Pastoral Assistant

**Pastoral Assistant/Catechist**

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Hamilton, established in 1856, is the second largest diocese in English speaking Canada and serves the needs of more than 626,000 Roman Catholics, throughout Southwestern Ontario. St. Michael Parish in Waterloo is looking for a fulltime (Monday - Thursday 9am to 4pm, Sunday 8am to 1pm) **Pastoral Assistant/Catechist**. Reporting to the Parish Priest, this position offers a competitive rate of pay and benefits package.

**Primary Responsibilities**
- Provides confidential management support to the Pastoral team.
- Provides leadership under direction of the pastor with First Communion and Reconciliation by aiding in class visits, leading the First Communion retreats and participating in teacher meetings, parent meetings and in each celebration.
- Assistant the Parish Priest in conducting worship services; provides spiritual guidance to church members; plans and arranges educational, social, and recreational programs for congregation.
- Foster the involvement and young families in the life of the parish, being involved in parish activities and ministries, train, and engage volunteers in an outreach capacity for the purpose of evangelization of children.
- Develop, Direct and Assist with comprehensive Children’s Ministry Program by providing support to volunteers and in co-operating of a program for those aged 2 - Grade 4 at the Lord’s Day Masses.
- Coordinate four seasonal Children’s Masses for the 9am and 11am Sunday Mass during the school year on dates designated by the Pastor.
- Assist Pastoral Team and visiting clergy with liturgical support as required (special services, funerals, etc.)
- Pastoral presence in schools.
- Preparation of Baptismal and marriage preparations.
- Plan and conduct adult education programs.
- Other duties as assigned by the Pastor.

**Required Qualifications and Experience**
- College/University Bachelor's degree, diploma (Religious Studies/Theology, Education or strong background in Catechesis), or certificate with 3 - 5 years of experience (an asset but not mandatory).
- Successful completion of a Police Records Check (must include the Vulnerable Sector)
- Practicing Catholic with in-depth knowledge of Catholic teachings.
- Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with the Pastor, parish staff, volunteers and parish community.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and trust.
- Understanding of issues relevant to the marginalized in our society.
- Comfortable praying with and for others.

**Skills**
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Highly organized and able to prioritize to meet weekly deadlines
- Strong social media skills.

**_The Diocese of Hamilton is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you are contacted for an interview and require accommodation, please inform the Human Resources Manager._