Chancellor

Archdiocese of Detroit•Detroit, MI

12d

About The Position

The Chancellor serves as a principal advisor and administrator within the Curia of the Archdiocese, ensuring effective governance, canonical compliance, and mission alignment. The Chancellor preserves the diocesan records, serves as a notary for certain acts of the Archbishop and Archdiocese, and as secretary to handle certain correspondence for the Archbishop, the Vicars General/Episcopal Vicars, and directors within the Curia.

Requirements

Advance knowledge of canon law and Church governance
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
High degree of confidentiality, integrity, and ethical judgment
Strong organizational and leadership abilities
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Collaborative, relationship-building orientation
Cultural competence and sensitivity to diversity
Digital literacy, including records management and secure communication
Masters Degree required; graduate degree in Canon Law (JCL or JCD) preferred; then Master’s in Theology, Church Administration, Civil Law may be considered
5–10 years of progressively responsible experience in Church administration, canon law, or related roles
Experience supervising staff and managing complex projects
Practicing Catholic in good standing, with demonstrated commitment to the Church’s teachings and mission
Affinity for mission-driven, not-for-profit organizations
Ability to travel locally within the Archdiocese as needed
Commitment to ongoing professional development in canon law and Church leadership
Must maintain strict confidentiality regarding all Archdiocesan information, especially sensitive or protected data

Nice To Haves

Prior work in a diocesan or parish setting preferred
Legal training or licensure is a plus

Responsibilities

Advise the Archbishop, the local Ordinaries, and Curia directors on matters of canon law, including the drafting of decrees, rescripts, precepts, and other official documents.
Prepare and review correspondence of canonical importance, including with other dioceses, the Nunciature, and the Apostolic See.
Maintain and update the collection of particular law for the Archdiocese.
Oversee the operations of the Archdiocesan Archives and Archivist, ensuring proper care of active and historical records (digital and physical).
Oversee the work of the Marriage Dispensation Office.
Oversee the work of any Vice-Chancellors in the various competencies to which they have been assigned.
Monitor compliance with church and civil law.
Coordinate and record the activities of the College of Consultors, Archdiocesan Finance Council, Presbyteral Council, and Archdiocesan Pastoral Council.
Liaison with Associations of Christ’s Faithful, advising on governance and interaction with the Curia
Safeguard confidentiality and data protection standards.
Manage and retain the acts of the Diocesan Curia as required by law.
Prepare internal and external correspondence as requested by the Archbishop or Curia.
Coordinate the Quinquennial Report and other major writing projects in collaboration with the Communications Department.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Archbishop or Moderator of the Curia.