The Diocese of Middlesbrough is inviting applications for the position of Middlesbrough Youth Mission (MYMission) Parish Development Officer.

Job Description

The Parish Development Officer is a new role in the Diocese of Middlesbrough, which will drive the Middlesbrough Youth Mission (MYMission) in its next stage of development.

MYMission envisages parishes that encourage and stimulate faith development in their young people and in turn are fed by the irreplaceable energy and creativity that young people have to offer. The Parish Development Officer will be at the heart of this process.

A faith-filled person with a missionary attitude will undertake this role with creativity and zeal. An evangelising opportunity, the post-holder will need to inspire not just young people, but volunteers and priests also, to ensure youth ministry is the work of the whole community. The post is initially envisaged for three years, during which time MYMission hopes to have created regular, quality parish-based opportunities for young people. 

Since its inception 10 years ago, MYMission has worked across the diocese with thousands of young people. Inspired by the writings of Blessed John Henry Newman, it seeks to help young people discover “God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have MY MISSION.” The next stage of this journey seeks to build upon this foundation.  

Principle tasks will include

• Support Diocesan Youth Chaplain in delivering a vision for young people through an effective strategy that enhances youth participation in parishes.
• Develop Youth Ministry in parishes through training and empowering local volunteers, establishing youth groups and facilitating the Diocesan Youth Council.
• Work with young adults to create a culture of belonging, deepen spirituality and produce a sense of mission.
• Collaborate with school chaplains through input/resources, particularly establishing links with local sixth forms.
• Enhance and develop MYMission’s social media and online presence.
• Organise, encourage and facilitate participation in threshold events such as Flame, where young people can hear the gospel message directed to them.

Conditions

Based in Middlesbrough, the post is a full-time appointment based on a core 35-hour week, with the expectation of evening and weekend work. The salary is £24,500-£27,500 depending on experience. Initial three-year contract beginning September 2 2019. Closing date for applications Monday June 17 at 4pm. Interviews early July.

Applicants are required to be a practising Catholic in good standing with the Catholic Church and have a full UK driving license and own vehicle. This role is also subject to a DBS check.

Person Specification

Essential Skills

• Experience working with young people
  • Knowledge of Social Media
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Able to work in a team

Desirable skills

• Formal qualification in either theology or youth work/ministry
• Knowledge of working in the environment of the Catholic Church

Personal Qualities

• A practising Catholic
  • Cheerful, flexible and resilient
  • Creative
  • Confident and responsible

For an application form, please email bishopsecretary@rcdmidd.org.uk or for more information, email FRPhilip.Cunnah@rcdmidd.org.uk