In 2007, I visited Willow Creek for youth ministry leaders conference. The conference was a service of the Willow Creek Association (WCA), the arm of the ministry that exists to support other churches and ministries. I was impressed by the existence of WCA because as a church, Willow Creek was so confident in its role in the development of other ministries.
WCA was just one part of the entire operation at Willow Creek. It was apparent that Hybels was not the center of attention. He was concerned with growing a church of active leaders who were connected passionately to the vision of the church. It was apparent that the members were empowered to fulfill their individual life visions through their contributions to develop the church as a whole. The approach seemed to be a model for every organization to follow: this understood symbiotic relationship where a leader uses his abilities to develop others and to provide opportunities for others - who are committed to the success of the leader's visions because the leader's success is derived from the success of the people.
For two years, I led the middle school youth ministry at my church. I followed Hybels' example and focused on the empowerment of the adult volunteers who served in the ministry. At the end of my term as leader, I was given a lot of positive feedback from the volunteers. Most of them shared how great it was to work with me because their individual gifts and talents were activated and they were able to grow in their various capacities. I also use this approach in my classroom by allowing the students to select semester projects that incorporate the course curriculum and their individual interests.
I want to continue this leadership style to develop educational, business and ministry ideas that I have.
Katina,
ReplyDeleteYour description of WCA and its approach offers insight into an extraordinary mission. You have articulated the vision in a way that takes the ego out of the equation. For an organization to understand the symbiosis between the leadership and one’s supporters is a capacity not appreciated in most circles. Your passion for developing the talent in your students and youth ministry is apparent. You have a powerful message and your audience is fortunate to have you. Continue to draw from examples you found at WCA. You demonstrate that leadership is a quality that comes with great responsibility. Thanks for sharing.
Peace and blessings,
Tracy Anderson