Pastoral Associate for Elementary Faith Formation at Our Lady of the Assumption, Latham

Pastoral Associate for Elementary Faith Formation at Our Lady of the Assumption, Latham

Location:

Our Lady of the

Assumption Address:

498 Watervliet-Shaker Rd. Latham, NY 12110

Reports To:

The Pastor Summary:

Under the direction of the Pastor, the Pastoral Associate for Elementary Faith Formation develops, implements and administers the Faith Formation Program for the Parish at the Elementary levels (Pre-K-5), and supports the catechesis for youth and the Pastoral Associate for Youth Faith Formation. The Pastoral Associate for Elementary Faith Formation is a member of a working team for life-long faith formation with responsibilities in catechesis and evangelization. The Pastoral Associate for Elementary Faith Formation coordinates the sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. This is a full-time position, salary and benefits according to diocesan guidelines.

Functions/Responsibilities:

• Plans, initiates, and implements all phases of Faith Formation at the elementary levels, works collaboratively with catechesis for youth and the Pastoral Associate for Youth Faith Formation. Keeps knowledgeable of current trends in Faith Formation resources and technology.
• Collaborates in developing the curriculum for elementary catechesis, choosing themes, and events according to the national guidelines and as recommended by the Diocesan Office.
• Responsible for the recruitment, training and certification of volunteers/catechists for elementary children. Encourages volunteers to pursue diocesan certification and supports them in these efforts. Clearly communicates curriculum to be covered. Provides resources and supervision to all catechists.
• Assures all volunteers/catechists complete a volunteer application, receive mandatory safety training, sign a Diocesan Code of Conduct and clear a background check through the Diocese of Albany. The Pastoral Associate will maintain records of all paperwork.
• Maintains parish sacramental records with regard to First Eucharist. Promotes programs and provides material for the parish bulletin and other media.
• Coordinates resources for Children's Liturgy of the Word and Vacation Bible School. Assures all volunteer safety requirements for those working with children are met.
• Participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains membership in professional organizations. Participates in Beverwyck Vicariate meetings and in Diocesan events.
• Assists parents and families to nurture their own faith journey and to support their role as primary educators of their children.
• Attends monthly Parish Council meetings as requested by the Pastor.
• Along with the Pastoral Associate for Youth Faith Formation, attends and co-chairs the Parent Council.
• Keeps abreast of diocesan, national and global Church trends in the field of catechesis: participates in local and regional organizations related to catechesis.
• Supervises, along with the Pastoral Associate for Youth Faith Formation, the Faith Formation Administrative Assistant to ensure smooth flow of work in the department and/or assigned by the Pastor.

Minimum Requirements:

• Baptized Catholic.
• Knowledge of Catholic doctrine and beliefs as presented in the National Directory of Catechesis and other relevant Church and Catechetical documents.
• Preferred degree in theology, pastoral studies, religious education or a related field, along with evidence of completion of appropriate certification, educational formation or catechetical classes or workshops.
• Knowledge and ability to evaluate age-appropriate curriculum, programs and experiences for faith formation classes.
• Preferred successful work experience in religious education/faith formation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. Computer literacy.
• Demonstrated ability to recognize and honor diversity within the parish community.
• Demonstrated successful ability to recruit, motivate and support volunteer catechists.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job Position requires extended periods of sitting and working at a computer, ability to move about in an office environment, ability to operate office equipment, e.g., phone, computer, printer; occasional lifting up to 25 pounds

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed

Additional Information:

Salary:

 $44,000 - $48,000, based upon experience