Director of Pastoral Care

Sample Job Description — Director of Pastoral Care

Position Title: Director of Pastoral Care
Responsible To: Administrative Representative
Department: Pastoral Care

I. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The director of pastoral care is responsible for the development and implementation of a continuum of pastoral services aimed at meeting the goals and objectives of the department. These services are available to all patients/residents/clients, families, and staff. In this pursuit, the director is responsible to administration for the economic and human resources of the pastoral care department.

II. QUALIFICATIONS

A. Education

1. Minimally, a bachelor’s degree is required. Ideally, a graduate degree in a related field is appropriate.
2. The director has experienced formal training within a management or curriculum setting.

B. Training

1. 1. Certification by an appropriate clinical pastoral agency and ongoing advanced training in theology, management, or clinical or pastoral skills
2. Two years of clinical pastoral experience in a healthcare setting
3. Cooperative relationship with persons of varying faith traditions or of no tradition
4. Knowledge of and support for the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Facilities
5. Training in public speaking (bilingual where required)

C. Personal Requirements

1. Solid standing within his or her denomination, as evidenced by ecclesiastical endorsement
2. Demonstrable value placed on the importance of working as a team both within and out side the department
3. Good health and socialization skills
4. Ability to be assertive yet flexible
5. Ability to exercise the authority of the position while knowing how to delegate

III. JOB DUTIES

The director is responsible for:
A. Implementing the institution’s mission and philosophy as it relates to the pastoral care department
B. Annually developing the departmental goals and program objectives in discussion with members of the pastoral care team
C. Implementing a continuum of pastoral services for patients/residents/clients and staff
D. Overseeing the staffing, development, evaluation, and education of members of the pastoral care team
E. Maintaining a process of theological reflection
F. Providing the human and fiscal management of the department
G. Attending and participating in department head meetings
H. Ensuring that adequate worship services are available to the patient/resident/client population
I. Hosting area church leaders and, when possible, being involved within the area ministerial council
J. Accepting daily pastoral care responsibilities when required
K. Representing the institution pastorally to the local community, including public speaking and attendance at social gatherings
L. Conducting educational programs regularly for the staff, including programs for the medical staff
M. Establishing a working and reporting relationship with the diocesan office
N. Consulting with administration, especially in the areas of policy formation and changes within pastoral care services
0. Evaluating pastoral personnel (including volunteers) and services
P. Incorporating pastoral care into the ongoing organizational life of the facility

 

IV. JOB ACCOUNTABILITY

The director is supervised and managed by the administrator or a representative of administration. The director is evaluated annually and is responsible for submitting reports on departmental activities as required. The reporting relationship between the director of pastoral care and his or her administration should be consistent with that of the other departmental directors.