Family of Faith Lay Pastoral Ministry Subsidy Background ... · The Family of Faith Lay Pastoral...

The Family of Faith Lay Pastoral Ministry Subsidy Program is funded through the generous support of donors to the Family of Faith Campaign

Family of Faith Lay Pastoral Ministry Subsidy Background and Process

Background

Lay Pastoral Associates (LPAs) are employed in approximately 65 parishes within the Archdiocese of Toronto. One of the goals of the Pastoral Plan is to increase the percentage of parishes who employ LPAs as a way of supporting our pastoral mission. The Family of Faith campaign has designated funds to support the Pastoral Plan in its goal to facilitate additional parishes in the hiring of LPAs. This 10-year program supporting this endeavour will include a $3 million fund to help subsidize the hiring of LPAs for new positions. The Archdiocese will make $300,000 annually available for grants or loans to parishes that complete the application process.

Who is the Lay Pastoral Ministry Subsidy for?

• Parishes who have determined a need within their community for an LPA. Examples of areas of focus are education and catechesis, family life or maturing adults (see Appendices for sample job descriptions).

• Parishes who are interested in employing a full-time LPA but currently lack the financial resources to fully cover salary and benefits. Pastors will work in consultation with their parish pastoral and finance councils to determine whether they can afford to hire.

• Parishes who are willing to enter into a three-year contract which would include developing a three-year plan that maps out the work of the LPA with key responsibilities and goals.

• Parishes who are committed to providing a just wage, benefits and allocations for continuing education.

• Parishes who are committed to assuming sole responsibility for the salary and benefits of the LPA upon completion of the three-year contract.

• Parishes who are committed to supporting the LPA to be successful by: o Implementing the document A Vision for Lay Pastoral Ministry in the

Archdiocese of Toronto

Family of Faith Lay Pastoral Ministry Subsidy – Background and Process of 14

o Allowing the LPA time away to participate in: Spiritual direction Mentoring Peer support group Annual retreat

o Developing a clear job description with a sustainable set of job responsibilities that allow the candidate to operate within the sphere of his/her own authority, with clear lines of accountability for keeping the pastor apprised of developments, concerns, successes and challenges within the ministry setting.

How will applications be reviewed?

Parishes must demonstrate that they meet the criteria listed in the previous section. In the application form, parishes will be asked to provide information such as: ministry need, experience with lay ministry, a high-level vision and plan and a clear job description (samples provided – see Appendices).

In addition to reviewing the information request above, the parish’s financial situation will be reviewed to discern whether they meet the criteria for financial assistance.

The Application and Hiring Process

Action to be taken Who When

1. Fill out the application form

Pastor Date posted on website

2. Submit financial summary

Accounting Department

3. Review of applications Funding Committee Date posted on website

4. Review results shared with parishes (approved or declined)

Funding Committee Representative

For those approved:

5. Review details of granting process

Funding Committee Representative


6. Recruitment process:

- Contact Human Resources for General Principles and Guidelines

- Advertise the position

Parish

7. Interview and selection process:

- Screening of candidates - Reference checks - Offer made to top

candidate

Parish

8. Attend training for new LPAs provided by the Office of Formation for Discipleship*

LPA

9. Six month probation meeting to review and discuss performance, goals and areas of growth

Pastor and LPA Six months from date of hire

10. Commissioning Service. See Celebrations of Installation and Recognition (Ottawa: Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2005), 65-74

Pastor and LPA After completion of six month probation

For the Duration of the Grant

Action to be taken Who When

1. Submit Annual Review Report

Report submitted to Funding Committee

First report due one year after awarding of grant and at the end of years 2 and 3

2. Review of grant, goals and objectives

Pastor and Funding Committee representative

At the end of years 1, 2 and 3


3. Continuation of grant or tiered funding, with goal of full parish support after three years

Funding Committee to review financial summary for years 2 and 3;

Pastor and Funding Committee representative

At the end of years 1 and 2

4. Ongoing Formation*:

- Attend retreats and professional development days offered by the Office of Formation for Discipleship

LPA As required

5. Spiritual Direction* (recommended)

LPA As required

6. Mentoring* (recommended):

- Access to a mentor will be an invaluable resource to the LPA. The Office of Formation for Discipleship will assist in creating mentoring relationships, in consultation with the LPA and the pastor

LPA

7. Peer Group Support* (recommended):

- All pastoral ministers need outreach and support from colleagues. The Office of Formation for Discipleship will assist in the establishment of peer groups, who may meet on a monthly or quarterly basis

LPA

* All information shared by the LPA and his or her mentor, spiritual director, peer group support or the Office of Formation for Discipleship will be held in strictest confidence


The Next Step

The application form can be downloaded here: http://bit.ly/LPAsubsidyTO

Appendices

The Appendices contain the following pertinent documents:

A – Recruitment and Selection of Lay Pastoral Associates

B – Sample Position Description: Lay Pastoral Associate – Education and Catechetics

C – Sample Position Description: Lay Pastoral Associate – Family Life

D – Sample Position Description: Lay Pastoral Associate – Maturing Adults


Appendix A

Recruitment and Selection of Lay Pastoral Associates

a. General Principles

In recognition of our commitment as a Christian community to the dignity of the human person, all parishes are expected to be free of any discrimination in selection of personnel for reasons of race, colour, sex, marital status, disability, nationality, ancestry or place of origin. An exception to this last protected ground might occur if, for reasons of the requirements of ministry, a person with a particular ancestry or knowledge of customs/language of persons to be served has been identified as a bonafide occupational requirement. It is essential that the person selected has the ability to effectively accomplish the ministry assigned. Reasonable accommodation will be provided upon request. Because of the very nature of pastoral ministry, only practicing Catholics who are actively engaged in the Church community will be selected.

The recruitment and selection of lay pastoral ministers should be based on qualifications, fit and proven competence in the main functions of the role or similar work. Incumbents should be provided with a clear, written job description and clarity on how their performance will be evaluated (e.g., success measures, frequency, participants in process, etc.). This does not preclude the development of the ministry position as those involved become more appreciative of the needs of the persons being served. It is anticipated that any significant changes to the role expectations and associated job description will be discussed with the lay pastoral minister, prior to implementation.

b. Process of Selection

The recommended process for selection of lay pastoral associates includes:

1. Interview(s) by the pastor and a selection committee composed of members of the pastoral team and the parish pastoral council (or other appropriate persons). This selection committee might also, if appropriate, include members of the parish (or other) community the person is expected to serve.


2. Members of the parish finance committee will be consulted prior to the interviewing process to determine what finances are available for the position.

3. Selection criteria for determining suitability of the candidates will be determined in advance of the interview process.

4. A clear job description will be developed to help focus the selection criteria and to provide the candidate with a clear understanding of the expectations of the position for which they are applying. (See the Generic Job Description and the list of suggested responsibilities to be considered according to parish need).

5. After the interview(s) are completed and an opportunity for mutual discussion by the selection committee members has occurred, recommendations are made to the person(s) with hiring authority. Recommendations may include their choice of the top three candidates. If these recommendations are made verbally a brief written summary should follow so there is a record of the committee’s recommendations.

6. If the choice of persons most suited for the position is not clear, a second set of interviews may be held with the top candidates. At this point consultation with the Office of Human Resources may occur or candidates may be asked to participate in a practical exercise for the purposes of assessing fit. This may include completion of a questionnaire or requesting a brief proposal on how the individual would approach their first 90 and 180 days in the role. If no suitable candidates are identified the role should be re-posted.

While it is ultimately the pastor’s decision, if at all possible, it is important that the decision be supported by the pastoral team, parish pastoral council and others with whom the lay pastoral associate will be expected to work. Shared pastoral ministry involves ongoing collaboration and has a higher probability of effectiveness when there is mutual support.

Considerations for Selection Process

a. Requirements

• The applicant is a Roman Catholic lay person or Religious. • The applicant has the necessary education and skills to adequately carry out the

ministry for which they are applying. • The applicant is legally entitled to work in Canada.


b. Documents

1. Resume Outlines name, address, contact number, work history, volunteer work and educational background including diplomas and degrees received and any relevant theology/ministry courses.

2. Cover Letter The applicant’s cover letter should include a brief autobiography that answers the following questions:

a. What has shaped your interest in ministry? b. What is your vision of Church and Parish and how do you see yourself

contributing to that vision through your ministry? c. In what specific areas of ministry are you interested?

3. Accommodation Needs

Do you require any form of accommodation to participate in the interview process or to fulfill the requirements of this role?

4. Other Documentation • Copy of baptismal certificate will be required upon hire • Copies of all degrees, diplomas and certificates will be required upon hire • Letters of Reference: confirming your involvement in a faith community supporting your character supporting your potential for pastoral work


Appendix B

Sample Position Description

Job Title: LAY PASTORAL ASSOCIATE – EDUCATION AND

CATECHETICS

Parish:

Supervisor:

Date Revised:

Job Overview

The ministry of the Lay Pastoral Associate is comprehensive, relating to all aspects of parish life, with designated responsibilities (e.g. sacramental preparation, RCIA, pastoral care, social justice, or liturgy). The designated responsibilities are dependent upon the needs of the parish and the gifts of the pastoral team on staff and those of the Lay Pastoral Associate. Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist parish staff, volunteers and parish groups in spiritual development and formation. May develop retreats, in-services and prayers that foster faith.

• Assist in the formation of the entire community in understanding the parish mission.

• Collaborate with other parish staff in providing child, youth and adult religious education.

• Collaborate with other parish staff in preparation for parish sacramental celebrations.

• Assist in the preparation of children and adults with special needs in a way that promotes inclusiveness and pastoral sensitivity.

• Serve as a resource to other staff and volunteers in interpretation of Church teaching and canon law.

• Attend all pastoral council meetings, parish staff meetings and zone meetings, as appropriate.


Requirements

• An active faith life at a local Catholic church. • A Masters degree or Masters of Divinity in theology, religious education or other

degree with lay ministry training is preferred. • Knowledge of Catholic sacramental theology including current Church teaching

and issues related to RCIA, Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Marriage, Anointing and funeral rites.

• Parish based ministry experience of at least two years. • Skills in catechetics, public speaking, written communication and record

keeping. • Ability to facilitate large and small groups in prayer during liturgical

celebrations. • Ability to counsel and train individuals in Church Sacraments. • Knowledge of Church law concerning marriage and annulments. • Skill in interpersonal contact with the parish community. Must enjoy being

around people and be comfortable in sharing aspects of their lives with them. • Knowledge of the mission of the parish and the Church and can enable others to

live this mission in their own lives. • An understanding of and ability to use collaborative management skills.

The nature of this position requires availability for frequent evening and weekend work and the incumbent will have a variable work schedule totalling 35 hours per week. Lieu time may be accrued during busier periods with the pastor’s prior consent. In compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Archdiocese of Toronto provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with their supervisor and the Human Resources Department.

This Job Description accurately reflects the occupation of a Lay Pastoral Associate currently practiced at ________ in the Archdiocese of Toronto.

Pastor or Designate

Employee

Date


Appendix C


Job Title: LAY PASTORAL ASSOCIATE – FAMILY LIFE

Parish:

Supervisor:

Date Revised:

Job Overview

The role of Lay Pastoral Associate – Family Life is a newer role within parishes that aims to support families in being the domestic churches that they are called to be. This ministry includes strengthening marriages, assisting parents in raising their children in the Catholic faith and engaging families more fully in parish life. The designated responsibilities are dependent upon the needs of the parish and the gifts of the pastoral team on staff and those of the Lay Pastoral Associate. Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide opportunities for families to encounter Christ, deepen their faith and engage in parish life through prayer, formation, service and fellowship.

• Develop and provide programs, activities and resources that strengthen marriages or assist parents in raising their children in the faith (e.g. marriage enrichment, parenting courses, intergenerational events, Marriage Sunday events).

• Ensure that parish hospitality is extended to families, especially those with small children.

• Support families in fostering a culture of life that respects human dignity from conception to natural death.

• Coordinate and collaborate with other parish ministries such as sacramental preparation, youth ministry, liturgy of the Word with children, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, especially in relation to parent engagement in their role as primary educators of their children in the faith.

• Collaborate with diocesan offices such as Office of Formation for Discipleship and Office of Catholic Youth to share best practices, learn about resources to help with ministry and for formation opportunities.

• Establish and maintain relationships with Catholic agencies, lay movements or other similar organizations that provide complementary programs and services


• in support of family life, and refer families as needed (including Natural Family Planning, men’s groups, women’s groups, counselling).

Requirements

• Practicing Catholic in good standing. • Bachelor’s degree in theology, pastoral ministry, religious education, marriage

and family counselling and/or comparable fields. • Minimum of two years demonstrated practical experience in parish based

ministry related to marriage, family life and parish life. • Skilled at facilitating participation, co-responsibility, and collaboration. • Strong organizational skills, including time management, planning and

budgeting. • Community building skills that include strong interpersonal skills,

communication skills, and the ability to build an inclusive community for families within the parish setting.

• Ability to develop, implement and evaluate new faith-based programs relevant to the needs of families.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills. • Proficient with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint. • Able to work independently and as part of the team. • Able to travel, as needed, in the course of the position. • Volunteer management skills are an asset.

The nature of this position requires availability for frequent evening and weekend work and the incumbent will have a variable work schedule totalling 35 hours per week. Lieu time may be accrued during busier periods with the pastor’s prior consent.

In compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Archdiocese of Toronto provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with their supervisor and the Human Resources Department.


Pastor or Designate

Employee

Date


Appendix D


Job Title: LAY PASTORAL ASSOCIATE – MATURING

ADULTS

Parish:

Supervisor:

Date Revised:

Job Overview

The pastoral role of Maturing Adults Minister is a new, emerging role with the Church made necessary by the significant increase in the population in the second half of life (50+) and the reality of an increased life span within this population. It is motivated by the insight that as adults mature, their potential for spiritual growth increases. The incumbent will facilitate the ongoing spiritual growth and faith development of maturing adults (50+). The designated responsibilities are dependent upon the needs of the parish and the gifts of the pastoral team on staff and those of the Lay Pastoral Associate.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan, create/develop, implement and deliver programs directed to the faith development of older adults, including active outreach to persons who are not regular participants in parish life.

• Develop an annual plan for the ministry – setting goals, objectives and provision for a yearly review of the ministry.

• Foster a holistic approach in programming: addressing spiritual, educational, community-building and health related issues.

• Facilitate an advisory committee whose function is to advise and support the ministry.

• Recruit and train volunteers. • Provide supportive counselling when needed as well as spiritual guidance and

companionship. • Develop working relationships within the wider community e.g. agencies and

organizations who provide assistance and support to older adults. • Advocate for those who are in need in the parish and the community.


• Commit to ongoing personal spiritual development and further education regarding the ministry.

Requirements

• An active faith life at a local Catholic church. • A Certificate in spiritual gerontology with the Johnson Institute. • A Certificate or degree in theology. • Experience in the areas of spiritual direction, teaching, counselling and pastoral

ministry. • Knowledge of the aging process and its potential for spiritual growth. • Counselling and active listening skills, spiritual mentoring skills. • Leadership skills of group facilitation, collaborative management, and time

management. • Community building skills that include strong interpersonal skills,

communication skills, and the ability to build an inclusive community for maturing adults within the parish setting.

• Ability to develop and implement new faith-based programs, to assess and identify the needs of the maturing adult population.

The nature of this position requires availability for frequent evening and weekend work and the incumbent will have a variable work schedule totalling 35 hours per week. Lieu time may be accrued during busier periods with the pastor’s prior consent.

In compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), the Archdiocese of Toronto provides reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with their supervisor and the Human Resources Department.


Pastor or Designate

Employee

Date

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