Faith Formation Director

Full Time, Housing Provided, Health Insurance, 401k

OBJECTIVE:

The Faith Formation Director (FFD) assumes primary responsibility for educating the parishioners, primarily the children, as disciples of Jesus Christ in the Roman Catholic faith for the three partnered parishes of Eastern Clearfield County. These efforts will be in concert with the Church's principle catechetical documents: the General Directory for Catechesis and the National Directory for Catechesis, along with the national document for the formation of youth: Renewing the Vision and the formation program specified by the Diocese of Erie.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Message A passion for living the Roman Catholic faith in one's own life and desires to share that passion for the tradition and heritage of the Church. Implements the pastor's vision for expanding the knowledge and practice of the Catholic faith for all parishioners, especially our children. Initiates, organizes, and evaluates faith formation programs that respond to the needs of all parishioners across the life-span in concert with sound educational and research principles and the teachings of the Church. Is responsible for the appropriate use of texts, audiovisuals etc. in catechetical programs so that all resources meet standards set by sound educational practices and the Diocesan Office of Faith Formation. Assists the clergy in providing faith formation opportunities for the adults of the parish through retreats, small groups, bible studies, or other classes. Community Works to empower the parishioners to see themselves as evangelizers to one another and the world. Actively promotes the idea that faith is not a private reality but a community gift and that it must be shared if it is to grow and have life. Creates opportunities for youth to gather in social settings to better establish a sense of belonging and community. Administration Supervises and evaluates the operation of the faith formation program, personnel, activities and facilities. Recruits, trains, and supports volunteer catechists. Meets regularly with the pastor or his designee to discuss matters concerning the catechetical program. Develop a faith formation program for children that takes into account the distances children need to be transported for the program and the desire to keep families connected with their parish church. Ex officio member of Pastoral Council and the Evangelization Committee to work collaboratively with parishioner leadership. Recruits other professional support for the catechetical program where expertise is required. Responsible for the partnered parishes compliance with the Diocese of Erie Child Protection policies including maintenance of the records. Maintains communication with parents, parish organizations, the local community, especially the public school, in matters pertaining to the Faith Formation of children. Maintain the program calendar, roster, and other data for participants. Works with the secretary to maintain accurate parish census records. Structure sacramental preparation lessons. Complies with all of the policies contained in the Catholic Parishes of Eastern Clearfield County Employee Handbook and applicable Diocese of Erie Faith Formation and youth policies. Prepares a budget for the faith formation program. Responsible for appropriate accountability procedures. Worship Leads the catechists in the development of appropriate prayer for all students of catechetical age. Leads all children/youth of catechetical age to an appreciation of the Eucharist as the center of Catholic life. Educates staff and students in the celebration of the great feasts of the Church's liturgical year. Educates parents to recognize their responsibility as the head of the domestic church and educates them in their responsibility to raise their children in the practice of the faith. Service Develops appropriate service opportunities for all students. Works with adults of the parishes to keep the parishes informed of international, national, and local issues related to Christian service. Supports the development of a sound understanding of Catholic Social Teaching which includes issues of both charity and justice. Parish Staff Performs all jobs in a time efficient manner, multitasking if possible. Performs these duties by following the procedures specified by the Pastor. Maintains confidentiality of all parishioner records which includes financial contribution information. Complies with all parish policies as listed in the Employee Handbook and applicable Diocese of Erie policies. Participates in any staff meeting including meetings organized for staff faith development (retreat). Completes any other tasks as instructed by the Pastor to fulfill Section I above.

TIME COMMITMENT:

Sunday (morning and evening) and weekday evenings as determined to bring the children together for education and service opportunities and to provide faith opportunities for the adults. Available during some office hours especially for collaboration and staff meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's Degree in Faith Formation, Religious Education or related field. (Master's Preferred)

COMPETENCIES:

Excellent communication skills including speaking and writing, especially with youth of all ages. Good computer skills including Microsoft Office, website design, social media, and other means of electronic communication. Excellent relational skills with people of all ages. Willing and able to work in a team environment. Able to lead and facilitate groups to accomplish common goals.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Capable of moving tables and chairs for programs.