DIRECTOR OF DISCIPLESHIP FORMATION
"The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to answer the weary a word that
will waken them. Morning after morning he wakens my ear to hear as disciples do" (Isa 50:4).

Identifying Information

• Status: Full time.
• Reports to: Moderator/One Pastor

PRIMARY FUNCTION OF THIS POSITION
Professional who oversees all aspects of disciple formation in the Family, with emphasis on encounter, grow, and witness. (See Unleash the Gospel, Guidepost 9); gives direction and vision for catechesis in the parish within the age groups (children, youth, young adult, and adult faith formation), engaging parents as the primary educators of their children; coordinates sacramental preparation programs; where applicable works collaboratively with Catholic school principal and staff regarding catechetical programs in the Catholic schools; acts as a resource for parish programs in the area of catechesis. Works closely with the Director of Engagement and Director of Family Ministries, helping to move individuals and families from the "encounter" stages of evangelization into the "grow" and "witness" phases of discipleship formation. Attention should be given to sensitivity to cultural diversity.

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS (KRAs)
Leadership

• Identify, recruit and provide on-going formation for catechists and other volunteers.
• Assist the school faculty in the preparation of creative, spirit-filled liturgies, sacramental celebrations, and prayer experiences.
• May serve on the Family Leadership Team.
• Supervises Coordinators.

Programs and Activities

• Integrate the principal tasks of catechesis into a total parish catechetical program. These include: to promote knowledge of the faith; to provide liturgical education; to support moral formation; to foster prayer; to educate for community life; and to prepare members of our faith communities to be open to the missionary dimension of our faith.
• Research appropriate models to address discipleship growth needs in the parish.
• Oversee development and implementation of curriculum; develop, select, and instruct others in use of texts and resources.
• Supervise First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation.
• Supervise Youth Ministry programming and initiatives.
• Supervise young adult and adult formation ministry.
• Implement and support small groups that nurture discipleship formation.
• Develop and supervise other faith formation opportunities (for example, Vacation Bible School).

Catechist Formation

• Teach adults; motivate and train others to teach.
• Recruit catechists, discerning and calling forth their gifts and talents; train and supervise catechists for certification according to diocesan policy and procedures, including ensuring adherence to all Safe Environments policies and procedures.
• Facilitate and monitor catechetical certification of school faculty and catechists.
• Facilitate development of a faith community among catechists; devise appropriate procedures and tools for evaluating programs and personnel.

Administration and Budget Management

• Articulate effective administrative policies and procedures.
• Identify problems and manage conflicts.
• Plan, organize, and manage time according to priorities and responsibilities.
• Draft catechetical budget and monitor the use of funds.
• Provide strategic direction to the above ministries.

QUALIFICATIONS
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities (SKAs)

• Understand the proper use of catechesis within the Church's mission of evangelization.
• Have knowledge and understanding of catechetical principles.
• Understand Catholic doctrine and beliefs as presented in the Documents of Vatican II, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the National Directory for Catechesis, and other relevant Church documents.
• Have good verbal and written communication skills.
• Have good interpersonal skills and a collaborative management style.
• Have good computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Office).
• Have a demonstrated commitment to high professional ethical standards.
• Have good organizational skills.

Charisms

• Passionate about the work of making disciples; supports the parish mission and vision statements.
• Able to inspire others about all aspects of "grow" ministry.
• Possesses some of the following charisms: Administration, Encouragement, Evangelism, Pastoring, Leadership.

Education, training and/or experience

• Master's Degree in Theology (MA, MAPS, or MDiv), or Catechetics.
• Advanced Catechist Certification through the Archdiocese of Detroit required.
• Catechetical experience required.
• Sacramental preparation experience required.
• Youth Ministry and/or Adult Formation experience preferred.

Physical Requirements as required by Family of Parishes.

This parish/school is an equal opportunity employer and does not illegally discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, height, weight, genetic information, marital or other legally protected status. The Archdiocese of Detroit is committed to achieving excellence through cultural diversity and encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.