Faith Formation

OverviewThe Faith Formation & Next Generation Director at St. Norbert Parish (Archdiocese of Philadelphia) is a full-time role responsible for overseeing Catholic faith formation for the children and families from early childhood through high school. This includes overseeing key parish ministries: Kingdom Junction and Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW), Religious Education and Sacramental Preparation for elementary through 7th grade, and Youth Ministry for middle school through high school. The role also supports the faith life of students at St. Norbert School. A central focus is building authentic, Christ-centered relationships with youth and families, while providing age-appropriate catechesis and opportunities for family faith formation.Hours: Full-time (Weekend Work Required) | Reports to: Director of Mission ImplementationPrimary ResponsibilitiesEarly Childhood and Children’s Liturgy Ministry: Provide leadership and oversight for Kingdom Junction (ages 2–5) by recruiting, supporting, and supervising the volunteer Kingdom Junction Leader who runs the ministry.Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW): Oversee the CLOW program by coordinating with the volunteer leader, ensuring content is developmentally appropriate, engaging, and liturgically sound.Faith Formation/Religious Ed. & Sacramental Preparation: Curriculum development—design/update and implement religious education/faith formation programs for children in Kindergarten through 7th grade (and beyond, as needed), aligned with Archdiocese guidelines and parish mission.Program Oversight: Manage all aspects of Religious Education programs, including Sunday sessions and Confirmation preparation; develop annual schedule and registrations; supervise volunteers; maintain on-site presence; work with Spanish community to foster involvement.Family Catechesis Leadership: Lead monthly Family Catechesis Program where parents and children receive formation together.Sacramental Preparation: Oversee planning and preparation for First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation, including content, liturgical coordination, rehearsals, Masses, and receptions.Community Engagement: Plan events, retreats, and outreach to foster faith and connection among parish families.Collaboration: Work with Pastor, clergy, staff, and parents to align catechetical efforts with parish pastoral vision; complete annual audits and reporting to the Archdiocese; oversee Sacrament reporting.Special Catechetical Needs: Develop faith formation plans for unbaptized or uncatechized children under 18, ensuring appropriate instruction and sacramental preparation.Retreats & Penance Services: Plan and lead retreats and seasonal penance services for students and parents.Monthly area meetings: Represent St. Norbert Parish at local/regional Archdiocesan meetings and catechetical workshops.Youth Ministry (Middle School & High School)Provide leadership and oversight for Youth Ministry by collaborating with the Youth Minister.Foster authentic relationships through small group discipleship and mentoring opportunities.Collaborate with parish staff and clergy to plan youth liturgies, including Next Generation at Mass.St. Norbert School MinistryCollaborate with principal, teachers, and staff to strengthen the school’s Catholic identity.Support Sacramental Preparation efforts and ensure clear communication with school staff and families.Coordinate faith formation, prayer services, liturgies, and service-learning opportunities for students and staff.Leadership & Volunteer DevelopmentRecruit, train, and support volunteers and catechists across all program areas.Provide ongoing training, spiritual support, recognition, and clear expectations for ministry leaders.Ensure compliance with Archdiocesan Religious Education and Safe Environment policies in partnership with the parish Safe Environment Coordinator.Administrative, Collaborative & Supervisory ResponsibilitiesAlign programs with the parish Mission and Strategic Anchors in collaboration with the Director of Mission Implementation and parish staff.Manage budgets, assist with fundraising, and steward resources.Maintain clear, professional communication with families, volunteers, school personnel, and parish leadership.Serve as parish liaison to the Archdiocesan Offices for Catechetical Formation and Office of Ministry for Youth.Report structure: Family Formation & Next Generation Director oversees Family Formation & Next Generation Assistant, Youth Minister, Catechists, Core Team members, CLOW Lead, and Kingdom Junction Lead.Qualifications & RequirementsKnowledge of and fidelity to the teachings of the Roman Catholic ChurchBachelor’s degree in Theology, Religious Studies, Youth Ministry, Catechetics or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.5+ years of experience in religious education, youth ministry, or related fieldStrong organizational, administrative, and communication skills; proficient with technologySelf-motivated and results-oriented; able to work independently and with volunteersCommitment to the Mission, Vision, and Strategic Anchors of St. Norbert ParishUnderstanding and competency with social media and technologyMusical skills to lead worship are beneficial but not requiredSpanish proficiency preferred but not requiredMust pass a background check and comply with Archdiocesan child protection and Safe Environment policiesScheduleRegular weekend work requiredFlexible weekday schedulePresence at major parish meetings and liturgies, including Christmas, Holy Week, Easter, and other significant datesOccasional evening meetings, retreats, or overnight tripsSalarySt. Norbert Parish offers a competitive compensation package based on experience and skill setHow to ApplySubmit your resume to: Braden McGettigan, Director of Parish OperationsContact: bmcgettigan@parish.stnorbert.orgPosition DetailsSeniority level: Mid-Senior levelEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: OtherIndustries: Religious Institutions #J-18808-Ljbffr