Catholic Charities Parish Social Ministry Developer

Parish Social Ministry Developer

Parish Social Ministry is central to Catholic Charities. It was founded on the ideal that the healing presence of Jesus would be lived out in every parish of our diocese through Parish Social Ministry. The Department is staffed with Developers who work directly with Pastors, and PSM Coordinators and Volunteers on a deanery level to support the Parish Social Ministry initiatives in the parishes. Developers serve as a resource and consultant to parishes and are available to assist parishes, as needed, in the growth and expansion of their PSM programs. The Developers serve as conduits between Catholic Charities and the parish in an ongoing effort to deepen and enhance their partnership in the ministry of service and advocacy with the people of Long Island. The Developer is an ambassador for the agency, connecting with community leaders and elected officials. It is essential that a PSM Developer possess a strong sense of faith, church and vision.

Developer Responsibilities
Uphold the founding vision of Parish Social Ministry in every parish by mobilizing the faithful through the engagement of volunteers to respond to those in need; Implement the Churchs social mission by serving as an advocate with and for the poor; Develop relationships with Pastors, PSM Coordinators, PSM Volunteers, Society of St. Vincent de Paul and other community leaders; Reach out to make connections and cultivate relationships with Agency ministries to promote a more seamless integration with parishes. Provide ongoing and specialized consultation services to parishes, such as assessments of and recommendations for PSM programs; Convene regular deanery meetings of PSM Coordinators; Encourage and assist PSM Coordinators in the recruitment of volunteers and in identifying and empowering parish leaders; Develop resources and networking in a variety of areas and make them available to parishes as appropriate; Design, initiate, facilitate and conduct various training programs for Coordinators and Volunteers; Participate in the development of future strategies and goals for the Department and for activities of the Agency; Attend and facilitate meetings with public officials to further the cause of social justice or to address specific needs of communities and the Agency; Encourage and facilitate parish development of actions and advocacy for social justice, public policy and community organizing; Compose various literature, as needed, regarding programs and other applicable issues for distribution both internally and externally; Work as a team member within Catholic Charities PSM Department coordinating efforts to assist parishes; Participate in special Agency projects, activities and events, such as: convenings, days of prayer, Albany Forum Day, disaster response, etc.; Act as lead coordinator of agency/parish response in times of emergency/disaster; Document parish visits and services on monthly basis.
July, 2013

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Qualifications for a Parish Social Ministry Developer

The following qualifications and personal attributes are considered essential: A Bachelors degree required; Masters degree preferred Knowledge of Catholic social teaching and basic theology Ministry experience (employment or volunteer) Knowledge of the dynamics of parish and church life Experience in disaster response Strong leadership skills Good relational, communication and public speaking skills Ability to build community and work as part of a team Commitment to ongoing training and education A clear understanding of Parish Social Ministry and the difference between direct service, advocacy and social justice Experience with diverse cultures helpful Bi-lingual, Spanish, helpful Good administrative and organizational skills Strong computer skills Knowledge of technology and social media

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July, 2013