In five sections, this handbook provides information for directors of religious education (DRE's) in Catholic schools covering the catechetical ministry and the DRE, the functions of the DRE, hiring procedures, compensation and benefits, and evaluation. Section 1 discusses catechesis in the Church today, the DRE as minister of the Word, and fundamental qualities suggested by authoritative Church documents to be characteristic of the life and work of the DRE. Section 2 explores the functions of the DRE in the parish community, policy-making and management responsibilities, and the three major roles generally accepted as designating parish leaders in religious education programs: director of religious education, coordinator of religious education, and administrator of religious education. Section 3 advises prospective DRE's on methods of choosing a parish, job interviews, and contracts. Section 4 offers a rationale for providing adequate compensation for DRE's and examines specific provisions of a comprehensive job description (salary, personal and professional benefits, and working environment). Section 5 discusses evaluation of the DRE by and for the parish community and the DRE's responsibility in evaluation. Five appendixes provide a bibliography, parish profile, methods for developing a job description, projected budget, and sample salary scales. (PB)