Director of Religious Education

Saint Rose of Lima Parish is seeking a part-time faithful, dynamic, and organized Director of Religious Education to lead and coordinate our comprehensive faith formation programs. This role is central to our mission of forming disciples of all ages, from preschool through adulthood, in the heart of the Catholic faith.

The DRE will oversee the development and implementation of a robust religious education program that aligns with the liturgical life of the parish, the teachings of the Archdiocese of Denver, and the specific pastoral needs of our diverse community. This individual will be a visible and collaborative leader, working closely with clergy, staff, volunteers, and families to foster a vibrant culture of lifelong learning and spiritual growth.

Key Responsibilities

Program Management & Curriculum

1. Oversee Children's Religious Education: Direct and manage the parish's religious education program for children in grades K-12, including curriculum selection, class scheduling, and student registration.

2. Implement Archdiocesan Curriculum: Ensure all programs adhere to the Saints Among Us curriculum for sacramental preparation, as established by the Archdiocese of Denver for the Restored Order of the Sacraments.

3. Facilitate Sacramental Preparation: Coordinate and oversee preparation for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation in accordance with Archdiocesan guidelines, ensuring families are actively engaged in the process.

4. Coordinate Adult Faith Formation: Develop and oversee programs for adult formation, including the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), bible studies, and other learning opportunities to help adults deepen their faith.

5. Evaluate and Select Resources: Research, evaluate, and select orthodox and engaging catechetical materials, curricula, and resources (e.g., from Ascension Press, Sophia Institute, CatechismClass.com) that align with the parish's and Archdiocese's mission.

6. Promote Family Catechesis: Champion the role of parents as the primary educators of their children and implement family-centered catechesis models, such as A Family of Faith, to empower and involve the whole family in the learning process.

Volunteer & Staff Management

1. Recruit and Train Catechists: Identify, recruit, train, and support volunteer catechists and classroom aides, ensuring they are well-equipped to share the faith with confidence and joy.

2. Provide Ongoing Formation: Offer regular training, workshops, and resources for catechists to enhance their teaching skills and deepen their own spiritual lives.

3. Supervise Program Staff: Supervise any paid program assistants or coordinators, fostering a collaborative and faith-filled team environment.

Parish & Community Engagement

1. Communicate with Families: Maintain clear and consistent communication with parents and families regarding program updates, registration, events, and the spiritual growth of their children.

2. Collaborate with Parish Staff: Work in close partnership with the Pastor, parochial vicar, school principal (regarding the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Academy), and other ministry leaders to ensure an integrated approach to parish life.

3. Promote Special Needs Inclusion: Ensure programs are welcoming and accessible to all, including families and individuals with special needs, by partnering with the Archdiocese's Office of Special Religious Education when necessary.

Administrative Duties

1. Manage Program Budget: Develop and manage the annual budget for the Religious Education program, ensuring prudent stewardship of parish resources.

2. Maintain Records: Oversee the maintenance of accurate student records, including sacramental certificates and registration information.

3. Ensure Safe Environment: Strictly adhere to and implement all Archdiocesan policies and procedures regarding the protection of children and youth, including the VIRTUS training and safe environment curriculum