Event Coordinator

Job Description

The Event Coordinator plays a vital role in planning and executing events that support the mission of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This includes conferences, liturgical celebrations, pilgrimages/processions, retreats, fundraising, and intra-Shrine events. The Shrine looks forward to opening the Saint Juan Diego Pilgrim House in the Spring of 2027. The Event Coordinator will play a vital role in incorporating current and new Shrine conferences, events, and retreats into the Pilgrim House. The Event Coordinator works closely with the Hospitality Manager to bring events and retreats to life within the Pilgrim House. The Event Coordinator is responsible for event planning, coordination, logistics and execution, while the Hospitality Manager remains responsible for the overall hospitality and guest experience. The ideal candidate combines strong organizational and interpersonal skills with a passion for ministry and service in the Catholic tradition.
Key Responsibilities
• Plans, coordinates, and executes the logistics of most Shrine-sponsored events, including but not limited to conferences, spiritual retreats, feast days, and Shrine staff- and volunteer-related events.
• Communicates with the Director of Sacred Liturgy, coordinating events which support various liturgical celebrations throughout the year.
• Plans and coordinates events and retreats held at the St. Juan Diego Pilgrim House, working closely with the Hospitality Manager to ensure seamless coordination between event requirements and Pilgrim House hospitality operations.
• Coordinates and oversees events to ensure smooth operations and a welcoming experience for all attendees.
• Ensures all events comply with Church guidelines and respect the sacred nature of the Shrine.
• Collaborates with the Communications Department to promote events through parish bulletins, social media, email, and the Shrine website.
• Assists in developing budgets and tracking expenses for events.
• Manages registration processes, vendor relationships, permits, and supplies.
• Develops event ideas targeting certain groups within and outside of the Catholic Church and, with the Communications Department, markets the events.
• Works with the Director of Shrine Operations and other department directors to establish an annual Shrine event calendar.
• Collaborates with clergy, staff, volunteers, and external vendors to ensure that events are aligned with the mission, are reverent, and are executed effectively.
• Works with the Volunteer Coordinator to recruit, train, and schedule volunteers for events as needed.
• Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.
Qualifications
• Practicing Catholic in good standing with a strong understanding of the Catholic faith and liturgical life.
• 2-3 years of event planning or coordination experience, preferably in a Catholic or non-profit setting.
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan, organize and execute multiple events and projects from initial conception through completion.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a service-oriented mindset.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and Holy Days as required for events and retreats.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic event management software.
• Ability to speak, read, and write in Spanish is a plus.
• Valid driver's license
Working Conditions
• Primarily on-site at the shrine with some local travel for errands and supplies
• Lifting or physical setup for events may be required.

About the Employer

The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin, faithful to the message of the Blessed Virgin Mary through her appearances on the American continent in 1531, serves the spiritual needs of those who suffer poverty in body and soul. It is a place of ceaseless prayer for the corporal and spiritual welfare of God's children, especially those in most need.