The issue of leadership has recently become a matter of considerable concern in the churches, in other religions, and in the political world. This book explores the nature of leadership and proposes a spirituality which supports authentic leadership. The book is addressed primarily to those who are called to exercise leadership in voluntary or non-governmental agencies and in religious organisations of all kinds. The author holds that they should provide a model of how leadership can be exercised more effectively and more humanely in the business world, in the public services and in politics.
The first chapter focuses on key biblical passages which provide a basis for a Christian spirituality of leadership. In the next two chapters the author examines various spiritualities which have been significant in the history of the Christian church. He brings out the surprising fact that there is a strong and consistent democratic tradition within Christianity, in which there is an emphasis on the dialogue of the Spirit with individuals and whole communities.
In the next section the author draws out key elements in the thinking of political philosophers and management theorists. This brings him on to the heart of the book where, drawing on all the previous material, he describes four different kinds of leader: ‘the lone leader’, ‘the emergent leader’, ‘the classic leader’, and ‘the power-hungry leader’. Next, he outlines five styles or manners in which good leadership is exercised, ranging from empowerment to inspiring and visionary.
The final three chapters and the appendix are devoted to a detailed study of one of the key issues for leadership, namely, techniques for individual and communal discernment and the use of intuition in making decisions.
Donal Dorr is a missionary who has worked for many years in leadership training and in running spirituality workshops. He is the author of eight previous books, including the prize-winning Spirituality and Justice, the widely-acclaimed Option for the Poor, as well as Mission in Today’s World, and his recent book Time for a Change, both published by The Columba Press.
- 55a Spruce Avenue
- Stillorgan Industrial Park
- Blackrock
- Co. Dublin
- IRL