Position Summary

St. Stephen Catholic Church is seeking a licensed Marriage and Couples Counselor to accompany
engaged couples through marriage preparation. The ideal candidate is a faithful Catholic who values
the Sacrament of Marriage, brings professional counseling experience, and can guide couples with
warmth, respect, and clarity.

Responsibilities

  • Meet with engaged couples to complete the required marriage preparation documentation, including
    applications for dispensations and special permissions, as applicable.
  • Provide couples with access to the premarital inventory, review the results with them, and
    facilitate discussion to support their preparation for the Sacrament of Matrimony.
  • Guide couples through the parish and diocesan marriage preparation process, ensuring completion
    of all required components, including Natural Family Planning instruction and the Diocesan Journey
    to Matrimony retreat.
  • Provide couples with marriage preparation materials, including the marriage planning booklet,
    retreat schedules, informational pamphlets, and other resources to support their preparation.
  • Assist couples in coordinating the necessary arrangements for their wedding, including
    confirming their wedding date and ensuring timely planning of the wedding liturgy and music in
    collaboration with the appropriate parish personnel.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of couples’ personal information and work collaboratively with
    parish clergy and staff to ensure a supportive, organized, and comprehensive marriage preparation
    experience.
  • Perform additional duties related to the marriage preparation ministry as needed and as directed
    by the Pastor.

Qualifications

  • Current license as a marriage and family therapist or counselor, as required by the State of
    Florida
  • Experience in couples or premarital counseling
  • Catholic values, with respect for Church teachings on marriage
  • Strong communication, organization, and follow-up skills
  • Compassion, discretion, and professionalism when working with couples
  • Completion of Safe Environment training and fingerprinting, as required by the Diocese of St.
    Petersburg

Candidate must successfully pass a Level II FBI Background Screening and complete Safe Environment Training prior to employment.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit your application and resume detailing your relevant experience and qualifications to Lisa Lopez at Lisa@ststephencatholic.org