Director of Faith Formation

Description

The Director of Faith Formation (DFF) is a member of the parish staff with professional preparation for, and sensitivity to, the catechetical, and spiritual formation needs of the children. This ministry implements the vision of the Pastor with regard to the needs of the young people of the parish and in compliance with Diocesan and Parish norms and practices. The DFF provides leadership to assist the parish community in building a solid foundation of catechetical ministry.  This position reports directly to the Pastor.  

Ministerial Character

The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the parish of St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church which the Bishop has entrusted to him. He makes Christ’s mission present and enduring in the parish. In order to fulfill his mission, the Pastor employs suitable, chosen collaborators (clerics, religious, or lay people). He shares with them his mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Positions employed at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church help to extend the ministry of the Pastor in particular ways as outlined in the job description. Therefore, the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Pastor in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the Church.

Essential Job Duties: 

• As an integral part of your ministry for the Church as carried out in this position, support and uphold and act as a witness to the teachings of the Catholic Church and the mission of St. Martin de Porres in both your professional and personal life.
• Work with the Pastor to prepare a yearly master calendar for Faith Formation for the coming year. 
• Responsible for coordinating, planning and implementation of Faith Formation activities for grade 1-12th, special need students, and the students in Order of Christian Initiation for Children as needed. 
• Invites (recruits), motivates, evaluates, and promotes faith formation of catechists, youth & adult leaders, and volunteers. 
• Host training for catechists using resources and program from the Catechetical Institute at Franciscan University.
• Responsible for the records of catechists and participants in program areas (attendance, catechist training and development, EIM, etc).
• Be present during Faith Formation sessions and programs. Assures adequate coverage and supervision, addressing any classroom problems that may arise.
• Coordinate and organize para-liturgical celebrations (Rosary, Stations of the Cross, and Holy Hours) for students during the school year as needed.
• Coordinate with pastor and others (including Confirmation and OCIA coordinators) for sacramental liturgy for First Confession, First Communion, and Confirmation. 
• Organize and collaborate with others for High School students to attend DCYC, Summer Mission, (if needed).
• Manage and operate within the program budget, coordinating with the Parish Business Manager and Pastor. 
• Attend diocesan, deanery, and parish Pastoral Council meetings as requested. 

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the structure and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Require excellent organization skills.
• Participate in ongoing formation and educational opportunities to be faithful to the teaching of the Catholic Church in catechetical ministry.
• Ability to work collaboratively and professionally with catechists, families, parents, and other parish ministers in the faith community. 
• Proficient computer skills. Literacy in Microsoft Office Suite, database, and other commonly used programs. 
• Adhere to the parish Employee Handbook and Standards of Conduct. 
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion as a rule.

Expected Work Hours:

This is a full time position, requiring flexibility and working on weekends and some evenings.  

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be a  practicing Roman Catholic by attending Holy Mass weekly and accept all teachings of the Catholic Church. 
• Prefer Bachelors/Master degree in theology or 30 hours of Theology, and/or a certificate in ministry or theology from a Catholic institute of higher learning but will consider experience in lieu of degree.
• Proficient in conversing, reading, and writing in English. Proficient in Spanish is preferred but not required. 
• Have valid Texas Driver license. 
• Must be compliant with the diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.