Title: Director of Respect Life
Reports to: Bishop
Location: Catholic Center, Diocese of Venice Inc. | Venice, FL
Classification: Salaried/Exempt
Overview
The Director of Respect Life serves as the primary resource and staff person to the Diocese, parishes, schools, and agencies of the Diocese of Venice in Florida, Inc. in areas relating to the Church's teaching on the sanctity of human life. In this capacity, the position provides service, support, and resources in education and advocacy regarding public policy and church ministries in all related areas.
Job Responsibilities:
- Guide the implementation of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Pastoral Plan for Respect Life Activities and the National Pastoral Initiative for Families by assisting in the development of programs and strategies in the areas of education, prayer, and public policy.
- Advance the Bishop's vision for Respect Life in the Diocese.
- Serve as the official Diocesan representative in activities and to organizations which are consistent with the doctrine and values of the Catholic Church and the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the areas of Respect Life, Project Rachel.
- Serve as a resource to pastors, parish life coordinators, administrators, principals, directors, and other leaders in advancing awareness of Catholic doctrine on the sanctity of human life.
- Coordinate all Diocesan Respect Life activities, including Respect Life Month, Respect Life Masses, all related Diocese campaigns, etc.
- Collaborate with the Florida Catholic Conference as required and directed in developing and implementing educational and advocacy programs related to public policy and Church doctrine.
- Promote, establish, and maintain relationships with other Respect Life organizations locally, statewide, and nationally whose values and practices conform to Catholic moral and social doctrine.
- Represent the Diocese on various committees and at public events, as directed.
- Develop and oversee the annual budget of the office.
- Oversee office operations in a professional manner.
- Stay abreast of trends and best practices in the area of Respect Life Ministries.
- Develop and implement a communications strategy that incorporates digital media.
- Perform other duties, as needed.
Requirements:
- A bachelor's degree in theology or a related field, is preferred.
- Solid formation in the doctrine and teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
- Experience in advocating for the sanctity of human life.
- Experience in organizing events and coordinating programs.
- Travel throughout the Diocese is required.
- Evening and weekend work is involved.
- A practicing Roman Catholic who can clearly and accurately articulate the teachings of the Church with respect to the sanctity of human life.
- Excellent oral and written communications ability, including listening skills.
- Excellent public relations and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work well independently as well as with others.
- Strong organizational and management skills.
- Ability to recruit, train, and supervise volunteers.
- A high level of initiative, judgment, and discretion.
- Ability to use social media and other digital forms of communication.
- Ability to work effectively with people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
