It's hard for me to understand why you say "making noise" gets you "nowhere." If you cared to say more, I might understand.

What I have in mind would be examples like this:

- Members of existing finance councils ask for specific documents; if not provided, they speak publicly about their lack of access and lack of confidence. And when I say, "speak publicly," I mean to other parishioners, at events, to higher ups in the Church, and if necessary, in the media.
- Members of pastoral council ask questions; if not answered, do what I described above.
- Parishioners do what I just described above.
- If responses aren't forthcoming, withhold contributions. Turn in empty contribution envelopes. Talk publicly about this.
- Contact big givers in the parish to share concerns.

And, in all this, I'm assuming the focus is kept on the facts, not on side issues or personalities. I think these approaches would most definitely get attention.