Director of Music Ministry

Diocese of Des Moines • Adel, IA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

St. John’s Catholic Church in Adel, Iowa, is seeking a Director of Music Ministry to build a vibrant ministry that brings people together, develops their God-given gifts, and leads the community more deeply into prayer and worship. This role views music as a ministry of prayer and service, aiming to develop a prayerful, singing assembly through example, celebration, preparation, evaluation, education, and personal ministry. The Director will use musical leadership and pastoral care to transform liturgical celebrations into encounters with Christ, drawing parishioners of all ages into deeper worship and participation through song. While musical excellence is important, the primary focus is on helping the Church pray. The Director will also provide pastoral care, instruction, organization, encouragement, and enablement to cantors, accompanists, choir members, instrumentalists, and others who contribute their gifts. The goal is to build upon the existing gifts of parishioners and help them discover new ones. St. John's is a growing parish of over 500 Catholic households located west of the Des Moines metro area, offering a welcoming community with access to urban amenities.

Requirements

• Practicing Catholic with knowledge of liturgy and liturgical music.
• A pastoral approach to ministry, with a genuine desire to serve Christ and His Church through the gifts of music.
• Proactive and effective communicator who takes initiative to share information, establish clear expectations, follow through on commitments, and address questions or concerns in a timely and respectful manner.
• Personal or professional experience in liturgical music leadership.
• Ability to read music and proficiency in at least one performance area (keyboard, choral, voice, instrument, etc.).
• Skilled in working with choirs, vocalists, and instrumentalists.
• Ability to use technology effectively in support of liturgical music ministry, including music and scheduling software, digital resources, and audio/visual equipment; initiative to troubleshoot basic issues, learn new systems, and seek assistance when needed.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills, marked by patience, enthusiasm, energy, and kindness.
• Working knowledge of Catholic music publications.

Nice To Haves

• Contagious in faith and joy
• A natural recruiter of talent and participation
• Energetic, inspiring, and collaborative
• Flexible in adapting to parish needs
• Humble in service to Christ and His Church

Responsibilities

• Develop a vision for St. John’s music program by collaborating with the Pastor, Worship and Spirituality Committee, Parish Council, and Finance Council.
• Recruit, nurture, and inspire parishioners of all ages —youth and adults—to share their musical gifts as vocalists, instrumentalists, and technical volunteers.
• Cultivate a culture in which music ministers understand their service as a ministry of prayer, hospitality, and participation in the Church’s worship.
• Provide pastoral encouragement, formation, and constructive feedback to music ministers, recognizing that each person’s gifts and experience are unique.
• Foster a prayerful, singing assembly by choosing and leading music that supports the liturgical action, reflects the Church’s worship, and invites the congregation into meaningful participation.
• Build a sustainable program that will thrive through future pastoral leadership transitions.
• Prepare schedules, lead rehearsals, and mentor musicians at all skill levels, helping them grow in confidence and ability.
• Plan and coordinate music for all services as well as special services such as weddings, funerals, and parish events.
• Collaborate with parish staff and Worship and Spirituality Committee to ensure appropriate music for all sacramental celebrations.
• Support faith formation by coordinating with the Director of Faith Formation and the Youth Minister to enhance the faith experience of children and youth.
• Manage use and maintenance of instruments (organ, piano, etc.) as well as sound and video systems.
• Develop and oversee the ministry budget and coordinate with the Business Manager on payroll processes.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and copyright requirements.
• Participate actively in staff meetings and help create a positive, collaborative team environment with the pastor, staff, parishioners, and volunteers.
• Participate regularly in the sacramental and worship life of St. John’s and embrace the opportunity to serve alongside fellow parishioners as a member of the parish community.
• Pursue ongoing growth through available continuing education opportunities (workshops, online programs, etc.).

Benefits

• Full-time w/benefits
• flexible hours
• Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualification with a range of $40,000 - $45,000 annually for a full time schedule.
• Part time arrangements may be considered for exceptional candidates.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed