Director of Youth Ministry

Job Summary

St. Catherine Laboure Parish is seeking a passionate and dedicated Youth Minister to lead and grow our youth ministry program. The Youth Minister will be responsible for developing, planning, and implementing high school ministry nights, faith-based events, outreach initiatives, retreats, and service projects that align with the vision of Building an Authentic Community ALIVE in Jesus Christ. The ideal candidate will have a heart for ministering to teens, helping them deepen their relationship with Christ, and fostering an inclusive, vibrant youth community rooted in Catholic teachings.

Hours, Compensation and Benefits:

This is a full-time position based on 40 hours per week that will include frequent evening, weekend, and overnight programs.

This position is eligible for a base salary with a generous benefits package through the Archdiocese of St. Louis. Opportunity for additional Salary components depending on certifications.

Please call 314-843-3245 x214 if you have specific questions regarding the position.

Job Responsibilities

· Program Development & Event Planning:

o Develop and implement a comprehensive YM program, including faith-based prayer and social events, retreats, service projects, and discipleship opportunities.

o Plan and execute regular youth gatherings, ministry nights, retreats (e.g., Luke 18 and other teen-centered retreats and events), and engaging activities designed to deepen teens' faith, build authentic community and develop teens into leaders within their faith.

o Foster a culture of inclusivity, spiritual growth, and Christian discipleship, while ensuring all events are welcoming, spiritually enriching, energizing and fun.

· Teen Outreach & Relationship Building:

o Build meaningful relationships with teens and their families to foster spiritual growth and community engagement – office time for teens.

o Develop and apply strategies to engage teens from the parish and community, encouraging participation in YM events and parish life.

o Serve as a mentor, role model, and spiritual guide to teens, supporting them in their faith journeys through active listening and compassionate guidance.

· Retreat & Event Coordination:

o Lead planning and coordination of retreats and events, including the Luke 18 retreat for middle school students, high school parish-based retreats, Steubenville Youth Conference and other special events. Ensure each retreat is focused on spiritual growth and community-building.

o Oversee logistics, scheduling, themes, and content for retreats and events, collaborating with adult and teen leaders to ensure an impactful and spiritually fruitful experience for all. Fundraise within parish guidelines to help offset cost of events.

· Core Leadership Recruitment & Development:

o Recruit, train, and mentor a team of qualified adult and young adult core leadership to assist with YM programming, including ministry nights, small groups, retreats and more.

o Build and mentor a core team where each member is valued and empowered to bring the YM mission to life.

· Marketing & Communication:

o Develop/implement creative marketing strategies to promote YM events through weekly parish bulletin updates, social media posts, newsletters, direct outreach, high school visits, emails, etc.

o Regularly participate in hospitality for parish masses, especially the youth Mass.

· Service Projects & Social Responsibility:

o Organize/lead service-oriented projects that encourage teens to live out their faith.

o Partner with Parish and organizations to provide service opportunities.

· Collaboration & Leadership:

o Work collaboratively with the pastor, parish staff, school principal/staff, volunteers, parish organizations and parents to ensure the success of the YM program.

o Collaborate with Middle School Youth Minister to ensure a fully developed YM program that builds relationships and encourages future participation in the High School YM Program.

o Participate in staff meetings, retreats, and continuing education to enhance professional and spiritual growth.

o Collaborate with other parish ministries and leadership to promote youth involvement in the life and mission of the parish.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (preferably in Theology, Youth Ministry, Religious Studies, or a related field).
• Strong Catholic faith with an active commitment to the teachings of the Church.
• Experience in youth ministry, education, or a related field (volunteer or professional).
• Creativity and enthusiasm for developing innovative and engaging youth ministry programs.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Active listening skills and the patience needed to guide teens and foster spiritual growth.
• Ability to engage and inspire teens, creating an environment of trust and openness.
• Proficiency in social media, event marketing, and technology tools.

The policies and procedures of the St. Catherine Laboure Handbook, the requirements of the Archdiocesan Safe Environment/Prevent and Protect STL program are to be implemented and followed at all times.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience leading a Catholic youth ministry program or similar role.