Catechist Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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The Archdiocese of Chicago, the third largest in the United States, serves more than 2.2 million Catholics in 216 parishes in Cook County and Lake County, a geographic area of 1,411 square miles. The Archdiocese, pastored by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, has more than 13,000 employees in its systems and ministries, including Catholic Charities, the region's largest nonprofit social service agency. The Archdiocese also has one of the country's largest seminaries. The Archdiocese's 150+ elementary and secondary schools comprise one of the largest U.S. private school systems. Its schools have received 96 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Awards.
Old St. Patrick's Church is a vibrant Catholic community in Chicago's West Loop, committed to answering God's call through radical inclusivity, beautiful worship, and transformative kinship. Do you have a heart for helping children and families grow in their faith? Are you organized, welcoming, and passionate about serving others behind the scenes? Old St. Patrick's Church is looking for a compassionate and detail-oriented member of Parish Ministry working with our Family Ministry to support the many programs that help families encounter Christ and build lasting community.
This is an opportunity to become part of a mission that has a meaningful impact on the lives of hundreds of children, parents, and families throughout the year. Working alongside our Director of Family Ministry, you'll help coordinate and support a variety of beloved ministries and programs. No two days are exactly the same. One moment, you may be welcoming families, preparing materials for a program, coordinating volunteers, or helping organize an event. Next, you might be putting the finishing touches on a craft project for First Communicants.
Key Responsibilities

• Maintain the Sunday morning Partners Religious Education class schedule (9:30-11:30 AM, twice a month).
• Take notes at the Family Advisory Board Meeting, once a month - sometimes in person, sometimes on Zoom.
• Five Saturdays throughout the year - Setup for first day of Religious Education; Setup for First Communion Retreat; Reconciliation Ceremony; Confirmation Ceremony; First Communion Ceremony.
• Participate in Old St. Patrick's All-Skates during the Christmas, St. Patrick's Day and Easter seasons.

Program Coordination

• Oversee and coordinate the parish Religious Education program for Grades K-8.
• Organize sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation.

Catechist Leadership

• Recruit, train, and support volunteer catechists.
• Provide clear expectations and regular communication to catechists.
• Ensure Safe Environment compliance for all volunteers.
• Conduct periodic catechist meetings for planning and support

Communication & Collaboration

• Communicate regularly with Board members, Religious Education teachers, and families regarding schedules, sacramental timelines, and program expectations.
• Collaborate with the Frances Xavier Warder School regarding sacramental preparation.
• Being the conduit between the Communication Department and our family groups for information regarding Family Ministry activities, promotions, and programing to be used in the bulletin, online, and in pulpit announcements.
• Utilize the LEAD app and other digital tools for communication, facility set ups and recordkeeping.

Administration & Recordkeeping

• Maintain accurate records of enrollment, attendance, sacramental preparation, and volunteer compliance.
• Oversee Religious Education registration.
• Coordinate materials and logistics for classes and sacramental celebrations.
• Work collaboratively with existing parish administrative staff while maintaining primary responsibility for program organization and follow-through.
• Additional Responsibilities (As Needed)
• Coordinate sacramental retreats.
• Assist with family faith formation events throughout the school year.
• Provide reasonable accommodations for students with special pastoral or educational needs.

Qualifications

• Practicing Catholic in good standing.
• Experience in parish religious education or catechetical ministry.
• Strong organizational and administrative ability.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Collaborative leadership style.
• Compliance with Archdiocesan Safe Environment requirements.

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here.
This position has a hourly range of $20.00 - $25.00. An employee's pay within the range will be based on many factors including but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.