Director of Religious Education

The Director of Faith Formation & Youth Ministry is a practicing Catholic professional called to pray, lead, love, and teach the Catholic faith. This position directs the parish religious education program for grades 1–10, coordinates comprehensive sacramental preparation, and spearheads dynamic youth and young adult ministry in alignment with diocesan policies and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) frameworks.

Our parish community actively welcomes qualified candidates from outside the immediate area who are open to relocating. The Director oversees catechist recruitment and development, ensures total Safe Environment (VIRTUS) compliance, manages departmental budgets, and builds a vibrant Youth Leadership Team to integrate young people into the broader life and worship of the parish.

Primary Responsibilities

Religious Education & Sacramental Preparation

• Direct and administer the weekly Wednesday evening Religious Education program (grades 1–10) from September through May.
• Coordinate all aspects of sacramental preparation programs, including First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation, working closely with parents, candidates, and sponsors.
• Select, evaluate, and implement approved diocesan norms, and USCCB guidelines.
• Maintain accurate sacramental and enrollment records in coordination with the parish office.

Youth & Young Adult Ministry

• Design, implement, and lead comprehensive pastoral ministry, fellowship, and outreach for children, teens, and young adults (Pre-K through early adulthood).
• Form, train, and mentor a peer-led Youth Leadership Team to foster youth ownership and leadership in parish activities, liturgies, and service initiatives.
• Organize retreats, service immersion projects, social gatherings, and conferences (e.g., NCYC, diocesan youth rallies, Steubenville conferences).
• Facilitate targeted outreach, small faith communities, and topical gatherings for young adults.

Leadership, Recruitment & Volunteer Development

• Recruit, screen, onboard, and mentor volunteer catechists, small-group leaders, and youth ministry aides.
• Provide continuous theological formation, classroom management guidance, and pastoral support to catechists and volunteers.
• Maintain full parish compliance with Diocesan Safe Environment protocols, including VIRTUS training, background checks, and annual audit tracking for all department volunteers.

Administration & Collaboration

• Develop and manage the annual Faith Formation and Youth Ministry departmental budget.
• Collaborate regularly with the Pastor, parish staff, school leadership (if applicable), and parish pastoral/finance councils.
• Communicate effectively and consistently with parents, families, and parishioners through parish bulletins, website, emails, phone calls, and social media platforms.
• Participate in regular staff meetings, diocesan formation gatherings, and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications & Competencies

• Faith Commitment: Practicing Roman Catholic in full communion with the Catholic Church, living in alignment with Catholic moral teaching, with an authentic love for Jesus Christ and His Church.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Pastoral Ministry, Catechetics, or a closely related fields are preferred, but not necessary.
• Experience: 2–4 years of demonstrated leadership experience in parish catechesis, youth ministry, or religious education program administration.
• Safe Environment: We will provide training in VIRTUS/Protecting God’s Children programs and an unwavering commitment to child protection standards .
• Relocation & Integration: Candidates currently outside the region who are enthusiastic about relocating and making our parish community their spiritual and professional home are strongly encouraged to apply. Possible relocation assistance.
• Skills: Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and public speaking abilities; proficiency in modern digital communication, social media, and parish database/office software.