ST. JOHN OF THE CROSS YOUTH CATECHESIS
Coordinator of Religious Education
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Position: Part-time Coordinator of Religious Education for Grades Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd
Time Commitment: 20 hours per week, flexible schedule
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DESCRIPTION:
The Youth Catechesis Office serves our children from Preschool through 8th grade at St. John of the Cross Parish. A Coordinator of Religious Education works with the Director of Youth Catechesis to implement the religious formation and sacramental preparation of our students, while partnering with parents as the domestic church.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Recruit and Train Catechists for grade levels
- Develop curriculum and lesson plans for each grade
- Offer creative activities to reach different learning styles of children
- Develop age-appropriate, appealing prayer services and games for children
- Provide regular communication with catechists and aides to affirm/support efforts
- Visit classroom for informal observations
- Provide necessary resources materials for class activities
- Provide at least half years lesson plans to catechists in August
- Plan class rooms lists for each grade, considering students individual needs
- Direct preparation of materials as needed for lessons/class
- Provide materials to promote the growth and development of individual catechists
- Encourage continuing education of Catechists through workshops, certifications, etc.,
- Develop a sense of community among volunteers
- Plan Sacramental prep meetings as directed for 1st Reconciliation and 1st Eucharist
- Prepare with the DRE, Director of Worship or Ordained as needed
- Form parents, catechists and children through effective meetings and lessons
- Direct preparation of materials as needed for preparation and liturgical events
- Meet with the DRE regularly, at least once a month to report and evaluate the primary program
- Copy DRE on communication with Catechists and Parents, keep DRE apprised of any feedback
- Build into the curriculum parental involvement
- Support parents in the faith education and formation of their children
- Communicate and work with parish/school staff to develop a sense of community
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Practicing Catholic and an active member of a parish
- Experience as a volunteer catechist at a parish
- Collaborative, Computer Proficient, Attention to Detail, Confidentiality
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Communication and collaboration with groups of adults
- Comfortable speaking and presenting to adults
- BS or BA preferably in a related field (education, pastoral ministry, social work)
- Certified Catechist through Chicago Archdiocese or willing to work towards certification
Interested applicants should submit resume to Janet Caschetta, Director of Youth Catechesis at jcaschetta@stjohnofthecross.org or 708 51st Street, Western Springs, IL, 60558
* To be considered for the position, applicants must complete an on-line employee application, agree to a criminal background check, and complete the Archdiocese’s Child Protection Workshop and all requirements of Archdiocese of Chicago employees.