Job Summary

The Director of Religious Education (DRE) works in collaboration with the pastor and parish staff and is responsible for the development of religious education programs and ministries in accordance with the goals and objectives established by the Pastor and Diocese of Austin guide lines. The position reports to the Pastor and operates with latitude for the use of independent judgment and initiative. Currently, this includes developing curricula, training, staffing of necessary classes, sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, and catechist formation. This individual will be expected to demonstrate good public relations skills, as well as teaching skills.

Ministerial Character

The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity at St. Philip Catholic Mission, Texas, 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. Philip 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 Duties

• An integral part of your ministry for the Church as carried out in this position, support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of the parish in both your professional and personal life.
• Act as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Continuously grow in your ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed.
• Ensure compliance with Diocese of Austin policies.
• Administer the Religious Education Program to include the program budget, volunteer schedules, record keeping, teaching materials, supplies, communication with parishioners, keeping office hours consistent with the educational programs, supervision of support personnel, and meetings with parents.
• Develop and implement all catechetical programs for children, youth, and adults, including sacramental preparation: Sacrament of Reconciliation, First Communion, Coordination of Confirmation with St. Louis.
• Develop and implement ongoing education/formation for Parish Catechists to promote effective catechesis.
• Recruit, train, and provide support for Faith Formation volunteers.
• Work with parish staff and the pastor to ensure the accuracy of sacramental record keeping.
• Participate in parish staff and diocesan meetings and trainings.
• Maintain a work schedule that maximizes availability to staff and parishioners.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to proficiently communicate in English and Spanish (conversing, reading, and writing).
• Knowledge of structure and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Knowledge of ministry of catechesis; child, adolescent, and adult faith and intellectual development.
• Knowledge of the methods of catechesis outlined in the National Directory for Catechesis.
• Skill in communicating with diverse audiences both oral and written.
• Ability to operate various word-processing software, spreadsheets, and database programs.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Parish staff, clergy, peers, and laity.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service to parishioners and work effectively with staff, clergy and laity.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, carry out multiple tasks, meet deadlines and utilize effective time management techniques.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Ability to follow instructions furnished in verbal or written format.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Trainings:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited American college or university with some coursework in theology, religious education, pastoral ministry, or a related field is preferred.

Experience:

• Three (3) years of experience in Religious Education.

Language:

• Bilingual English-Spanish preferred.

Catholic Requirement:

• Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.

Licenses/Certifications:

• DRE Certification or willing to be in progress
• Valid Texas driver's license.
• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies through the employment period.

Working Conditions

• All employees of the parish are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church.
• The parish is an at-will employer.
• All buildings and vehicles owned by the parish are tobacco-free.
• Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.
• Working on weekends, evenings and some holidays may be required.
• Will be exposed to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech including Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations.
• Must adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.
• May be required to use personal or parish vehicles to drive to parishes or other off-site locations.
• Traveling within and outside the parish to meetings and other events may be required, and travel may include overnight lodging.