Director of Religious Education; DRE and Safe Environment

Position Summary

The Director of Religious Education (DRE) is responsible for the leadership, administration, and development of the parish’s religious education programs. This includes faith formation for children, youth, adults and families, preparation for the Sacraments, and support of volunteer catechists, in accordance with the teachings and mission of the Roman Catholic Church. Administration and coordination of Safe Environment/Virtus.

• Plan, implement, and oversee parish religious education programs for youth through grades K-8 and oversee the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).
• Coordinate Sacramental preparation programs for First Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation in collaboration with clergy and parish staff.
• Ensure all catechetical programs align with diocesan guidelines and Church doctrine.
• Foster a welcoming, evangelizing environment that supports the spiritual growth of children, youth, adults and families.

• Recruit, train, support, and supervise volunteer catechists.
• Provide ongoing catechist formation and spiritual development opportunities.
• Conduct regular meetings and evaluations of catechists.
• Ensure compliance with diocesan Safe Environment policies.

• Develop and manage program budgets and educational resources.
• Maintain accurate records for enrollment, attendance, Sacraments, and compliance requirements.
• Communicate effectively with parents, parish staff, clergy, and the wider parish community.
• Prepare schedules, calendars, and program materials.

• Collaborate with the pastor, parish staff, and parish ministries.
• Participate in parish liturgies, meetings, and events as required.
• Represent the parish at diocesan meetings, workshops, and continuing education programs.

• Practicing Roman Catholic in good standing with a strong commitment to Church teachings.
• Bachelor’s degree in theology, religious education, pastoral ministry, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Knowledge of Catholic doctrine, catechetical methods, and child/youth faith formation.
• Experience in parish ministry, religious education, or teaching.
• Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.

• Master’s degree in theology, religious education, or pastoral ministry.
• Diocesan catechetical certification or willingness to obtain.
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers.
• Three to Five years of experience as a DRE.

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, and engage with children and adults during programs.
• Work Schedule:
  
  Twenty-Five (25) hours per week, Monday through Friday and Sunday’s during religious education programs (September through May). Occasional evening work.

• Faith-filled leadership
• Pastoral sensitivity
• Organizational and administrative skills
• Collaboration and communication
• Commitment to lifelong faith formation