Director of Religious Education

Diocese of Camden; New Jersey; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Diocese of Camden is seeking a full-time Director of Religious Education (DRE) for the Parish of St. John Neumann in Cape May County, NJ. The DRE will lead a vibrant catechetical program, collaborating with staff and the Regional Hispanic Ministry to foster faith formation among children and adults.

This role requires a practicing Catholic with a Master’s degree and 3+ years of experience in catechetical ministry. Responsibilities include leading education classes, overseeing sacramental preparations, and mentoring catechists.

Qualifications

• Practicing Catholic in good standing with a commitment to living the faith.
• 3+ years of experience in catechetical ministry or parish faith formation.
• Ability to inspire and form others in their faith journey.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate religious education classes.
• Oversee sacramental preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation.
• Organize and lead retreats fostering personal encounters with Christ.

Skills

Leadership skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Bilingual in English and Spanish

Public speaking

Teaching

Education

Master’s degree in theology, ministry, or related field

Tools

Computer proficiency

Job description

Parish of St. John Neumann – Cape May County, NJ

Position Overview

The Parish of St. John Neumann is seeking a full-time Director of Religious Education (DRE) who is passionate about evangelization, discipleship, and forming others in the Catholic faith. Working closely with the Pastor and parish staff, the DRE will lead and grow a vibrant catechetical program that helps children, families, and adults encounter Jesus Christ and live as His disciples active in living the faith.

As a parish that hosts the Regional Hispanic Ministry for Cape May County, the DRE will also collaborate in fostering faith formation within growing Latino community. Approximately 60% of the ~120 children in the program are from Spanish-speaking households.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate twice-weekly religious education classes rooted in authentic Catholic teaching and a spirit of evangelization
• Oversee sacramental preparation for First Holy Communion and Confirmation, helping families understand and live the grace of the sacraments
• Organize and lead retreats that foster personal encounter with Christ
• Manage annual program registration and planning
• Recruit, form, and mentor catechists who not only teach the faith but joyfully witness to it
• Order and maintain catechetical materials and resources
• Maintain accurate and organized records
• Engage and support parents as the primary educators of their children in the faith
• Assist the Pastor in coordinating the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), fostering adult conversion and ongoing formation
• Collaborate with parish staff and the Regional Hispanic Ministry to build unity and shared mission

Qualifications

• Practicing Catholic in good standing, with a visible commitment to living the faith
• Master’s degree in theology, ministry, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Proficient in English and Spanish (bilingual preferred)
• Experience in catechetical ministry or parish faith formation (3+ years)
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to inspire, form, and accompany others in their faith journey
• Comfort with public speaking, teaching, and leading groups
• Proficiency with computers and parish systems
• Discretion, sound judgment, and pastoral sensitivity
• Commitment to diocesan policies, including the Code of Ministerial Conduct and Social Media Policy
• Willingness to complete VIRTUS certification

Work Schedule

• Full-time (40 hours/week)
• Flexible weekday schedule with regular evening and occasional weekend commitments

Physical Requirements

• Light to moderate lifting (up to 44 lbs)
• Extended periods of sitting, typing, and computer use
• Occasional standing, walking, kneeling, or climbing
• Ability to communicate effectively in person and electronically

Additional Information

This position is an opportunity to help shape the future of the parish by forming disciples and strengthening families in their faith. The description above outlines general responsibilities and is not exhaustive.