Religious Education

About the role

The Religious Education Coordinator for Elementary School in Spanish will administer programming and events in conjunction with the goals and objectives as determined by the pastor or his representative. The position reports to the Director of Faith Formation and operates under some supervision with latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate evangelization and formation programs
• Provide spiritual and professional formation for catechists and volunteers
• Work closely with the pastor and Saint William staff to increase parish devotions and discipleship
• Foster the full implementation of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) for children
• Coordinate the outreach and evangelization of children, youth and their parents who live within the parish boundaries by welcoming and encouraging, dialoging, and discerning with interested inquirers into a well-developed and responsive ministry of formation that leads to the sacraments of initiation and full Catholic life
• Provide suitable formation for elementary children, grades K-5th, by using approved texts by the Diocese of Austin, and assure that all print and video materials, and supporting resources are faithful to the teachings of the Church and developmentally appropriate
• Form and direct catechists in the various special roles required for Christian initiation and form the parish community by fostering the catechesis concerning the ministry of Christian initiation and its role in it by being thoroughly familiar with the vision, structure, goals and methods of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
• Oversee the recruitment of catechists and provide continuity and support and assure that the catechists and substitute catechists provide sound catechesis for children and their parents
• Ensure that resources and support are provided for parents who choose to form their children in the home
• Collaborate with parents of children with special needs so that the child is welcomed, formed and actively participates in the life of the Church
• Ensure that the classes have adequate coverage by enlisting the support of catechists and substitute catechists
• See that hall monitors are in place to support the safety of children and assure that all adhere to ratios and safety measures as described in the Ethics and Integrity in Ministry Policies
• Minister by being culturally sensitive and by taking an active approach to communicate and provide materials in both English and Spanish for parents when needed
• Execute working knowledge of canonical and sacramental policies and procedures that affect First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion and assure children are properly disposed to receive the sacraments with reverence and devotion
• Provide on-going formation for the parents of children who will receive sacraments
• Collaborate with the faith formation staff, liturgists and musicians in preparing the First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion Masses
• Coordinate Vacation Bible School and other events throughout the year for elementary children and their families
• Participate in the registration process for Faith Formation programs
• Provide required record keeping and correspondence regarding the recording of sacramental records and faith formation programs, as well as maintaining accurate files on all children involved in the faith formation program
• Prepare, submit, and administer a proposed budget each year in conjunction with the Director of Accounting and maintain accurate financial records as required by parish policy
• Ensure that all ministry positions within their supervision are Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) compliant and provide accurate and updated data of EIM compliant adults
• Attend, participate, and prepare for staff meetings, staff retreats and events
• Seek to improve personal skills and abilities through formation and manage time by being self-motivated, taking initiative and managing their time
• Participate in the local and national church, as well as professional organizations as budget and time allow with priority being given to ministry at Saint William
• Pray for 30 minutes a day

Qualifications

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a highly positive disposition and genuine willingness to serve others with joy and love
• Knowledge of Roman Catholic teachings, parish, and diocesan structure
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural parish serving various cultures and a wide range of age groups
• Ability to provide exceptional communication and work effectively with staff, clergy, and laity
• Ability to build authentic relationships with adults rooted in Christ
• Ability to work independently and as a team player
• 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 carry out multiple tasks, deadlines, and to implement creative solutions
• Ability to follow instructions furnished in verbal or written format

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED acceptable to Texas Education Agency
• Two (2) years of related full time wage earning experience
• English: proficient in conversing, reading, and writing
• Spanish: proficient in conversing, reading, and writing (required)
• 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) policies throughout the employment period