Parish Catechetical Leader; Parish Catechetical Director; Faith Formation Director

Church of Our Saviour•Cocoa Beach, FL

12d

About The Position

The Parish Catechetical Leader, under the direction of the Pastor, leads, develops, and administers the parish’s comprehensive catechetical ministry. The role plans, implements, and evaluates formation programs for all age groups, sacramental preparation, and catechumenal processes in alignment with diocesan standards. It oversees catechetical programming, supports and forms catechists and volunteers, and coordinates communication among parish and diocesan stakeholders. The position directs a parish faith formation team that includes catechetical professionals in evangelization, adult formation, and annulment advocacy; a youth minister; and a faith formation/evangelization administrative assistant. It calls for a practicing Catholic who can work a full-time schedule, including evenings and weekends as necessary. The Diocese of Orlando identifies authenticity, respect, courage, and commitment as core values underlying employees’ work.

Requirements

Practice the Catholic faith and conduct oneself consistently with and in support of the mission and purpose of the Church.
Master’s degree in Theology, Pastoral Studies, Religious Education, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least five years of ministry experience in a parish or diocesan position; related degrees and comparable experience may be considered.
Supervisory experience is required for the Level II position.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as required.
Pass diocesan Safe Environment requirements and background screening.
Knowledge of Catholic doctrine and beliefs as presented in Second Vatican Council documents, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and other relevant ecclesial documents and publications.
Knowledge of the catechumenate process and a thorough understanding of the Rites of Christian Initiation for Adults.
Knowledge of multicultural dimensions of catechesis and ability to work effectively across cultures.
Ability to assess needs and desired outcomes and develop catechetical processes and programs.
Demonstrated leadership and team-building abilities to direct catechetical programming.
Excellent planning, organizational, and collaborative skills.
Sufficient knowledge and training in theology, liturgy, and ministry in the Roman Catholic tradition.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and ability to work effectively with others.
Computer literacy.
Ability to assess parish needs and resources, work toward established goals and objectives, and maintain current knowledge of educational and catechetical trends and practices.
Ability to work under pressure; demonstrate initiative, creativity, and sound judgment; anticipate and resolve problems; and manage multiple priorities, interruptions, and diverse personalities and cultures.
Ability to maintain accurate fiscal records, monitor budgets, and analyze statistical data.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret written materials, including journals, articles, reports, and periodicals.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to define issues, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to apply basic mathematical concepts to budgeting, reporting, and program management.
Ability to interact effectively with individuals and groups and manage appointments and meetings on parish grounds.
Ability to work a full-time schedule, including evenings and weekends as necessary.
Ability to sit and stand for long periods; reach, grasp, feel, and see up close and from afar; use basic office computer hardware and peripherals; and communicate verbally and in writing.
Ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, including occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of objects weighing up to 15 pounds; tasks may involve extended time at a keyboard or workstation.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual ability in English and Spanish or another language.

Responsibilities

Develop goals, objectives, and strategies for a comprehensive catechetical program serving adults through Pre-K, including preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation, Reconciliation, and Marriage.
Develop and implement a coherent parish curriculum and catechetical plan in conjunction with the pastor, parish staff, formation team, and advisory committees.
Direct catechetical programs supporting lifelong discipleship in accordance with Church teaching, relevant ecclesial documents, diocesan guidelines, and parish needs.
Recruit and train catechists and volunteers and ensure they meet diocesan Safe Environment and certification requirements.
Oversee and direct the formation team and collaborate with it to develop an annual schedule for programs.
Maintain sacramental records, registrations, evaluations, and other program data and information.
Evaluate parish formation programming and make recommendations to the pastor.
Research, evaluate, and recommend catechetical resources and materials.
Communicate and promote catechetical programming, best practices, and milestones through parish and other media.
Support the formation team with training, resources, and programs.
Stay current on changes and developments in diocesan policy.
Serve as a catechetics resource for the formation team, parish staff, pastor, and parish community.
Prepare an annual budget for review by the pastor and parish finance council and oversee expenditures within budget parameters.
Develop reliable statistics on parish catechetical efforts and submit required reports to the pastor, pastoral council, diocese, or others.
Attend and participate in staff meetings; attend and facilitate formation staff and committee meetings.
Attend diocesan meetings and events related to catechetical ministry or job responsibilities.
Participate in local and regional professional organizations and prioritize professional development and maintaining credentials.
Perform other job-related duties as required.