A Director of Religious Education directs educational programs and activities for a denominational group such as a church or synagogue. Coordinates the work of volunteer religious education teachers and plans classes and curriculum designed to introduce children and adults to the beliefs and practices of the congregation or denomination.
20 hours per week (Schedule to be determined by Pastor) Reports to : Pastor Benefits may include : Paid Holidays/Holy Days 403b Retirement Employee Assistance Program Position Summary The Faith Formation/OCIA Coordinator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and facilitating the parish's Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) process. This role accompanies individuals seeking full communion with the Catholic Church by providing catechetical formation, spiritual guidance, and opportunities for active participation in the life of the parish. Working collaboratively with the pastor, parish staff, catechists, sponsors, and parishioners, the coordinator fosters a welcoming and faith-filled environment that encourages lifelong discipleship and active engagement in the Church. In addition to overseeing the OCIA process, the coordinator supervises the parish's Elementary, Middle School, and High School Faith Formation programs, as well as Youth and Young Adult Ministry. The coordinator is also responsible for coordinating and overseeing the preparation of candidates for the Confirmation I and Confirmation II programs. Essential Responsibilities Plan, organize, and oversee the parish's OCIA process in accordance with the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults and Archdiocese of San Antonio guidelines. Coordinate inquiry sessions, catechetical formation, retreats, rites, and mystagogy. Develop the annual OCIA calendar in collaboration with parish staff. Ensure that all liturgical rites are celebrated according to diocesan and liturgical norms. Create the annual curriculum and syllabus for all Confirmation I and II (9th and 10th grade) sessions. Plan and implement the annual Confirmation Retreat and formation activities for Confirmation candidates. (including guest speakers) Track all required documents including registrations, Baptismal Certificates, sponsor forms, saint forms and community service hours. Work with the Archdiocese Office of Vocations to plan activities for National Vocation awareness week. Candidate Formation Meet with inquirers to discuss their faith journey and determine appropriate placement within the OCIA process. Coordinate and facilitate weekly formation sessions that integrate Scripture, Catholic doctrine, prayer, liturgy, and Christian living. Provide ongoing spiritual support and referrals to clergy when appropriate. Encourage candidates and catechumens to participate fully in parish worship, service, and community life. Sponsor and Team Development Recruit and train OCIA table leaders, and support catechists, sponsors, and OCIA team members. Provide formation and resources for volunteers to effectively accompany participants. Provide Breaking Open of the Word materials for sessions at Sunday Mass for Adults and children in the catechumenate. Administration Maintain accurate records of participants, sacramental documentation, and parish registration. Coordinate sacramental paperwork with the parish office and archdiocesan offices as required. Prepare program communications, registration materials, and schedules. Manage the OCIA budget and order educational materials and supplies. Create and monitor annual Confirmation budget. Parish Collaboration Collaborate with the pastor, deacons, parish staff, and ministry leaders to integrate participants into parish life. Promote the OCIA process within the parish and encourage parishioner involvement. Participate in parish staff meetings and archdiocesan formation opportunities. Assist with parish events that support evangelization and adult faith formation. Collaborate with parish ministries to provide volunteer opportunities for Confirmation students. Supervision Supervises Elementary, Middle/High School Faith Formation Coordinator and oversees the Youth & Young Adults program. Meets with Faith Formation staff and Pastor to plan annual registration strategies, and overall ongoing improvement of the Faith Formation programs Prepare and provide in-service training for Table Leaders and Catechists. Ensure that that the Faith Formation programs meet specific deadlines and budget requirements. Requirements Practicing Catholic in good standing with a strong commitment to the teachings and mission of the Catholic Church. Bachelor's degree in theology, religious education, pastoral ministry, or a related field preferred. Experience in adult faith formation, catechesis, parish ministry, or OCIA leadership preferred. Knowledge of Catholic doctrine, Scripture, liturgy, and the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults . Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, staff, volunteers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, and parish management software. Successful completion of archdiocesan safe environment training and background screening. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong understanding of Catholic theology and evangelization. Ability to accompany adults in various stages of faith development with compassion and pastoral sensitivity. Effective leadership, facilitation, and public speaking skills. Strong organizational and project management abilities. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound pastoral judgment. This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise as needed. The Archdiocese of San Antonio is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
