Director of Religious Education

Description

The Director of Religious Education is a critical position that requires both vision and implementation while building on the strong foundation of faith formation at all life stages within Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church and School. In alignment with the pastor, the purpose of this job is to design, develop and implement religious education programming in the parish considering the U.S. Bishops' pastoral letters on education, catechesis, youth ministry and evangelization.

Employment in and by the Church is substantially different from secular employment. Church employees must conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the Church. Their public behavior must not violate the faith, morals or laws of the Church or the Archdiocese, such that it can embarrass the Church or give rise to scandal.

It is required that this employee be a practicing Catholic.

• Plan, organize, implement and evaluate all religious education and faith formation programs collaborating with the pastor, parish staff and volunteers and in alignment with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Programs support all life stages: preschool, elementary, junior and senior high school youth, and adults.
• Partner directly with school staff to ensure there is a cohesive approach to religious education of all youth.
• Direct and supervise the religious education staff, catechists and other volunteers for all programs. Ensure staff and volunteers comply with parish policies and procedures.
• Serve as the parish liaison to the archdiocese on religious education and faith formation matters.

• Responsible for sacramental programming and preparation, recording, and policies for the preparation of sacraments considering Catholic Church teaching and Archdiocesan policies and procedures, working closely with the pastor, staff and volunteers. This includes First Holy Communion, First Reconciliation, Confirmation, and OCIA (for both adults and youth).
• Ensure that all catechists are adequately trained, supported and shown proper appreciation.
• In collaboration with the pastor and other ministry staff, develop a plan for a comprehensive approach to sacramental preparation that includes infant baptism, marriage and vocations to religious life.

• Participate in the pastoral planning initiatives of the parish which will include reviewing the approach for faith formation and alternative models for discipleship, evangelization, and gifts.
• Ensure all direct reports have current job descriptions and receive on‑going and frequent direction and communication. Provide support on task execution and conduct annual performance reviews.
• Establish effective partnerships with other ministry leaders (e.g., Pastoral Care, Worship and Liturgy, Communications, etc.) to foster a cohesive and collaborative approach to supporting the parish mission.
• Execute timely and effective written and oral communications and be highly responsive to parishioners, staff and volunteers with respect to inquiries and feedback.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality.