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Parish Receptionist Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Parish Receptionist information

What is a parish receptionist?

Parish receptionists are administrative professionals who serve as the first point of contact for visitors, parishioners, and callers at a church or parish office. They handle tasks such as answering phones, greeting guests, managing schedules, and providing information about parish events and services. Additionally, parish receptionists often assist with clerical duties, maintain records, and support the pastoral staff in day-to-day operations. Their role is crucial in ensuring a welcoming and organized environment within the parish community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a parish receptionist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Parish Receptionist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and basic administrative qualifications such as proficiency in clerical tasks and office management. Familiarity with office software (like Microsoft Office Suite), phone systems, and sometimes parish management databases is typically expected. Excellent interpersonal skills, discretion, and a welcoming demeanor are crucial for building positive relationships with parishioners and visitors. These skills ensure the smooth and efficient operation of parish activities, foster a supportive environment, and help maintain trust within the community.

What are some common challenges a parish receptionist might face and how can they be managed?

Parish Receptionists often juggle multiple responsibilities, such as greeting visitors, answering phones, managing schedules, and handling sensitive information. One common challenge is balancing the needs of parishioners with administrative duties, especially during busy periods like holidays or special events. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with clergy and staff, and setting boundaries about what tasks require immediate attention can help manage these demands. Being adaptable and having strong interpersonal skills are also crucial for effectively supporting both the parish team and community members.

What is the difference between Parish Receptionist vs Church Secretary?

AspectParish ReceptionistChurch Secretary
CredentialsHigh school diploma; basic clerical skillsHigh school diploma; administrative experience
Work EnvironmentFront desk of a church or parishOffice setting within a church or administrative office
Employer & IndustryReligious organizations, churchesReligious organizations, churches
Common TasksGreeting visitors, answering calls, schedulingManaging correspondence, record keeping, coordinating events

Both roles serve in church environments, focusing on administrative and customer service tasks. A Parish Receptionist primarily handles front desk duties and visitor interactions, while a Church Secretary often manages broader administrative responsibilities. The roles are similar in credentials and work environment, making them often compared by those seeking church administrative positions.

What does a parish receptionist do at a church?

A parish receptionist at a church is responsible for greeting visitors, answering phone calls, managing schedules, and handling administrative tasks such as record-keeping and correspondence. They often use office software and need good communication skills to assist parishioners and support church operations.

What qualifications do you need to be a parish receptionist?

A parish receptionist typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication and organizational skills, and proficiency with office software such as Microsoft Office. Prior experience in customer service or administrative roles is often preferred, and the position may require basic knowledge of clerical tasks and the ability to handle sensitive information.

What are popular job titles related to Parish Receptionist jobs in Tennessee?

For Parish Receptionist jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Parish Receptionist jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Parish Receptionist jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Parish Receptionist job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Administrative Assistant/ Receptionist Hispanic Ministry

Catholic Diocese of Memphis

Collierville, TN • On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

We are looking for a friendly and welcoming Receptionist to join our Incarnation parish office staff. You will greet guests when they arrive at the office and determine their reason for their visit. Other job duties include answering phones and emails, entering information into our database, organizing files, and making copies. This position will also be the point person for our Hispanic community. Assist the Hispanic parish community and ministries in building a solid foundation within the Catholic community of the Parish. 

Requirements

Duties and Responsibilities

Be present in the parish office. 

 Monitor front desk and comply with all security procedures for visitors

Answer the door and greet all guests, direct to appropriate Staff or office

Answer phone inquiries and provide basic parish information or direct to appropriate staff member.

Receive and distribute Faxes to appropriate Staff

Assist Pastor secretary with paperwork needed for sacramental requests

Assist Pastor's with Homily translations for Spanish Mass

Help with mail deliveries, packages, and couriers

Enter new Parishioners into PDS (Parish Data System)/OSV, update and review on a regular basis making changes as necessary. Maintain parishioner files. Complete the monthly updates for the Diocese. *

Handle and schedule requests for Mass Intentions. Issue Mass cards and record dates. Accept donation and record amount received in ledger book as well as PDS system. At month end provide accounting of Stipends for Mass intentions for Priests.*

Work on Special Projects as assigned by Pastor

*Potential future duties.


Job Requirements and Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent

Fluent in Spanish and English

Basic knowledge of how a Parish operates

Prior administrative or clerical experience preferred

Ability to communicate verbally in English, and Spanish and also in writing

Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel)

Highly organized multitasker who works well in a fast-paced environment and with a variety of persons

Excellent time management and communication skills

Willingness to learn and to grow with the company

Ability to maintain confidentiality in all matters. 

3-5 years in general office setting, working with the public, is desired