Parish Secretary

Parish Secretary

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church

Reports To: Pastor
Employment Status: Part-Time, 25–30 hours per week
Classification: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Parish Secretary provides reception and administrative support for Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, creating a welcoming first impression for parishioners, visitors, and others who contact the parish in person, by telephone, or electronically. This position facilitates communication among parish staff, parishioners, and vendors; maintains parish records; and supports parish programs and ministries, including Senior Ministry, OCIA, Music Ministry, Bereavement Ministry, Mass prayers, and Faith Formation.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Greet parishioners and visitors, determine their needs, and direct them to the appropriate staff member or ministry. Provide accurate information about Mass times, parish events, office hours, and available services.
• Answer telephone calls, take accurate messages, respond to emails and routine inquiries promptly, and route correspondence appropriately. Monitor the general parish inbox and administer the telephone system, including holiday schedules and website-based phone settings.
• Prepare correspondence, mailings, copies, door signs, holiday handouts, and other parish materials. Distribute mail, maintain files, monitor office supplies, and keep the office and reception area organized and welcoming.
• Assist with appointments, parish calendars, and meeting space coordination.
• Register parishioners and maintain accurate parish databases, contact information, and assigned records.
• Receive and route requests for sacramental preparation and pastoral assistance. Prepare annual First Communion and Confirmation certificates and record the sacraments according to parish procedures.
• Assign Mass intentions and maintain Mass intention records. Adapt preprinted Prayers of the Faithful to meet the needs of daily worship.
• Coordinate funeral Mass planning, memorial Masses, and related recordkeeping. Coordinate sick calls and communication with homebound parishioners, including bulletin distribution, Eucharistic minister coordination, and general telephone outreach.
• Provide administrative support to Senior Ministry, OCIA, Music Ministry, Faith Formation, Bereavement Ministry, and other parish programs and services.
• Coordinate the parish Safe Environment Program in accordance with diocesan procedures.
• Oversee key and audiovisual equipment distribution and provide media and technology support as assigned.
• Receive payments or donations when assigned and follow established procedures for documenting and safeguarding funds.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial information, parishioner records, and sensitive pastoral matters. Follow parish visitor procedures and promptly report safety concerns to the appropriate staff member.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Pastor or Administrative Assistant.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience in reception, customer service, administrative support, or related Catholic Church work.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, analytical and critical thinking skills, and sound judgment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, spreadsheet applications, email, databases, and basic office equipment. Ability to use digital media and technology platforms and learn new software and tools.
• Accuracy, attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Self-motivation, a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, flexibility, and the ability to work collaboratively.
• Ability to communicate respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds, respond calmly to sensitive situations, and maintain confidentiality.
• Willingness to support the mission, teachings, and values of the Catholic Church.

Preferred Qualifications

• College degree with a focus on business.
• Experience in a parish, school, or nonprofit office.
• Knowledge of Catholic parish life, teachings, terminology, and sacramental practices.
• Experience with parish databases or scheduling software.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in a parish office and includes computer use, telephone communication, and frequent interaction with the public. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required for parish activities.

Employment Requirements

Employment is contingent upon completion of required background screening and diocesan safe-environment training. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The Diocese does not provide visa sponsorship. Upon hire, employees must present required Form I-9 documentation.

Interested candidates, please submit a cover letter, resume and 4 professional references to apply@charlestondiocese.org