Director of Faith Formation

Administers the Pre-K-12th grade and OCIA for Children parish faith formation programs and works closely with the pastor to ensure these programs form disciples of Jesus Christ. Provides leadership and formation to Faith Formation staff and volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of St. Helen Catholic Church in both professional and personal life.
• Act as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Continuously grow in ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities.
• Pursue professional development in collaboration with clergy and the Diocese of Austin.
• Maintain relationships with the Pastor, parish staff, Faith Formation staff, and the diocesan office of Evangelization and Catechesis.
• Direct the implementation, ongoing management, and evaluation of parish Faith Formation programs for Children and Youth, including K-12 faith formation, OCIA Adapted for Children, youth ministry, and sacramental preparation.
• Integrate insights from current catechetical literature into program planning.
• Support the knowledge and skills of catechists through ongoing formation tools.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate catechists and support volunteers.
• Adjust program components (space, time, materials, human and physical resources) as needed.
• Obtain and order resources (textbooks, Bibles, liturgy materials, sacramental gifts, library additions) in conjunction with office staff.
• Communicate with participants, parents, catechists, and the parish at large to keep them informed of religious education efforts.
• Maintain a work schedule that maximizes availability to students, parents, and staff.
• Ensure parish and catechist compliance with Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM/Virtus) components, including:
  • Adult EIM Basic and/or Refresher for all staff and volunteers under supervision.
  • Empowering God’s Children program for First through Eighth grades.
• Oversee planning for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, in conjunction with the pastor.
• Collaborate with necessary persons for planning the Rite of Confirmation, in conjunction with the pastor.
• Prepare necessary items for OCIA Adapted for Children.
• Other duties as assigned by the Pastor.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited American university or equivalent in a foreign country.
• Two (2) years or more of related work experience preferred.
• Proficiency in English (conversing, reading, and writing).
• Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.
• Valid Texas driver’s license.
• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM/Virtus) policies throughout the employment period.

Skills

• Knowledge of the structure and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Knowledge of diocesan requirements for formation and catechesis.
• Knowledge or willingness to learn instructional methods, strategies, and curriculum differentiation.
• Skill in pacing and differentiating instruction.
• Skill in motivating and engaging students in the learning process.
• Skill in organizing and relating information in an understandable format.
• Skill in using job-appropriate technology.
• Skill in critical thinking and planning.
• Skill in collaborating with peers to enhance the work environment and support instructional planning.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism in conduct, demeanor, and work habits.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding parish matters.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and utilize effective time-management techniques.
• Ability to work effectively with staff, clergy, religious, and laity.

Working Conditions

• All employees are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church.
• Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.
• Working on weekends, evenings, and some holidays may be required.
• Exposure to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech, including Roman Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations.
• Required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.
• May be required to use a personal vehicle to drive to off-site locations.
• Travel within and outside the parish to meetings and other events may be required.