Coordinator of Evangelization and Formation - St. Benedict Parish - Chicago - Vicariate II

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The Archdiocese of Chicago, the third largest Catholic diocese in the United States, serves more than 2.2 million Catholics across Cook and Lake Counties under the leadership of Cardinal Blase J. Cupich.

Saint Benedict Parish is a vibrant, faith-filled parish committed to forming missionary disciples. The parish Coordinator of Evangelization and Formation (CEF) serves within the ministry of Lifelong Faith Formation to:

* oversee the religious education program and sacramental preparation of children in grades K-8;

* accompany individuals and families through the OCIA process;

* create and sustain meaningful opportunities for families to encounter Christ and deepen their faith together.

The CEF reports to and shares administrative support with the Director of Lifelong Faith Formation, and works collaboratively with the pastor, parish staff, and school leadership to foster lifelong discipleship and active participation in parish life.

Compliance with VIRTUS and Archdiocesan safe environment policies is required.

Responsibilities

Vision & Leadership

* Implement vision and provide leadership for a comprehensive family faith formation ministry that accompanies families in growing as disciples of Jesus Christ.

* Work with the Director of Lifelong Formation to develop and oversee formation pathways for parents and families, especially those connected to the parish school and religious education programs.

* Collaborate with clergy, parish staff, school and lay leadership to integrate family faith formation into the broader mission of the parish.

Religious Education for Children

* Oversee all aspects of the religious education program, including registration, scheduling, catechist coordination, tuition collection, and recordkeeping.

* Oversee sacramental preparation programs and ensure sacramental records are properly maintained.

* Prepare and coordinate family-centered formation opportunities, including Sunday class, Masses and seasonal events.

* Develop engaging opportunities for parents and families through prayer, service, and learning experiences.

* Collaborate with Saint Benedict Preparatory School to support faith formation of students and families.

Catechetical & Volunteer Formation

* Recruit, form, train, and support catechists and volunteers.

* Foster collaboration, spiritual growth, and ongoing development among catechists.

* Ensure all formation materials and programs are faithful to Church teaching, age-appropriate, culturally responsive, and compliant with Archdiocesan policies.

* Maintain professional and spiritual growth through continuing formation and participation in ministerial organizations.

Program Development & Parish Engagement

* Develop and oversee formation pathways for parents and families, recognizing parents as the primary educators of their children in the faith.

* Accompany individuals and families as the staff liaison to the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) as they journey toward full initiation into the Church.

* Coordinate and assist with parish-wide formation opportunities such as retreats, missions, speaker events, and seasonal programs.

Administration & Compliance

* Communicate regularly and pastorally with families and parishioners across multiple platforms.

* Support compliance with VIRTUS and Archdiocesan safe environment requirements for volunteers.

* Participate actively in parish staff meetings, planning, and ongoing formation.

* Perform other duties as assigned by the Pastor, Director of Lifelong Formation, and other leadership.

Qualifications

* Practicing Catholic who faithfully supports and models the teachings of the Catholic Church.

* Bachelor's degree in theology, education, pastoral studies, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

* Experience in parish faith formation, catechetical leadership, youth ministry, or Catholic education.

* Possess a heart for evangelization and discipleship.

* Ability to accompany parishioners and seekers in their spiritual journey through relational ministry fostering deeper discipleship and sacramental life in Jesus Christ and His Church.

* Demonstrated ability to recruit, train, and support volunteers and catechists.

* Strong organizational, administrative, communication, and pastoral leadership skills.

* Experience with sacramental preparation, recordkeeping, and family-centered ministry.

* Ability to collaborate effectively with clergy, parish staff, school leadership, and volunteers.

* VIRTUS compliance is required.

Compensation

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here. This position has a salary range of $45,000-$55,000 per year. An employee's pay within the range is based on relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, location & business needs.