Summary Article – “The Difference This Will Make”
Throughout my Officership I have been given many learning opportunities that have contributed to shaping me into the sort of leader God has called me to be. The Leadership Summit and Study Tour not only offered significant new learning opportunities, but also provided affirmation for my recent pursuit of personal and ministry development.
In evaluating “the difference this will make” in my Officership, I am caused to reflect on this experience as a another step forward in my journey, building on an existing foundation as well as equipping me for future service. I have gained a deeper insight into the role of a leader in the context of the local church, learnt new strategies to apply sound leadership principles, and observed innovative models of ‘integrated ministries’.
1. Deeper Insight Into The Role Of A Leader
Patrick Lencioni presented a session on “The Five Dysfunctions Of A Team” which clearly outlined the role of a leader within team ministry. He identified key issues that hinder effective teams and provided helpful strategies in overcoming them. I found his teaching directly relevant to the diverse teams that function within our Corps – Corps Council, Family Services staff and Thrift Shop volunteers, along with the other various ministry teams within our church.
2. New Strategies To Apply Sound Leadership Principles
Bill Hybels’ opening session entitled, “Passing The Leadership Test”, presented five tests for selecting potential leaders, based on Jesus’ calling of Peter in Luke 5:1-11. This session provided tangible principles that are applicable to all levels of leadership, inside and outside the church.
Andy Stanley spoke on “Making Vision Stick”, an issue I have seen challenge Corps Officers through to Territorial Commanders. He presented a simple, but effective, strategy for leaders to enable their followers (congregation) to embrace and own vision.
3. Observed Innovative Models Of Integrated Ministries
The four corps we visited in the U.K. demonstrated a variety of ministries that reflected the desire of each corps to reach their respective communities in a relevant way. Although the ministries varied between locations, they all demonstrated the effectiveness of holistic ministry, by integrating socially focused programs into the life of their corps. This affirmed my current ministry context and enlightened me to successful methods used to achieve the transition from ineffective ministry to vibrant growth.
