Director of Faith Formation and Discipleship

Job Summary

The Director of Faith Formation and Discipleship is responsible for shaping and implementing a comprehensive vision of discipleship in the Archdiocese of St. Louis. This role oversees lay faith formation initiatives, OCIA, young adult ministry, and the coordination of men’s and women’s conferences. The Director works in close partnership with parishes, diocesan leadership, and other curia offices to support the lifelong formation of missionary disciples. The Director manages program budgets, supervises staff, and actively supports the mission of parish renewal through formation and outreach.

Job Responsibilities

1. Leads the strategic development and implementation of lay faith formation pathways, ensuring theological integrity and pastoral accessibility.

2. Evangelization efforts should be rooted in and flow from the Archbishop’s vision document, ensuring fidelity to his pastoral priorities and guidance.

3. Oversees OCIA support and training, providing parishes with formation resources, leadership consultation, and theological guidance.

4. Directs young adult ministry across the Archdiocese, equipping leaders and fostering vibrant communities of faith and service.

5. Plans and executes annual men’s and women’s conferences to inspire spiritual renewal, communal prayer, and missionary zeal.

6. Consults regularly with parish leaders, providing formation, tools, and support for launching small groups, discipleship processes, and evangelizing outreach.

7. Works in close partnership with the Director of Parish Mission and Vitality to ensure cohesive efforts that support parish renewal and vibrant missionary outreach.

8. Collaborates with other Curia offices to align formation and discipleship with broader evangelization and stewardship efforts.

9. Builds networks of parish staff and volunteers to share best practices, receive training, and grow in formation competencies.

10. Evaluates and adapts formation offerings based on feedback, emerging needs, and national best practices.

Job Requirements

1. Practicing Catholic with deep faith and commitment to the Church’s mission of evangelization.

2. Master’s degree in Theology, Evangelization, or Pastoral Ministry preferred.

3. 5+ years of parish or diocesan ministry experience in formation or discipleship roles.

4. Familiarity with OCIA, adult catechesis, and post-baptismal formation processes.

5. Demonstrated success in coordinating events, managing staff, and overseeing budgets.

6. Technologically proficient and comfortable with online platforms and tools.

7. Understanding of contemporary discipleship models and evangelization strategies.

8. Competence in engaging a culturally diverse Church.

Skills & Attitudes Required for Success:

1. Effective public communicator with strong facilitation and catechetical skills.

2. Pastoral heart and servant leadership; able to listen and respond to the needs of individuals and communities.

3. Visionary and creative in approach to formation and discipleship.

4. Highly organized and adaptable; able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

5. Committed to collaboration, prayerful discernment, and excellence in ministry.

6. Trusted colleague and resource to pastors, parish staff, and fellow curia leaders.

Relationship Requirements:

1. Parish faith formation leaders, pastors, young adult leaders, event volunteers, catechists, curia staff, lay formation program alumni, external formation partners, and apostolic collaborators.