The Director of Religious Education and Children’s Ministry is a member of the pastoral team responsible for the catechetical programs (including Christian formation, Religious Education and Sacramental preparation) designed to lead children and young adults from pre-school through high school in the faith community to maturity of faith through instruction and formation in the Christian life.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

Catechetical Formation

1. Assesses program needs and then sets goals and objectives for the program through collaboration with the pastor and the Parish Council.

2. Recruits and trains catechists and aides for program.
3. Develops an annual calendar of catechetical formation schedule and events.
4. Schedules religious education classes and assigns catechists and rooms.
5. Develops relationships with support volunteers to serve as substitute teachers or help with program needs.
6. Reviews and evaluates the curriculum for each grade level for scope, content, age appropriateness, etc.
7. Oversees registration process for religious education classes.  Follows up, as necessary.
8. Develops education plan for each student enrolled in religious education.
9. Consults with Safe Environment Coordinator at the parish concerning any required programs for catechists/volunteers.
10. Follows up with parents regarding patterns of absenteeism from religious education classes.

Sacramental Preparation Programs

1. Coordinates and works with youth and their families in preparing for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, including planning and conducting the meetings with parents.

2. Develops the scope and sequence of sacramental program preparation with input and approval of pastor.
3. Develops the scope and sequence of Confirmation meetings, retreats, service opportunities, communications, and rites with input and approval of pastor.  Schedules Confirmation dates with Bishop’s representative.
4. Plans and coordinates First Communion retreats.
5. Oversees the organization and implementation of post-sacrament receptions with the Hospitality Committee.

Performs various Administrative duties as expected in the role of Director of Religious Education.

Miscellaneous

1. Collaborates as needed with parish staff members responsible for Liturgy, Adult Education,OCIA (formerly RCIA), and Parish Council.
2. Supports various parish outreach projects as needed.
3. Performs other duties as assigned by the Pastor.