We have shared ideas about traditioned innovation, vibrant institutions, reconciliation, adaptive leadership and thinking institutionally. We have played together and prayed together. We have read good books – and shared the knowledge we have gleaned together. We have shared meals and fellowship. We have learned the value of telling stories, while sharing our stories one with another. We have grown and learned from one another.
In the midst of it all – I am reminded of how “big” and vibrant the Church is in all its manifestations. I am reminded that the Kingdom embraces various aspects of leaders and leadership to cultivate and direct faithful institutions in the work of the Kingdom.
I have developed friendships with Adrienne, Herb, Wes, Kirsty, Rob, Keith, Phil, Sarah, Kate, Laura, Nicole, Kevin, Sharon, Kiely, and Elizabeth – not to mention leaders from DUKE including Bill, Tamara, and Dave.
I have come in direct working relationship with key persons from various institutions and from places around the U.S. including: Notre Dame Mission Volunteers, Nehemiah Christian Center/Apex School of Theology, Reformed Church in America , First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte, Presbyterian Church (USA), General Assembly Mission Council, Western's Center for Continual Learning Western Theological Seminary, North Avenue Presbyterian Church, Columbia Theological Seminary, Hope College, Massachusetts Council of Churches, United Church of Christ, Iowa Conference, Calvary Baptist Church of Denver, CUE (Chicago-United-Eden) Seminaries, Bethany Theological Seminary, and the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts.
Together we have discerned the following list of things that constitute the most vibrant issues for vibrant, engaged, living, institutions. As you will see from this comprehensive list – the responsibilities for faithful institutions is not simple or easy. But, vibrant institutions can become reality and I hope to be part of vibrant institutions and vibrant communities of faith for my entire life’s journey.
Our list (in no particular order) – What makes a Vibrant Institution:
Empowering
Wooing/Inviting
Provide a place to stand/foundation
Longevity
Spirit-led
Strong individuals
Generational
Perseverance in darkness
Clear mission
Articulated purpose
Insight
Clear values
Practical application
Action oriented
Disciplined – communal participation
Vision bigger than self
Nurturing
Embody Trust
Connecting
Diversity
Cast articulate clear vision
Rhythm/order
See beyond self
Accessible
Clear communication patterns
Clarity of mission
Connect to history but not bound by it
Process of initiation
Welcome newcomer with open arms
Stories of success
Dependability
Room to be vulnerable
Clear expectations
Initiation
Sense of history
Marks of distinction from other institutions
Sharing burdens
Clarity about what institution is not
Owning brokenness
Mentoring
Nurture, Challenge
Agents for transformation
Access to things
People to encounter
Ritual
Extravagant welcome
Spirit
Makes demand on and for
Forms my lifestyle and habit
Commitment
Fun
Laughter
Encourage people to improve
Evolution and Adaptation
Equality
Listening
Teachers of tradition bearer of ritual
Rethink power structures
Mobility
Portability
Engaging physically, emotionally intellectually and spiritually
Hospitality
Accountability
Clear communication patterns
Relational vitality
Trust
Ability to resolve conflict
Grace
Reconciliation forgiveness experienced
Love and care
Laughter and playfulness
Honor word
Ritual symbols
Training preparation learning
Nurture
Bearers of traditions
Laboratories for learning
Incubators for leadership
Forms and structures our traditions
Cultivate thinking communities
Mentors and disciples
Clear vision
Right people
Acquired wisdom
Healthy turnover
Space for innovation
Places of reconciliation hope and lament
Foster relationships
Build on and pas on knowledge across generations
Convey a craft culture around along with their ends
Broaden and add to the lives of those they serve
Exists for more than themselves
Inspiring trust
Outwardly focused
Innovative
Sense of joy
Emerging leader focused
Activists
People oriented
Leadership form among
Challenging
Pushing
Community identity voice
Holding place
Transition
Ask questions
Purposeful
I felt empowered
Afforded a voice
Life giving
Autonomous
Financially support
Flexible
Sustainable
Dialogue
Everyone has a place at the table
Know my name
Institutional memory
Dream makers – spread and sending
Forward thinking
Personal
Inspire loyalty and stewardship
Sense of well defined identity
From the shadows to the future
Raising leaders from within
Accountability - mechanisms in place
Encourage change, risk
Admit brokenness
Atone – take action
Connect to context in ways that work for them
Portability – transcendent
It has a story – compelling narrative. If you can’t tell the story of your organization in a way that is compelling, it will die – not thrive.
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Now I must journey on with these insights!
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