SUMMARY

The Assistant Director of Faith Formation for Catechesis works with the Office of Faith Formation team to facilitate and promote the various catechetical, evangelical, and formational efforts throughout the Diocese of Nashville. The Assistant Director for Catechesis closely collaborates with pastors, parish leaders, and the Office of Catholic Schools to assist with their religious education and sacramental preparation programs as well as coordinates adult faith formation opportunities at both the diocesan and parish level. By providing guidance, mentorship, and accompaniment to all levels of parish ministry and lay sacramental life, the Assistant Director for Catechesis exemplifies and furthers the mission of the Diocese of Nashville: Living and Proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ, Welcoming All.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY INCLUDE:

• Accompanies and advises Directors of Religious Education, OCIA leaders, and catechists on issues related to religious education, catechesis, and sacramental preparation by:

1. Updating the core standards for religious education curricula.
2. Developing a handbook of guidelines and tools for Directors of Religious Education.
3. Creating a guidelines source for the Sacraments of Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation.
4. Maintaining an awareness of the best catechetical, evangelical, and formational programs available for parishes.
5. Developing and/or researching catechetical materials for Christian Initiation and serving as diocesan liaison for parish OCIA programs.
6. Overseeing the implementation of the Circle of Grace safe environment curriculum.
7. Delivering catechetical talks and series to parishes.
8. Finding speakers or facilitating conferences for parishes.

• Supports and mentors Directors of Religious Education, OCIA leaders, and other formation staff in parishes in the following ways:

1. Monthly meetings for parish directors of religious education.
2. Bi-monthly meetings for OCIA parish leaders.
3. One annual retreat for parish catechetical leaders.
4. Provides classes and opportunities for catechists and formational leaders at the parish level.
5. Coordinates, promotes, and maintains diocesan catechetical formation initiatives.

• Organizes and executes annual catechetical initiatives of the Office of Faith Formation such as:

1. SEALED confirmation retreat.
2. Rite of Election.
3. Totus Tuus summer program with diocesan parish leaders, recruits summer missionaries, and organizes summer training program for missionaries.

• Works with the Office of Catholic Schools to facilitate their faith-based initiatives.
• Maintains an awareness of all relevant documents from the Holy See and USCCB.
• Creates and reviews participatory surveys for all catechetical events.
• Prepares yearly budget plans and manages monthly budget required for the Catechesis division of the Office of Faith Formation.
• Performs other duties assigned by the Director and Associate Director of the Office of Faith Formation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Theology or related field.
• Master’s degree in Theology, Education, or related field preferred.
• 2+ years of active participation in parish ministry.
• 2+ years of project management experience.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS/REQUIREMENTS

• Practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.
• Active parish and diocesan involvement.
• Considerable knowledge of Church doctrine and practice.
• Articulate written and public speaking skills.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and project management skills.
• Familiarity with applicable Church documents and rites, such as Catechesi Tradendae, Directory for Catechesis, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, etc.
• Proficiency with computer programs, web-based software, and social media platforms.
• Ability to travel to off-site events and to work in the evenings and on weekends as occasionally required.
• Fluency in Spanish preferred.