoying the sun and water in VT.

Financial administration, budgeting, and year-end reviews are essential for the stewardship of God’s resources. These best practices provide structure, internal controls, and insights into the parish’s financial health. This ultimately leads to informed decision-making and long-term financial stability.  We will discuss ensuring the church’s financial health and long-term stability in the context of its Financial Administration, Budgeting, and Year-End Reviews. Who should attend?  Priests, Vestry Members, and Treasurers are invited to join ECCT Staff in exploring the intricacies of accounting’s best practices.  

Facilitators: Candace Naudé,ECCT’s Accounts Manager, manages all aspects relating to Accounts Payable as well as Accounts Receivable, which includes ensuring vendors get paid in a timely and respectful manner. She is responsible for the daily oversight, financial accuracy, and timeliness of transactions within all primary and subsidiary accounts, financial reports, the management of schedules to generate and interpret essential financial information that is consistent with the prudent management of the institutional funds. Candace is an Army Veteran with a tour of duty in Afghanistan. She has a bachelor’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University in Music and Philosophy.  

Derrick Da Silva, ECCT’s Controller, is responsible for the oversight and reviews of all financial related activities within the organization. He works with ECCT’s external auditors and ensures that internal financial controls are in place and in compliance with General Acceptable Accounting Principles GAAP. 

Kathy O’Hearn, ECCT’s Senior Staff Accountant, supervises the Accounts Manager, processes ECCT staff payroll, processes month end close entries, reconciles bank accounts, and assists with audits and financial reporting for ECCT. She came to ECCT five years ago with over 20 years of business experience, including corporate and small business accounting and operations management. Kathy graduated from Marist University with a Degree in Business Administration and a minor in Economics. She also has a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting from Southern Connecticut State University.