Insights on Leadership (& Vision); and “How Wine, Whiskey and Great Food Saved my Soul: Finding Spiritual Fingerprints in the gathering of People around a Table”

Paul writes – John Hebenton, a good friend of mine from “over the hill” (he’s not, but he lives on the opposite side of some ‘mountain’ ranges that separate the Bay of Plenty from the Waikato) has some good things to say about church leadership and vision. Here’s an excerpt:

“…I see that on a smaller scale in churches, where ordained leaders have believed the line that they are the ones to come up with the vision, and then that becomes about them, and not the vision. This creates such unnecessary conflict and disillusionment. It is tragic. How can I be a leader that allows the vision to emerge from the people I am among, and to not make it about me, so that I am free to allow that vision to change and adapt over time?

As some of us wonder about new ways of being church, this will be a crucial thing to keep in mind.”

Read the whole post here. For those wondering about “new ways of being church” I’ve asked John a couple of questions about his recent visit to GRACE in London. I’ve also had the real pleasure of talking (a little – too little I’m afraid) about MOOT (also in London. See their blog here) with Mark McLeary (“Mooter” (is that what you call a member of Moot or are they “mootites”?), now resident in Belfast, but presently traveling the world – a journey that included time here in Cambridge (sorry about the ‘summer’ weather Mark – it must feel like an English summer!).

As some will know, Moot and Grace continue to inspire and nourish my dreaming… Also stopping by in Cambridge was the “the doctor” – Gareth Higgins (his book, here), described by someone else, as “a really intelligent, cool, funny, and kind Northern Irishman”. IKON in Belfast describe him as having left a “unique mark” on their community – did he spill something I wonder?

Seriously, a couple of good lads. Great to catch up with them both. As one them said [since last February, I’d add], "Cambridge has become a significant stop over for global pilgrims seeking wisdom and enlightenment." Good post-rugby world cup (the final) breakfast too, prepared by uber-chef Gareth (ably assisted by under-chef McLeary) – a sacramental high point of my weekend, up there with dinner the evening before.