I just finished reading The Catholic Vision for Leading Like Jesus by Owen Phelps, Ph.D (Our Sunday Visitor Publishing.) In his book, Dr. Phelps introduces what he calls S3 Leadership: Servant, Steward, Shepherd. He bases his insights on Lead Like Jesus by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges.
I found the concepts of S3 Leadership very intriguing. It almost seems too logical. If we want to lead like Jesus, we just need to follow his example. And his example focuses on being servant, steward, and shepherd.
Jesus had a specific vision for his ministry, to do his Father's will. Based on that vision, Jesus exemplified what it means to be a servant leader, to identify what others need and help them to fulfill their need. He was a steward leader in that he realized that all his resources, his disciples, his talents were gifts that he was given to use to share the Good News. And he was a shepherd who put other's needs before his own, ultimately giving his life for those he shepherded.
In the chapters of his book, Dr. Phelps presents and discusses the qualities of an S3 Leader, including integrity, humility, honesty, having and effectively communicating a vision, ability to challenge others to develop their talents in order to succeed.
I think this book is especially good for parents. After all, parents are leaders and they exemplify Jesus to their children. Parents truly are S3 Leaders. They serve their children, making sure that their physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual needs are met. They recognize the gift of their children and help their children to cultivate their personal gifts. They shepherd their children, often putting aside their own desires for the needs of their children.
The Catholic Vision for Leading Like Jesus is a fairly quick read. It contains eleven chapters of succinct ideas and information. It also includes asides drawn from leaders and leadership styles in the church and the business world.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who leads...and that includes just about everyone!
