Director of Faith Formation and Parish Ministries

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