Youth Minister

Job Description

I. IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
Position Title: Youth Minister
Location: St. Simon the Apostle
Status: Full Time
FLSA: Exempt
Reports to: Director of Evangelization

II. PRIMARY FUNCTIONS
The youth minister leads a vibrant and comprehensive ministry that forms young disciples of Jesus Christ. Rooted in the teachings and Tradition of the Catholic Church, this position engages students and their families through evangelization, liturgy, catechesis, community, and service. The youth minister cultivates an environment where teens encounter Christ, grow in discipleship, and are equipped to live as missionary witnesses in today's world. The role specifically entails leading Confirmation preparation and OCIA for teens, while recruiting volunteers, engaging parents, and maintaining a welcoming, safe environment.

III. POSITION CONTENT

A. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
1. Programming: Plan, coordinate, and execute a balanced calendar of youth ministry offerings that support the catechetical, spiritual, emotional, and social development of youth, aligned with parish and archdiocesan priorities. Design and lead youth nights, small groups, retreats, summer leadership, service opportunities, and participation in national conferences (NCYC, EDGE, and Life Teen events.)
2. Leadership Formation: Mentor teens to become servant leaders within the parish and beyond, providing formation and opportunities for peer-to-peer ministry. Maintain healthy working relationships with clergy, parish staff, and other ministry leaders, fostering a collaborative environment.
3. Collaborate with parish school leadership and teachers in matters related to catechesis and sacramental preparation.
4. School Engagement: Engage with St. Simon students and identify opportunities for presence-based ministering (school lunches, sporting events, extracurricular activities, etc.).
5. Confirmation Preparation: Develop and lead a comprehensive archdiocesan-compliant sacramental program, including retreats and interviews.
6. OCIA for Teens: Coordinate and teach the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (adapted for children/teens) for grades 7-12 seeking baptism, full communion, or completion of sacraments.
7. Evangelization and Retreats: Plan annual retreats, service trips, and archdiocesan events ( NCYC, rallies) to deepen the spiritual life of young people.
8. Volunteer Management: Recruit, train, and supervise a team of adult volunteer core members and catechists, ensuring compliance with safe environment policies.
9. Family Engagement & Communication: Maintain regular communication with parents via email/Flocknote, providing resources for family faith formation, and fostering partnership in ministry.
10. Administration: Manage the youth ministry budget, calendar, and social media platforms for engagement and publicity. Attend weekly staff meetings.

IV. POSITION SPECIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

A. SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND/OR ABILITIES

1. Good organization and planning skills
2. Ability to organize and manage workload to meet deadlines
3. Ability to manage multiple employees in an effective manner
4. Good interpersonal skills
5. Strong written and verbal communication skills
6. Ability to manage relationships in an effective, professional manner
7. Self-motivated.
8. Ability to handle multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
9. Understands and adheres to the professional standards of conduct set forth by the Archdiocese of Indianapolis as well as any as outlined by professional degree/license, as applies.
10. Willingness to foster the Church's mission

B. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE
1. Must be able to understand and to comply with the Archdiocese of Indianapolis Code of Conduct
2. Must be able to successfully complete the Archdiocese of Indianapolis Child Safety Training
3. Background screening required
4. Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church, knowledgeable in Scripture and Catechism.
5. Bachelor's degree in Theology, Pastoral Ministry, or related field (or equivalent experience).
6. Previous experience in parish youth ministry, specifically in teaching Confirmation.
7. Ability to work evenings and weekends.