Director of Religious Education (PT), St. Michael Parish, Bedford, MA

The role of Director of Religious Education in the Church focuses on creating an environment, and programs designed to: 1) help individuals grow and develop in their knowledge of the love of God and in their capacity to respond to the love and will of God, 2) create a sense of Christian Community where the knowledge of God and response to God’s love can be achieved most effectively, and 3) foster a sense of faith-filled service in responding to the needs of the community, and in a special way, to the needs of those deemed least-favored within the community. This is a part time position for 20 hours a week, in-person at the parish office in Bedford.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop action plan with the Pastor for the general direction of the parish religious education programs for Grades 1-9 (kindergarten optional)
• Create and maintain dynamic relationships with parents to inspire a culture of ongoing formation at home, empower parents as the primary catechists of their children, and maintain open lines of communication to obtain program feedback and provide ongoing support.
• Assess the efficacy of current curricula for all grade levels and suggest changes where appropriate.
• The ideal candidate will have robust knowledge of the current curricular landscape and will create a culture of continuous improvement to ensure the use of innovative, effective, and orthodox resources that promote lifelong missionary discipleship. Implement programs under Pastor’s direction and suggest changes/improvements where necessary.
• Keep the Pastor and/or the Pastoral Staff informed of programs, concerns, and changes through regularly scheduled meetings.
• Keep the Pastor informed about the development (s) of the program and keep him acquainted with new materials, direction, and trends in religious education and faith formation.
• Recruit, train, and empower volunteer catechists and religious education staff in effective kerygmatic evangelization and catechesis. Provide regular training opportunities to inspire adult disciples who are prepared to witness to their relationship with Christ and His Church in the religious education classroom and beyond. Provides oversight and coordination for First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation programs/retreats that inspire faithful participation in the sacramental life of the Church.
• Directs the organization and maintenance of the parish religious education office to ensure effective record keeping of programs, participants, and outcomes.
• Recommends educational materials such as textbooks, audio/video content, and other materials necessary for equipping well-formed disciples enlivened by a continuing encounter with Jesus Christ.
• Ensure all parish and Archdiocesan Religious Education polices and objectives are met.
• Ability to work Sundays from October through April each year.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Has a love for Jesus Christ and His Church and is able to express that love and relationship through discussion with others
• Must have a comprehensive knowledge of Catholic Church teachings
• Practicing Roman Catholic in good standing
• Minimum of five years’ experience in parish faith formation as a Catechist
• Bachelor’s degree required in theology, ministry or related field (MA preferred – will consider those candidates with appropriate experience)
• Supervisory experience
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Excellent computer skills including proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to lift/carry up to 35 pounds
• Ability to stand for long periods of time

To apply, please send resume and cover letter to [email protected].