Director of Faith Formation

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of Faith Formation (DFF) will develop and lead an integrated faith formation program for children, adults and parish families. The DFF will have a background in religious education, will guide and oversee catechists/facilitators, and implement formation programs provided by the diocese. The Director will manage, coach, and evaluate Faith Formation staff and use effective and appropriate supervision techniques with assigned staff to maximize employee morale and effectiveness. The Director will assist parents in their role as the "first teachers of their children in the ways of faith", and as much as possible encourage and integrate them as participants and volunteers into the community. DFF is a person with organizational and management skills. The position reports to the Pastor and operates under little supervision with some latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

• Supports and upholds the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of St. Helen Catholic Church, in both your professional and personal life, by acting as a witness to Gospel values through modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church. This is done by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed.
• Sets the goals and provides direction for faith formation of the parish including intergenerational formation. Review, develop and coordinate a faith formation curriculum to provide a systematic and comprehensive program and ensure compliance with Diocesan policies.
• Oversees the sacramental preparation programs for the parish, including parent and family in the sacramental formation.
• Maintains records and endorses diocesan and parish policies including Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies for children, youth, and volunteers.
• Manages, coaches, and evaluates Faith Formation staff and supervision catechists, facilitators, and volunteers.
• Develops opportunities for personal development including participation in diocesan opportunities for continuous formation.
• Assists the Faith Formation staff in recruiting volunteer, catechists, facilitators and supports the training for catechists.
• Prepares, implements, and monitor yearly budget and calendar.
• Maintains availability throughout the week in order to serve the needs of the parish to include pastor, staff, and volunteers during and outside of normal church office hours.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of Roman Catholic teachings, parish and diocesan structure.
• Knowledge of Canon Law in regard to sacraments.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural parish serving various cultures and a wide range of age groups.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service and work effectively with staff, clergy, and laity.
• Ability to operate various word-processing software, spreadsheets, and database programs.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and utilize effective time management techniques.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Ability to effectively work with constant interruptions.
• Ability to carry out multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and implement creative solutions.
• Ability to follow instructions furnished in verbal or written format.
• Ability to proficiently communicate (writing, reading, conversing public speaking and deliver presentations, etc.). Bilingual (English/Spanish speaking) preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:
• Master's degree in Theology or Religious Education and at least 3 years of paid of supervised catechetical/teaching experience in a religious education program, OR
• Undergraduate degree in Theology or Religious Education and at least 4 years of paid of supervised catechetical/teaching experience in a religious education program, OR
• A DRE certificate through the Diocese of Austin and at least 5 years of paid of supervised catechetical/teaching experience in a religious education program.
Language:
• English (proficient in writing, reading and conversing). Spanish (proficient in writing, reading and conversing). preferred.
Catholic Requirement:
• Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.
Licenses/Certifications:
• Valid Texas driver's license.
• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.