Director of Religious Education (Elementary)

Job Description
The Director of Religious Education (DRE) will lead the faith formation and sacraments for elementary-aged parishioners (Pre-K through Grade 5 ~ 200 children) and families of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. DRE will work in collaboration with St. Thomas Faith Formation Team: Middle School Faith Formation Coordinator, Director of Youth/Young Adult Ministry, Director of Adult Faith Formation and part time Administrative Assistant.

Skills & Competencies
Ability to lead and collaborate with parish staff, clergy and volunteers
Strong communication, organization and administrative skills
Experience in curriculum development and faith formation program management

Personal Attributes
A missionary disciple with a heart for evangelization and love for serving the Church
A servant leader who fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment
A self-motivated individual who is organized, detail-oriented and adaptable
A team player with a collaborative spirit, yet comfortable working autonomously

Responsibilities
Recruit, support and provide training for: grade-level coordinators (7), catechists (~20), RE aides (~20), administrative volunteers (3-4), nursery coordinator and volunteers (~10), children's liturgy of the word leaders (6) and helpers (6), Scripture Safari summer VBS volunteers (~50) and subs for each ministry (~10-15)
Ensure substitute coverage each week for all of the above ministries
Select/update curriculum and materials based on the USCCB and Diocese of Joliet guidelines
Collaborate with grade-level coordinators to provide engaging and consistent lesson plans to children in grades Pre-K through Grade 5 Religious Education
Organize and implement Religious Education class schedule and calendar of events
Oversee Religious Education classes on Saturday mornings (8:30-9:45 a.m.) and Tuesdays (4:30-5:45 p.m.)
Oversee the sacramental preparation of all parish young people for First Holy Communion and First Reconciliation and involve parents through organized meetings, activities and prayer services
Plan and coordinate grade-level masses as well as sacramental liturgies for First Reconciliation and First Communion

Diocese Responsibilities
Complete Franciscan at Home trainings each year (6 hours)
Attend monthly West DuPage Deanery Meetings, diocese meetings at the Blanchette Center, annual DRE Retreat, annual Catechist Evening of Formation and any other diocesan training required
Ensure all volunteers are compliant with VIRTUS and evolving diocese requirements
Ensure all catechists complete (6) hours of faith formation each year (3 hours required Franciscan Training)

Parish Responsibilities
Coordinate Children's Liturgy of the Word
Coordinate and oversee the Christmas Eve Pageant during Mass
Oversee Scripture Safari Summer VBS
Staff Liaison to Nursery Coordinator
Coordinate parish-wide family faith activities throughout the year
Serve on the Faith Formation Commission (meets Wednesday evenings bimonthly)