Director of Religious Education & Safe Environment Coordinator
St Louis, MO, US, 63141-6629
The Archdiocese of St. Louis Catholic Education and Formation features an expansive coalition of schools that allow our children to develop a sense of purpose and value, receive a higher quality education, join a welcoming community and feel secure in a a dynamic future. We have a rich history, with its establishment 200 years ago by St. Rose Phillppine Duchesne. A coalition of schools serving over 50,000 students (PreK-12) within an 11-county area. The educational experience provided to our students and their families is rooted in a higher calling from God to honor and celebrate the gifts He has given us.
Job Summary
Position Title: Director of Religious Education (DRE) & Safe Environment Coordinator
Reports to: Pastor
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: St Monica Church, Creve Coeur, MO
Position Overview:
The Director of Religious Education (DRE) is responsible for planning, coordinating, and administering the religious education programs of the parish. This includes faith formation for children, sacramental preparation (First Communion, Confirmation, etc.), adult education, and family catechesis. The DRE ensures that all programs align with the teachings and guidelines of the Roman Catholic Church and the diocesan directives.
The Safe Environment Coordinator is responsible for overseeing and implementing the Catholic Church’s policies and procedures regarding the protection of minors and vulnerable adults. This includes compliance with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and diocesan policies.
Job Responsibilities of DRE
- Program Administration
- Develop and oversee the curriculum for religious education programs (Pre-K through 12th grade).
- Coordinate sacramental preparation programs (First Reconciliation, First Eucharist, Confirmation).
- Ensure compliance with diocesan and parish policies.
- Maintain accurate records of student enrollment, attendance, and sacramental reception.
- Volunteer Management
- Recruit, train, and supervise catechists and volunteers.
- Provide ongoing formation and support for catechists.
- Liturgy and Parish Life
- Collaborate with the pastor and liturgy team for sacramental celebrations and special events.
- Promote family involvement in liturgical and community life.
- Adult Faith Formation
- Develop and implement programs for adult religious education and OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults).
- Communication
- Communicate regularly with parents, staff, and parishioners regarding program activities and schedules.
- Prepare promotional materials, newsletters, and parish bulletin announcements.
- Administration
- Prepare and manage the religious education budget.
- Order and manage educational materials and supplies.
- Ensure that all catechists and volunteers comply with Safe Environment requirements.
Jo Responsibilities of Safe Environment Coordinator
- Program Administration:
- Implement and maintain Safe Environment programs at the parish level.
- Ensure all clergy, employees, and volunteers complete required Safe Environment training and background checks.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of compliance.
- Monitor expiration dates for background checks and training renewals.
- Training & Education:
- Coordinate and schedule in-person and/or online Safe Environment training sessions.
- Serve as a resource and provide ongoing education to staff and volunteers regarding abuse prevention and recognition.
- Compliance & Reporting:
- Prepare for and participate in diocesan or external audits of Safe Environment records.
- Report suspected abuse or policy violations in accordance with civil and Church law.
- Assist in reviewing and updating parish or diocesan Safe Environment policies and procedures.
- Communication & Support:
- Collaborate with diocesan Safe Environment Office.
- Serve as the liaison between the parish/diocese and diocesan leadership regarding safeguarding matters.
- Offer support to victims/survivors and promote a culture of transparency and accountability.
Job Requirements
- Practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church.
- Bachelor’s degree in Theology, Religious Education, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- Certification in Catechetical Ministry (or willingness to obtain).
- Strong knowledge of Catholic doctrine, sacraments, and Church teaching.
- Experience in catechetical ministry or teaching preferred.
- Excellent communication, organizational, record-keeping, and leadership skills.
- Proficient in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, parish management software) and/or Safe Environment compliance platforms (Prevent and Protect).
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and compassion.
Working Conditions
- Some evening and weekend work required.
- May involve standing for long periods and lifting light materials.
- Must complete diocesan background check and Safe Environment training.
The Archdiocese of St. Louis Catholic Education and Formation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.