Director of Extern and International Priest

Archdiocese of Chicago•Chicago, IL

1d•$97,136 - $123,849

About The Position

The Director for Extern and International Priests is responsible for timely and accurate vetting and processing of all diocesan extern priests before priestly faculties are granted or an assignment is made in the Archdiocese of Chicago. This includes priests serving temporarily, long term, or through incardination (permanent transfer to the Archdiocese), when desired and deemed appropriate. The Director works with the Office for Religious and the Executive Secretary of the Priests’ Placement Board to assess candidates’ suitability for ministry and ability to fulfill the requirements of intended roles. The position coordinates with offices and officials involved in the care and support of priests, including the Office of the Archbishop, the Office for Legal Services, the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth, Vicars for Priests, the Chancellor, and the Judicial Vicar. The Director also coordinates onboarding for international priests and develops orientation and inculturation programs to help them adjust to American ecclesiastical and civil culture.

Requirements

Familiarity with the Catholic Church and a passion to work therein.
Oral and written proficiency in English and Spanish.
Bachelor’s degree required.
Ability to handle confidential data discreetly.
3 to 5 years of experience in the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to multitask and meet deadlines in a timely manner.
Proficiency with database management software and Microsoft Office.
Strong organizational and detail-oriented skills.
Ability to work well with individuals at all levels and openness to other cultures.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree strongly preferred.
Polish language proficiency is a plus.

Responsibilities

Communicate with bishops, chancellors, and leaders of religious communities when screening and interviewing candidates to determine eligibility for ministry in the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Interview applicants to assess suitability for ministerial assignment and confirm they meet the Archdiocese’s requirements for faculties; ensure compliance files are completed accurately.
Provide input and recommendations to the Executive Secretary of the Priests’ Placement Board regarding faculties for priests seeking assignments.
Coordinate onboarding of international priests and develop the International Priests Orientation Program, including an inculturation and acculturation program, best practices seminar, and parish orientation program.
Serve as liaison for priests in the incardination process by collecting required documentation, monitoring files, and communicating decisions at each phase to other offices.
Perform other duties as assigned.