Director of Faith Formation in Surprise, Arizona at St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Parish Surprise

Director of Faith Formation

Full-Time | Sunday–Thursday Schedule (Evenings on Monday & Wednesday until 8:00 p.m.)

Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

St. Clare of Assisi Parish is seeking a well-qualified, faith-filled, and dedicated disciple to lead our growing Faith Formation Department, which serves children, youth, and teens. We are looking for a seasoned leader who desires to form intentional disciples, accompany families, and help build a vibrant culture of evangelization and lifelong formation.

About the Role:

The Director of Faith Formation oversees all parish formation programs for children (grades 1–5), middle school, and high school teens. This includes weekly programs, sacramental preparation, catechist support, curriculum planning, volunteer formation, and collaboration with parish leadership to ensure that all programs reflect the mission of the Church and the pastoral vision of our community. This position requires a Sunday–Thursday work schedule, with evening hours on Monday and Wednesday to support program sessions and ministry needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight for all Faith Formation programs (children, youth, and teens).
• Recruit and support all ministry volunteers.
• Coordinate sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation.
• Collaborate with clergy and parish staff to ensure alignment with parish mission and diocesan guidelines.
• Manage program calendars, communication, registration, and parent engagement.
• Ensure Safe Environment compliance for all volunteers and ministry activities.

Qualifications

• Practicing Catholic in good standing with a strong commitment to the teachings of the Church.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in parish Faith Formation, youth ministry, or related catechetical leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in Theology, Religious Education, Catechetics, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, mentor volunteers, and communicate effectively with families.
• Strong organizational skills and comfort managing multiple programs simultaneously.
• Experience with children, youth, and teen formation required.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as scheduled.

Ideal Candidate: We are seeking someone who:

• Is a joyful disciple with a heart for evangelization.
• Understands the importance of forming families, not just students.
• Brings creativity, pastoral sensitivity, and a collaborative spirit.
• Desires to build a culture of intentional discipleship within the parish.
• Has a passion for helping young people encounter Christ and grow in their Catholic identity.

To Apply: Please submit your résumé, cover letter, and references to Nanci Lukasik-Smith, Director of Evangelization at nsmith@stcpaz.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.