Leadership Style
I enjoy working with the big picture, envisioning the future, and seeking to improve the present. I listen to others, look for signs where the Holy Spirit is already active and leading others, and then encourage others to act, providing resources, knowledge and direction as needed. I discourage gossip and discord, and encourage everyone to speak up, while patiently, prayerfully and courteously listening to others. I will not take over committees or become a one-man show. I act more of a father figure than a mother, trying to get people to help themselves and work out problems with others rather than trying to rescue them.
Working with the Clerk of Session, I provide an agenda and a schedule of upcoming events for Session meetings. If committees are timely, all information for our business is distributed to the Session at least three days before the normally scheduled meeting. I encourage everyone to speak up, even when they are in the minority, and to patiently and courteously listen to others. I keep discussions on track, moving forward, not allowing them to wander or become abusive. I work for consensus, not unanimity.
Committees are to be responsive, open, reflective, and accountable. They should be concerned primarily about initiating, championing, and overseeing their programs, but not running the whole show. As much of the congregation as possible should be used in the work of the church. Committee chairs and a few others should not become burned out trying to maintain a program that is not being supported by the rest of the congregation. "Because we have always done it" is no reason to continue doing it. I help committees carry out their responsibilities by coordinating, scheduling, clarifying responsibilities, establishing deadlines, finding resources and keeping in touch. I will not take over committees, be a dictator, or become a one-man show.
I encourage people to be involved with committees, mission groups, and task forces instead of sitting back to complain about what other people are doing. We must spread the gospel, not gossip; build up, not tear down; encourage active outreach opportunities and experiment with programs and worship services, and not be worried about "failure."
According to Robert Dale's categories of leadership from Pastoral Leadership book, I am primarily a "Commander" closely followed by a "Catalyst." A Commander has clearly defined demands and high expectations, and generally places goals before relationships. A Catalyst tries to balance goals and people, and balance group and individual needs, is flexible, steadfastly committed to the group and process, and takes the initiative.