General Statement of Duties:
The DRE is responsible for the organization and administration of the religious education formation program for students of the parish from the kindergarten level through eighth grade. Fulfillment of the catechetical mission of the parish by the DRE will be carried out with supervision from the pastor and in collaboration with the Principal and Pastoral staff. The DRE ensures the religious curriculum and activities of the school conform to the expectations of the Diocese of Gary.
Qualifications:
The DRE must be living in full sacramental communion with the Catholic Church. This person must be competent in applying age appropriate catechetical methods and basic program development as well as exhibit skills in interpersonal communication, collaborative ministry and public speaking. Completion of the Protecting God’s Children program (VIRTUS) and appropriate background checks are required. A positive, welcoming attitude is essential. The DRE should always strive to live as an authentic witness of the Lord, especially when speaking with parents, students and parishioners. It is important to display professionalism, kindness, patience and a generous spirit with everyone. The DRE is a representative of the Catholic Church to those in the program/parish and therefore should always endeavor to be Christ-like in conversation, action and intention. A Bachelor Degree in Theology, Pastoral Ministry, Education or equivalent work experience required.
Responsibilities Include but are not limited to:
Primary responsibility for coordination and oversight of the parish religious education program at the elementary level and preparation for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation in addition to teaching Religion in the school for the upper grades. Is responsible for the planning and budget for all areas of Religious Education.
- Conducts annual inventory of program supplies and order of books and supplemental resources. Maintains inventory of all RE and R&E Prep resources.
- Ensures classrooms have appropriate resources (e.g., tables, chairs, pencils, etc.)
- Creates syllabi for all classes, mentoring catechists, as appropriate.
- Maintains Volunteer folders with faith formation hours, VIRTUS Training, certificates, etc.
- Coordinates catechists, aides and other volunteers (e.g., parking lot safety) for RE program
- Contacts substitutes, as appropriate, for openings/absences
- Tracks attendance at all class sessions.
- Maintains parish records for families and students in RE
- Coordinates for Reconciliation services and First Eucharist Mass
- Conducts Reconciliation and Eucharist Student/Parent meetings. Helps lead session, as appropriate
- Provides information for sacramental registries.
- Conducts youth group and young adult gatherings and events. Position Overview
- Continues growing by participating in appropriate training/ faith formation.
- Keeps open lines of communication with Pastor and other members of the Parish staff.
- Motivated, self-starter, able to multitask and manage multiple priorities. Able to work independently and in a multicultural environment.
- Able to honor and maintain confidentiality.
- Able to work and maintain positive relationships with co-workers, families, and children.
- Position entails weekdays, Sunday mornings, and other evenings (when necessary).