Parish Record Keeper (PRK) is a software application dependent on Microsoft Access designed to manage parish databases, including records of individuals, families, and contributions. It operates on Windows with Access 2013 or later (or Access Runtime) and is particularly designed for Chipata Diocese, Zambia.

Key Features

• Dual Record Systems: Manages both Baptism Book System (a simple table for baptisms) and Cards File System (complex family and individual records with contributions).
• Family and Individual Records: Tracks unique person IDs and maintains different types of cards for each person based on their situation (e.g., primary, secondary, parent card).
• Data and Contribution Management: Tracks contributions and allows multiple contribution categories and year-specific data displays.
• Organizational Structure Setup: Supports customized multi-tiered parish structure labels, such as Outstations, Prayer Centres and Small Christian Communities.
• Printing and Reporting: Prints family and individual cards as well as detailed contribution reports.
• Advanced Controls and Repair Functions: Includes tools for database integrity checks, resetting data, and syncing backend versions.

Ways to Use the Application

• Setting Up Parish Information: Define parish details, set organizational structures, and edit entities such as lay-groups.
• Managing Parishioners' Records: Record baptism information, link children to parents, assign individuals to multiple cards, and manage past and present marital statuses, including polygamous realities.
• Tracking Contributions: Set up contribution types, add contributions for individuals, and compile group reports.
• Searching and Filtering Data: Search for records based on names, outstation, or lay-groups, and apply filters.
• Printing and Reports: Generate family and individual cards or contribution reports for groups or prayer centres.
• Advanced Controls: Use data repair and sync options, manage special operations, and perform bulk edits on records through SQL.
• Managing Family Dynamics: Handle marriage changes, add/remove spouses, mark individuals as "isolati" (independent children), and link children to cards.
• Linking and Syncing Systems: Link Baptism Book entries to Family Records.
• Attaching Documents: Attach pictures or supplementary files to individual records, such as certificates or photos.
• Using Synonymous Names: Handle variant names effectively for improved search results, using adaptable synonymous name tables.

Recommendation

Parish Record Keeper is a versatile tool for managing parish data, contributions, and records, catering to complex family situations, various parish structures, and individual needs. It offers extensive customization, comprehensive data management options, and robust print/report capabilities, making it an essential tool for parishes in managing community and sacramental records efficiently.