The cluster of St. Francis de Sales, Norton Shores and St. Michael the Archangel, Muskegon is seeking a full-time Director of Faith Formation & Parish Ministries to foster spiritual growth and oversee the ministry programs of both parishes. In addition to running our weekly Faith Formation Program, the director serves as a vital link between various ministry departments, staff, volunteers and the parish community, ensuring that opportunities for service and faith formation are cohesive and effective across all age groups.
Reports To: Pastor
Essential Responsibilities
SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP & ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT
-Recruit, support, and coordinate parish staff and volunteers serving within the Faith Formation, Music, Liturgy, Parish Life and Art & Environment ministries.
-Develop and manage the annual Faith Formation, Music, Liturgy, Parish Life and Art & Environment budgets.
-Ensure the availability and maintenance of necessary resources, including educational materials, equipment, and facilities.
-Maintain effective and open communication with church leadership, staff, and the broader parish community.
-Attend and contribute to Staff and Pastoral Council meetings.
-Plan and execute events - including but not limited to - parish picnic, annual volunteer recognition event, Advent by Candlelight, etc.
-Proactively promote discipleship and spiritual growth among all church members.
CHILD & YOUTH FAITH FORMATION
-Develop, implement, and oversee the parish faith formation program for grades K-12.
-Recruit, train, and provide ongoing support for parish catechists and volunteers.
-Foster a culture of prayer, learning, and discipleship among young parishioners.
-Select and implement age-appropriate curriculum for sacramental preparation, youth groups, and adult education.
-Coordinate and execute special parish events, including Vacation Bible School, conferences, and retreats.
-Assess the ongoing effectiveness of Faith Formation programs and implement necessary adjustments for improvement.
FAMILY & ADULT FAITH FORMATION
-Develop and oversee ongoing formation opportunities for adults and families.
-Organize and oversee parish-wide formation events such as:
Bible studies
Speaker series
Marriage enrichment events
Parish celebrations and community gatherings
-Coordinate parish Advent and Lenten days of reflection or formation series.
-Assist with parish celebrations of major liturgical feasts (Corpus Christi, patronal feast day, St. Nicholas breakfast, etc.)
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
-Coordinate and oversee sacramental preparation programs, and retreats when applicable, for:
Baptism
First Reconciliation
First Holy Communion
Confirmation
Wedding preparation
ORDER OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (OCIA)
-Oversee and assist with the parish OCIA process.
-Coordinate catechists, sponsors, and parish involvement in the formation of those entering the Church.
-Coordinate, rehearse and participate in Rites and Masses, including but not limited to: Rite of Entrance & Welcoming, Rite of Election & Sending, and Easter Vigil
QUALIFICATIONS
-Practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church.
-Strong understanding of Catholic teaching and parish life.
-Ability to work evenings and weekends as required.
-Experience in catechesis, ministry leadership, or Catholic education preferred. (If candidate does not have Diocesan Catechetical Certification, he or she will need to work toward full certification.)
-Ability to organize programs, lead volunteers, and foster community engagement.
-Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
-Ability to collaborate with parish staff, volunteers, and clergy.
-Ability to be self-directed, plan and execute tasks with minimal supervision, lead others, and communicate clearly with parish leadership.
POSITION DETAILS
-Full-time position
-Salary and benefits commensurate with experience
-Some evening and weekend work required