When hiring a director of religious education (DRE),
program coordinator for specific areas of religious education (CRE), or
youth minister, the pastor or parish board should create job
descriptions that suitably describe the positions and the parish's
expectations in line with archdiocesan employment policies. The job
descriptions should include a summary of the position, necessary
qualifications and experience, and a list of duties and
responsibilities. Sample job descriptions are available for the DRE and CRE positions.
An
important element in seeking appropriate catechetical/ministerial
personnel is the development of a clear and realistic description of the
roles and responsibilities of the positions, according to the
individual needs of the parish.
Even after the position is
filled, needs or circumstances may necessitate a revision of the job
description. Adjustments can and should be made as required.
As
the parish develops roles, determines duties and responsibilities, and
creates job descriptions for the DRE, CRE, and youth minister positions,
the parish should consider candidates capable of providing direction,
organization, and communication. Specifically, a candidate should be
qualified to:
Provide opportunities for the spiritual growth of the staff of the catechetical/youth program
Conduct regular meetings
Offer team-building events as necessary
Evaluate effectiveness of the staff and program
Plan staff commissioning
Develop and/or operate the parish religious education resource center
Take the lead role in determining goals and prioritizing objectives
Establish long-range plans (i.e., three to five years)
Create and coordinate various departments and programs
Establish and conduct a recruiting program for volunteers
Select volunteers and arrange for them to attend formation courses, congresses, in-service training, etc.
Prepare a budget and control expenditures
Determine
the content of the religious education program (methodology, texts,
liturgies, etc.) in accord with the archdiocesan Office of Religious Education
Plan the sacramental programs
Design the annual program (calendar, schedules, etc.)
Provide parent/guardian education programs
Acquire, organize, and provide resources (media, supplies, etc.)
Handle student registration and maintain records of each student
Maintain current sacramental records for the parish files
Make arrangements for the Religious Education Congress attendance
Inform and report the progress of programs to the appropriate person
Attend the parish staff meetings
Participate in parish activities
Maintain contact with the archdiocesan Office of Religious Education and other related offices of the archdiocese