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Servant Leadership - To Gather All in Him

Introduction
We live in a age when values and beliefs are redefined.  As a Catholic and as a priestly candidate I believe that changing phase of life calls for a deeper introspection of being the church
today and its leadership model. Christianity for long is known to be a contrast community. When the world is more and more embracing competitive and strong natural leadership, church gazes at the model of ‘Servant Leadership’, as a model drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus. This contextual theological paper, on ‘Servant Leadership’, is an attempt to understand the meaning, relevance and implications of this model.

The essay has three chapters. The first chapter deals with the summary of the three articles, provided as the study material. The second chapter deals with the method used in the contextualizing and the emerging findings. The final chapter reflects theologically on the findings.


Chapter 1: Summary of the Articles

1.1 An Effective Pastor- A Model for Spiritual Leadership[1]

The competent leadership is much sought after commodity today and most desirable leaders in this arena are Strong Natural Leaders (SNL).  Some of their characteristics are
i)                    visionary mind and forward thinking
ii)                  being energetic and action oriented
iii)                 courageous and goal or task oriented
iv)                 Paternalistic and ego centric.
They are often intolerant and indispensable. They lead by precept and power. In general their leadership style could very well be called this-worldly.
In contrast to this style, the author presents us with a Paradoxical Style of Leadership. This is based on the life and teaching of Jesus, explained through various imageries and metaphors. Leader, presented here, is a servant or a slave. (Mk 10, 42; Lk 22, 27) Jesus showed that true spiritual leaders are servants, first of God and then of people. Contrary to SNL, servant leaders operate from a spiritual plane than from the natural. This leadership places character above function, motives above activities, humanity above promotions, faithfulness above success and others above self.

1.1.1 The Example and Teaching of Christ
Jesus was a servant and was engaged in fulfilling his Father’s will. He often used Slave- Master metaphor to teach about servant leadership. We see his dramatizing of humility in Jn 13, 12-17, “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” He gave us a clear picture of what he meant by leadership leading for service.

We also see, how he gave a new orientation and common origin to all leadership saying, “For one is your Teacher and you are all brothers….for one is your Father who is in heaven”( Mt 23,8-13). A Christian leadership bases itself and flows from its master and Lord; it flows from the deep intimate relationship between God and human.

We find Jesus confronting the human desire to be Masters and present his disciples, the model of Servant Leadership, as the model of the Kingdom. Jesus also stresses on one important quality – being childlike, to be seen in a Servant Leader. One important aspect of childlikeness is purity of intention, without self interest and hidden motives. Jesus’ understanding of ‘the last will be first and least will be great’, presents a leadership which is deeply spiritual and operating from one’s depth. ‘Servant leader must shun pride and embrace humility and self sacrifice’ is the crux of Jesus’ leadership expectation.
1.1.2 Some New Testament Terms for Leaders:
The most common metaphor here is - Servant or Slave which translates three Greek Words – Dolous, Huperetes and Diakonos.

i)Doulous:
 It views a servant in relation to his master. Doulous is commonly translated as, “bond servant”. Paul calls himself and Timothy as servants of Christ (Phil 1,1). Paul sees himself being slave to sin and his relation to Satan was broken by his identification with Christ in his death. A bond Servant was not necessarily without dignity or authority. Jesus himself became a bond servant (Phil 2,7). We have instances where we find occasionally, slaves are put in a position of responsibility and command (Mt 24,25). In the parables of Jesus, the word Dolous is used to describe relation of men to God.

ii)Huperetes:
This word is used in relation to superior. Huperetes can be variously used as ‘servant’, ‘minister’, attendant’ and ‘helper’. Theological Dictionary of New testament gives the meaning of - willingly learning the task or goal from one who is above him. As a huperetes who is granted oversight of others, the servant leader must faithfully obey Christ’s orders and convey those orders to those who are under his care.

iii)Diakonos:
 Greek term for a slave is diakinos. Its root diako means to hasten after or pursue. Jesus said, ‘If anyone serves(diakonos) Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall My servant (diakonos) also be; If anyone serves me, the Father will honour him(Jn 12,26).
            From dulous, hupertes and diakonos emerge a picture of a spiritual leader as a bond servant whose highest goal is to fulfill God’s will for his life.

1.1.3  A Servant - Leader Is a Steward
Another metaphor for spiritual leaders is – Steward. The root of steward – oikonos means ‘a house arranger’. It pictures one who oversees and dispenses the property and goods of another. True spiritual leaders are stewards of the mysteries of God (1 Cor 4,1).

1.1.4 A Servant Leader is a Shepherd
            Another metaphor for a servant leader is a Shepherd. In our times, we find Pope Francis’ call to be shepherds who smell the sheep. Jesus was a Shepherd. Jesus saw himself as a Shepherd to his people. “I lay down my life for my sheep…. My sheep hear my voice…” ( Jn 10)

1.1.5 A Critical View
The article brings in Jesus’ model of leadership, in contrast with Strong Natural Leadership of the world today. Christian leadership bases itself on Jesus who led by example. His leadership was that of a servant and filled with humility. The number of examples that are sighted here point at one unique factor – that a servant leader is connected to his master at the depths of his being and operates from the depth. The aspect of Being is very much stressed over having which is normal in SNL.
The other metaphors like Shepherd and Steward too give us the idea of Christian leadership which is filled with love and care. Thus to put things together the leadership model presented here is – Love leading to service through caring for his people.

1.2  Jesus, the Servant who Witnessed[2]
As we see the author tries to present Jesus’ leadership for service, in terms of a shepherd. He says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep” (Jn 10,11). Through Jesus’ life we see that He feeds, nourishes, nurtures, comforts, corrects and protects His flock, the people of God. Thus, Jesus was a servant-leader. He taught and embodied leadership as service. “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mt 20,26-28). In the Christian realm, our leadership should be of servant leadership.

Jesus was a servant leader who served the will of his Father. Jesus’ mission was to be the Messiah, the saviour of the world. He served his mission by being as Suffering Servant, Messiah. Jesus did everything in the service of his mission i.e., to serve the will of His Father. He said, “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me” (Jn 6,38).

Jesus was also led with a vision of what things would look like when he completed his mission as the ‘Kingdom of God’. Jesus eloquently unfolded tales to help people to see that he was the chosen One of God. This He augmented by serving his followers through the episode of the washing of the feet (Jn 13,12-17); thus teaching them to do the same.

Thus we find seven timeless principles that described how Jesus led his life as a servant:
·         Jesus humbled himself and allowed God to exalt him.
·         Jesus followed his Father’s will rather than aiming at a position
·         Jesus defined greatness as being a servant and being first as becoming a slave.
·         Jesus risked serving others because he trusted that he was God’s Son.
·         Jesus left his place at the head table to serve the needs of others
·         Jesus built a team to carry out a worldwide vision and lastly
·         Jesus empowers his followers by sharing responsibility and authority with them.

Thus we see how the author tries to compare Jesus’ quality with the qualities which are present in the world especially in the other religions. Thus challenges us to lead a such a life where we share and respect each other.

1.3 Servant Leader is humble and balanced[3]
It is a comprehensive presentation by Most Rev. Thomas Menamparampil SDB Archbishop of Guwahati on who a leader is and what his qualities should be, and can truly serve as a guideline in our pastoral ministry.

In earlier times people used to look at persons like Alexander, or Caesar, or Napoleon who conquered nations and led their communities to high achievement as great leaders. Event today people like Bill Gates and George Soros have become icons for ambitious young men who want to be great achievers. James and John wanted to sit at the right and left of Jesus in his kingdom. Like in their case, the Gospel invitation to become a servant or a slave is not high on our agenda. Exercising effective authority and getting things done seems to be more attractive idea. But these are moments of self-evaluation for us priests when we would like to question ourselves whether the leadership we wish to offer is truly according to the mind of Christ.

Nicolo Machiavelli thought that the ruler should seek to be feared than loved. He should concentrate on getting things done, not entertain too many scruples, nor worry about keeping his word. He should be prepared to manipulate the minds of people when required, and not have any hesitation about being a liar or a hypocrite, as long the goal was achieved. However, the teaching of Jesus is directly opposite. For him, uprightness is everything. Humility matters. He asked those whom he chose to be leaders to place themselves at the service of others. That is the meaning of being a Christian leader. Martin Luther King said, “Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” Peter asks Christian leaders to serve happily, not for money; to lead others not by Lording it over them, but being examples to them (1 Pet 5:1-4).

Today, we realize that ‘followers’ also are leaders’. In this sense everyone is a leader and is leading all the time in hard-to-measure ways, if only their potentialities are developed. Heroism is not mere showmanship; it is something far more sober and real. The genuine heroism of a servant leader is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever the cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.  Abraham Lincoln said, “Servant leadership is all about character than style.” No one in authority today can get things done or introduce needed changes merely by issuing orders. Change comes when the followers desire it or seek it. We know from experience that people generally follow leaders with a vision, those who seem to see clearly where best to go.

A priest who has a vision is not merely constructing a church; he is building a people of community. It is great ideas and great ardour that touch human hearts. It is the sharing of one’s profound convictions that will bring people round to one’s beliefs. Leadership means inspiring people. People look up to leaders who are strong, convinced and competent, but who are also human. They respect those who respect them and place their confidence in them, those who take their ideas seriously. People admire a leader who is known for his objectivity, reasonableness and truthfulness. A leader must anticipate troubles, recognizing his own limitations. He needs at every stage to be equally ready for both success and failure. A servant leader is willing to take risks. He is prepared to fail and take the blame for it. But he learns from every failure. Thomas Edison said, “Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.”

A leader must be creative, break new ground and push into un-chartered ways. A leader must explore like a scientist, imagine like an artist or cultivate sensitivity like a poet. George B. Shaw said, “Imagination is the beginning of creation.” A leader may feel diffident about his intellectual abilities. But the intelligent is not necessarily the most creative. The leader must equip himself with every form of competence required for the ministry that he is engaged in: proclaiming the word, promoting social justice, counseling, organizing self-help groups, leading prayer-groups, or forming candidates to the priesthood. He must study, take notes, reflect, compare, apply his findings to the immediate situation, and explore and understand other areas that are related.

The priest’s achievement depends on his co-workers. When the leaders show enthusiasm, passion, and fervor, then these qualities spill into the lives of the members of the team. They take on responsibility for their common success. And they win. Pastoral care involves reaching out to the weak and the lost. Leader must listen to ordinary peoples’ sad stories. Listening means: paying attention with one’s senses, mind and intuitions and giving recognition to people. Leadership does not come from mastering a list of techniques, but it originates from knowing what one really is: from self-awareness, self-regulation, self-motivation, empathy, social skills. This self-discovery and self-motivation is an on-going process.

Chapter 2: Method and Findings
2.1 Qualitative Method: We used the qualitative method for our field study. The method included, that we had the initial discussion in the group.  The questionnaire was prepared to carry out the contextual study of the topic we are dealing with.  Here is the detailed questionnaire which was prepared in common in the class.

2.1.1  Questionnaire
1. Leadership in parishes is multi-layered and includes spiritual, moral, and social dimensions. What do you think are the most important concerns of leadership in parishes today? What are the competencies required for servant leadership?
2. Jesus, the servant is the model of humility. How is this aspect reflected in leadership in your Parish?
3. Do you consider the leaders in your parish as humble, available and service minded? Do you feel respected, inspired, and empowered by them?
4. How is your relationship with the leadership in your parish? Do you think it is challenging? If so how can you respond?
5. Griped by the spirit and inspired by the Word Church leaders are called to serve? Do you experience this attitude in their very action?
6. How do you find conformity between service and leadership in your parish? Give examples
7. His mission is our Mission. This entails a sense of sacrifice through love in action. Do you find a struggle in Church leaders to reflect His love in deed?
8. We are bound by our human limitations. Can you think of some areas that needs special attention?

The findings will come in these categories mentioned below
a. For change and transformation in parish leadership?
b. For service
c. To make this leadership more realistic?

It was a qualitative questionnaire, as that would be apt for our study of this topic.

Having prepared the questionnaire, we met the people, of three different age groups. They are People between 20-40 years, 40-60 years and people aged 60 and above. For our field study we visited St Ignatius Church, Khadki. Having met people and discussed with them our questions, we came back as a team with the data. Guided by Fr Konrad  Noronha,SJ we processed the data we collected from our field study. This processing through the method of………..helped us to come out with 4 findings, supported by peoples quotes and opinions. The surplus data was discarded.

2.2 Findings
2.2.1        Humble and balanced Leader
2.2.2        Witness of Life.
2.2.3        Effective Pastoring
2.2.4        “Shepherd with the smell of Sheep”[4]

 Now we present before you our findings as stated above, supported by people views we found during our interactions.

2.2.1         Humble and balanced Leader
In today’s world we need leaders who are balanced yet humble. In our field study we come across a young man aged 23 who said, “Yes, I consider the religious leaders in my parish as humble and service minded because they are always ready to help people in times of need. They are very understanding and cooperative. And I do feel respected, inspired and empowered by them because of their positive attitude towards the need of the society”.

And other person who supported the view by a woman aged 39 also said, “The leaders definitely come across as humble and service minded. The various programmes for the parishioners and the ready available do make the people feel respected, inspired, and empowered. However, there are occasions when the parishioners may be made to feel lacking in their faith- either in personal conservations or during sermons. The aim of the leadership should be not to point out shortcomings but to introduce them to the faith and help them find it their own way and time.

We also came across a view contrary to this by a woman aged 29 says, “No I don’t consider them humble and service minded, but they do seem available and ready to listen to what people say. Those whose views area acted upon feel respected, while others are left ignored. I do not feel inspired or empowered, but actually feel constrained to live by their rules and have no freedom to express myself.”

Another Youngman aged 21 also feels the same. “I see there is no balance. Some are very dominating, shouting and some are different and open in some priests, I see this balance and in some I do not see.

Thus we have come across as presented above- there are contrasting opinions about the humble and balanced leadership in the church.

2.2.2        Life of Witness
People have their own expectations of their pastors and leaders. The data we collected clearly tells us that pastors need to be a witnessing value though their life. We have a person aged 61 clearly articulated …”We know of St. John Vianney how he brought about the change in the society. Prayer is the foundation for everything. We need priests those who pray. They should cultivate a sense of love for the poor and the marginalized.”

We also have woman aged 38 who gave qualitative picture of a pastor, “Qualities for servant leader: Acceptance and respect for all, encouraging the people welcoming the other faiths in sharing and dialogue. Love for poor.”

            There are also expectations in line with priest also being – contemplatives in Action. A  senior man, aged   61 says, “Priest as servant leader, should be able to uplift them by not just giving them money but by spending time in their houses and listening to them and encouraging and motivating to uplift themselves socially”. And another person supports similar view as he says, “Church leaders involve at the gross root level struggles of people and build human communities”

Priest is also seen as a person who builds bridges among various cultures and languages. A youngster aged 22 says, “Most important concerns of leadership in parish: uniting the people of different language groups.”

Though there are lots of expectations as mentioned above, coming to the concrete reality people do find a struggle among the church leaders.  Another young woman aged 25 says, “There is a struggle in church leaders to reflect the sacrificial love of Jesus in their action. They do not visit the poor people; they are friendly to rich and higher class society. They neglect the poor. The gap between the poor and priest is increasing and an area of concern.”

Thus we do realize that a life of witness that is, to be Alter Christ, is indeed a struggle and an ongoing challenge.

2.2.3        Effective Pastoring
Is Pastors duty- 9 to 5? Or is it 24 x7?. The people we met give us an idea in this regard. A senior woman aged 65 says, “Priests think that their job is from 9 to 5 like that of office. But people look at them as to be available for 24x7. When people for their needs, there may be tendency for priests to come later on but they should be available to the needs of people. If priests are not there, at least somebody should be there. The role of priests should be well explained to the people”.

We have another/ different view from a man aged 61 who thinks, “Finally priest as a servant leader should be rated as successful not in terms of success by constructing the church or organizing the feasts but he should be good and successful in loving his people and know his people well and lives with the people and journeys with the people.”

Thus the people’s view clearly tells us that priest is not a professional employee who is bound by time rather he is a servant of Christ and his people and available 24x7.

2.2.4    “Shepherd with the Smell of Sheep”
Our final finding of the interactions with the people is, “Shepherd who smells his sheep”, where the aspect of service is very much highlighted. Like Pope Francis says, people too expect their priests to be a shepherd to them. To support this view woman aged 25 says, “Priest should know the pulse of the people and they should be concerned about the faithful”

 Smelling of the sheep also has a factor of deep understanding of the people and responding to their needs. A middle aged man   45 says, “A person should feel that priest is giving homily to me and solution through word of God.” And we also have another woman aged 32 finds a shepherd shouldn’t hesitate to approach his sheep. In her words, “at any cost Priest as a servant leader should not hesitate in asking for help from anybody.”

The important aspect emerging here is that priest is a spiritual leader who guides, enables and leads his people spiritually. According to a young man aged 29, “The most important concern according to me is the need for spiritual reformation. Compared to older generation, the present generations lack faith in God. There is need for a movement in parishes where the younger generation can come together and express their faith in God. A priest or leader’s life should be a model for them in their faith and that can make them stronger and consistent in their faith.

Thus the fact is as Pope Francis Says priest is a Servant Leader who journey with the people and closely walks with them and accompanies them.

Chapter 3: Theological Reflection
I am on our search to understand the deeper implications of Servant Leadership. It would be interesting to know from our findings, what does Servant Leadership really mean? What are its theological implications?

As I understand, it begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve first. Then the conscious choice begins to one to aspire to lead.[5]

I would like to base my theological reflections on the four findings from the field study.

3.1             Humble and balanced – Alter Christi
The above statement which emerged out through various opinions of people focuses on the important aspect of the characteristics of a Christian leadership. As said earlier in the summary, Christian leadership is for service and not merely for the exercise of power.

3.1.1 Humility: We live in a world where strong natural leadership is much valued, where perfection and authority play a vital role. But, before God nothing counts but humility and this requires of religious leaders to give space to God, to have something to do with interior experience of obscurity, to not know what to do.[6] Thus to be a humble person, one needs to depend totally on God. Christian leadership involving humility, points us towards the Calvary, where Christ humbled himself on the cross, unto death.

“Though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited but emptied himself attaining the form of a slave….. He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death – even death on the cross” ( Phil 2, 5-8). A leader hanging on the cross paves way to humanity, to be a contrast community with a contrasting style of leadership.
We live in a world where people like to own and take pride in their achievements. We find successful leaders who love to control and convince. Lao-Tzu writing about servant leadership in the 5th Century BCE said: “The highest type of ruler is one of whose existence the people are barely aware. When his task is accomplished and things have been completed, all the people say, ‘We ourselves have achieved it!”[7]
 Thus the important aspect of Christian humility focuses on derecognizing or detaching oneself from the result and able to see the work of God in his creation, being executed beautifully, in everyday living. Jesus in his teaching very much stressed the aspect of humility. Scriptures support the aspect of humility as a virtue to be sought after.

·         But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. ( Lk 22, 26)

·         Mk10, 35- 45 we see Jesus, responding to the request of the sons of Zebedee, once again stressed the aspect of humility and points at the deeper meaning and implication

·         If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. ( Jn 13, 14- 15)

Thus humility, after the example of Christ, is a deeper call to imitate him, today. I believe when people speak of humility in a priest, they are inviting a church leader or a pastor to be another Christ. The other important aspect we need to focus here is that being humble means breaking one’s own ego and moving beyond one’s own petty attachments. Thus to find God at the depths of one’s being, a place where there is no place for ego and pride. And having found God, help others too to do the same.
How does the priest cultivate this indispensable humility? The simple answer would be, as everyone else cultivates humility: by humble prayer; by daily reflection on his failings and sins; by humbly performing the menial duties and not looking for positions or places where he can shine. In the case of a priest there is, I believe, one distinctive path to humility, by not seeking to please; and when duty requires it, and it often will, being willing to displease. Thus we shouldn’t mistake between being humble and being a pleasing person.

The aspect of humility has also to do with the letting go of controlling and more and more flexible. Humility also means walking with the faithful not clinging on to the external power position.

3.1.2 Balanced: Every physical body has its own vibrations and others are above to feel them. A balanced person is a person who is integrated. There seems to be certain amount of restlessness within every human. Possibly this is part of the existence of every human. To be balanced in that sense is to be restful within oneself. Will that be really possible? As St Augustine puts it, “Our hearts are restless O Lord until they rest in you…”

As I see the aspect of being balanced very much linked to human frailty and the call to move beyond. The interactions that brought in the idea of ‘balance’, in a pastor very much focus on the human aspect, and call for human maturity and growth in our pastors. Thus it’s a call to walk though a rough path or a hard road, which is less travelled. It’s easy to yell at people. But to listen to them patiently even when their views and ways are not agreeable to us, needs courage.  This entails a pastor dying to his self and rising in Christ every day. “Suffering serves to establish a closer and more authentic relationship between mankind and God.”(Heb 12, 10)

Thus to be balanced is to be integrated and to be perfect. As Jesus says God alone is perfect and reaching that is a Christian ideal.

Therefore being humble and balanced the pastors execute their mission effectively. Citing the words of St Augustine LG 32 says “to you I am the Bishop and with you I am a Christian. The first one is an office and second is a grace”[8] This is indeed a call to be an Alter Christi.

3.2  Life of Witness – To be and to make disciples
The faithful expect their church leaders leading a life of witness. There are umpteen examples in the history like John Mary Vienney, Padro Pio and others who were exemplary through their rich spiritual life and service. The word witness, as I see from the field study is used in the sense that pastor should be a man of God by being open and respectful to other faiths and cultures. Life of witness in the opinions of people also means someone who is able to lift the spirits of people around him. Can we have a better example to this than our master and Lord, Jesus himself, who did not close the doors to anybody, including Samaritans( Mt 15,27).

     In the incident of raising Lazarus from the dead(Jn 11,38-44), we see him listening to their pain(Martha and Mary) and then refreshing them by re uniting Lazarus back to their family by raising him, ( ressucitation) and thus lifts their spirits at the same time manifesting that God is Almighty. Thus uplifting the spirit is not mere secular act, rather a spiritual intervention where god’s glory is manifested.

 Disciples also had a spirit lifting experience when Jesus walked on the water. But today the miracle is not to walk on the water rather dwelling deeply in the present and responding creatively to the crisis of the time. We are slowly moving from an age where cassock was valued over the person. We are into an age where person / pastor is judged by his character and not merely by his costumes.
I would like to discuss the mission command in this context.

 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Mt 28, 19) For long Church seem to have understood the mission command as baptizing people and growing numbers. But the fact is, that is only a partial command. We have forgotten the first and most important aspect of it. As Fr George Saurus Prabhu says, we need to focus on – ‘make(ing) disciples’. I believe making disciples is a greater and a harder task than merely baptizing them.

Pope Paul VI, in the  Evangelii Nuntiandi,[9] Chapter 2, tells us that “ Today witness is the way to proclaim the gospel. Each one of us must become a living Gospel which people in contact with us will read”

Thus putting things together, to be a witness is to be a disciple and make disciples. And that fulfils the mission command or the proclamation of the gospel. We are all invited to do this as the Samaritan Woman in the gospel of John did( Jn 8,1-11); she shared with others, the treasure, she found.

In our times we have several people who lived a life of witness, life of discipleship. I would love take the example of Bishop Oscar Romero,  who listened to Lord attentively in the struggling and suffering people of his. “I beg you, I order you in the name of God; stop the repression”[10],words from his last Sunday(March 23, 1980) homily tell us how helpless was he and yet how faithful to the Lord and his people. He knew that there was always the possibility that he might be murdered. He received death threats frequently. But he refused all forms of protection, and did not even bother to vary his daily routes. He was the prime target. Yet he argued that the poor people of the country whom he represented went without protection. Then why should he be any different?[11]

           In my opinion, he was a disciple who imitated his master and Lord who died a helpless victim’s death on the cross. Thus let us remember to be a witness is to be helpless as Jesus was and yet be hopeful.

Having spoken about the discipleship I would also like to make a mention that in the interaction with the people, there was also an undertone, to be open to other faiths too. We do see the hand of the Spirit where he is gathering all things in HIM gradually. Anonymous Christians (by Karl Rahner)  or the Unknown Christ of Hinduism by Pannickar, point at the mission field where the Spirit of God is at work. Over the years we see the Church recognizing these elements. This in other words to say, the doors of the Kingdom of God are open to all (while we do believe that Jesus is the Unique Savior (1 Tim 2, 5)). Nostra aetate 1, speaks of one human community with common origin and destiny in God alone. Ad Gentes 8 says, ‘ Whatever truth and grace are to be found among nations as a secret presence of God, this activity frees them from all stain of evil and restores to Christ it’s maker.’ Thus how ‘ Missio Ad Paganos changed slowly into Ad Gentes, in the church hierarchy, so is happening  now in the minds of the people of God. Dialogue is an important tool here. Dialogue also means mutual education. We learn from each other[12]. Thus it’s good for us to read the sign so of the time, which quietly point towards the gathering of all, in Christ as St Paul puts it. “ as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.”- (Eph 1, 10)

Thus to be a witness or to lead a life of witness means to be and make disciples; disciples from all people and being open to the work of the spirit. And one important aspect to be note in the life of the disciple is, Prayer. As Pope Francis puts it, “Without prayer all our activity risks being fruitless and our message empty”[13]

3.3   Effective Pastoring – part of the greater plan of God
How to be an effective pastor? The field data as tries to answer this question to some extent. The aspect of availability is very much stressed together with the being over doing. It’s quite clear for me reflecting on my own vocation, that a pastors work is not a profession which could be timed rather it’s a deeper invitation to be, a special vocation which cannot be time bound.
St Paul speaking of his inner conflict ‘for I do not do the good I want but the evil I do not want, what I do’ (Rom 7, 14-23).  It’s human to be tempted to be successful, which is often counted in terms of achievements, though often a pastor hears the voice deep within, to be. Jesus, clarifies Martha, that being with him has greater value than doing lots of things for him, when she complained about Mary ( Lk 10, 38-42). Jesus sent his disciples out into the world, only after they were with him for a substantial time. Thus being with him is an important aspect of the servant leadership and being an effective pastor and of being a desciple. By being with him or focusing on the being aspect than doing, one knows his master and also knows that one is a servant.
·         A servant is humble – does not attract attention to himself.( Mt 10, 24 ;  2 Tim 2,25)
·         A servant is diligent – actively working and not lazy ( Mt 24, 45-47)
·         Servant is busy serving ( Lk 17, 7 – 8)
·         A servant is obedient ( Eph 6, 5-6)
·         A servant is dedicated ( 2 Sam 15, 21)
·         A servant is watchful  - Alert and attentive to the needs of his master(Lk 12, 35-36)
Having known that one is the servant of the Lord a pastor needs to move out to his people. And I believe, the servant model will indeed be a great help in effective pastoral work, as it would make the other feel at home.

Biblical requirements of effective leader are Commitment, Conviction, Competency and Character[14](1 Tim 3, 1-13; 2 Tim 2, 1-13; Titus 1: 5-9; Acts 6, 1-6; Ex 18, 21-22). For an  effective pastoring there needs to have a mature emotional bond between the pastor and his people. Listening, empathy, healing, foresight, stewardship etc will help in effective pastoring.

Mother Teresa comes across to me as a perfect example for effective pastoring. No matter what our strategies are, what our talents are, we still may not become effective pastors. Here comes the WHY of effective pastoring. Mother Teresa at a crucial point found that call within her call. Effective Pastoring is a call, at the depth of one’s being. It can’t be forced. It’s God given. Only the one who has received much from the Lord can share with others (time and energy) And I believe, the personal call to the pastor is for a greater cause, which is part of the greater plan of God.

3.4 Shepherd with the smell of Sheep
Shepherd is one of the important metaphors used in the Christian Scriptures for leaders or pastors. Ps 23 portrays it beautifully. A shepherd knows his Sheep (Jn 10, 3; 14, 27). Shepherd is with the sheep. He’s available to them when they need him. (Lk 22, 27). A Shepherd leads from the front. He’s daring who also guides and corrects. He has a concern for the straying or lost sheep.(Lk 15, 4-6) Jesus calls himself a Good Shepherd ( Jn 10,11).

Dwelling deeper into the aspect of Sheperdhood, we come to the realization that a shepherd has a deep bonding with his sheep and they trust and recognize him and feel at home with him. As said above they are available and approachable to the sheep easily. Today the Christian leaders need to be available and above all approachable[15]

 In this regard it’s apt to mention the words of Pope Francis, who addressing the priests says, “The priest who seldom goes out of himself … misses out on the best of our people, on what can stir the depths of his priestly heart. … This is precisely the reason why some priests grow dissatisfied, lose heart and become in a sense collectors of antiquities or novelties — instead of being shepherds living with ‘the smell of the sheep.’ This is what I am asking you — be shepherds with the smell of sheep.”[16]

Scriptures also give us a similar call.
·         Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.(Acts 20,28)
·         Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; ( 1 Peter 5:2)

Opposed to good shepherd, whom the sheep love, are the Clerics. Pope Francis speaking about laity, “the risk that we pastors and Bishops, have to avoid is to fall into clericalism, which is a corrupted posture of the religious. The Catholic Church is all the faithful people of God, including the priests. When a pastor leads a diocese or a parish, he must listen to his community, to mature his decisions and to lead it in this journey. But when he imposes himself and in some way says, “Here I am in charge” he falls into clericalism.[17]

For the shepherd leader the product is the follower. When the sheep survive the hazards of the journey, when they grow strong, the shepherd has faithfully discharged his duty.[18]

In this context it is worth mentioning about the priesthood of Old Testament and the priesthood of New Testament. Old Testament priests were involved in separating the sacred from the profane whereas Jesus assimilated, brought together.[19]. That is the uniqueness of Jesus’ priesthood. Pastors today as the Shepherd Leaders are invited to gather and bring together. Here one important thing is that a pastor should understand the reality deeply. Having met and listened to his people, he should take them and form them as one fold. To understand the reality, we need to approach it with the gaze of the Good shepherd, who seeks not to judge but to love.[20]

         Thus a shepherd with the smell of the sheep leads his flock, in Love, with Love and to Love for God is Love (1 Jn 3, 8). Love is the driving principle.


Conclusion

Having gone through the meaning, relevance and the implications of ‘Servant Leadership’ model I come to the realization that this model is part of the larger plan of God to his people. Theologizing on the finding reveals that Servant Leader -being a humble and balanced, is a deeper invitation to the pastor to be another Christ in this world. Through the witness of life, Christ (Alter Christi) in the pastor gathers and reconciles all people. Effective pastoring results in building a strong bond among the gathered and finally pastor being the -Shepherd with the smell of the sheep, leads all in love to love, for God is love. I would see this whole cycle as a gradual process, leading to the ‘Eschatological union’.

Thus a pastor with the Servant leadership model will not only build a spirit filled church on earth, but also becomes an effective instrument in enabling the Kingdom of God on earth and takes part in fulfilling the divine plan of gathering all things in him.
I wish God gives me the grace to be a ‘Servant Leader’.











Bibliography
Books
1.      D’souza, Antony, Leaders for Today Hope for Tomorrow,  St Paul’s, Mumbai, 2001.
2.      Dupuis, Neuner, The Chrisitan Faith I Docctrinal Documents of the Catholic Church,  Theological Publications in India, Bangalore, 2004.
3.      Flannery, Austin, Vatican II-  The Conciliar and Post Conciliar Documents,  St Paul’s, Bombay,1995.
4.      Gaeta, Saverio, The Life and Challenges of Pope Francis,  St Paul’s Publications, Mumbai, 2013.
5.      Greenleaf, Robert, The servant as Leader, Paulist Press, New York, 1981.
6.      Joseph, PT,  Pastoral leadership and Emotional Intelligence, St Paul’s, Mumbai, 2010.
7.      Keogh Dermot, Romero – El Salvador’s Martyr, Dominican Publications, 1981, Ireland.
8.      Kulandai, A,  The Uniqueness of the Priesthood of Jesus,  Salatian Publications, Chennai, 2011.
9.      Menamparampil, Thomas, Never Grow Old, St Paul’s, Bombay, 2008.
10.  Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium, Carmel International Publishers, Kerala, 2013.


Articles
1.               Mcbride, Dennis, “The Biblical Model for Spiritual Leadership”, at http://www.yoyomaster.com/ministry.file/Servantleadership.html, accessed on 10.10.2014.
2.               Menamparampil, Thomas, “Servant Leadership”, in Oriens Theological Journal, 2011.
3.               “Pope Francis Quotes”, at http://ncronline.org/blogs/francis-chronicles/pope-s-quotes-smell-sheep,  accessed on 08.10.2014.
4.               “Pope Francis Quotes”, at http://ncronline.org/blogs/francis-chronicles/pope-s-quotes-smell sheep, accessed on 08.10.2014.
5.               “Pope Francis”, at http://ncronline.org/blogs/francis-chronicles/pope-s-quotes-smell-sheep, accessed on 08.10.2014
6.               “Servant Leadership”, at http://www.forbes.com/sites/hbsworkingknowledge/2013/05/01/why-isnt-servant-leadership-more-prevalent, accessed on 07.10.2014 ( No Author Mentioned)








[1] Dennis, Mcbride,  “The Biblical Model for Spiritual Leadership”, at http://www.yoyomaster.com/ministry.file/Servantleadership.html, accessed on 10.10.2014.
[2] “Jesus, the Servant” , (rest of the references are  not available)
[3] Thomas, Menaparampil, “Servant Leadership”, in Oriens Theological Journal, 2011, 3-30.( Issue  and Vol. No. not available)
[4] “Pope Francis Quotes”, at http://ncronline.org/blogs/francis-chronicles/pope-s-quotes-smell-sheep,  accessed on 08.10.2014.
[5] Robert, Greenleaf,  The servant as Leader, Paulist Press, New York, 1981,  1.
[6] Saverio, Gaeta, The Life and Challenges of Pope Francis,  St Paul’s Publications, Mumbai, 2013, 59.

[7] “Servant Leadership”, at http://www.forbes.com/sites/hbsworkingknowledge/2013/05/01/why-isnt-servant-leadership-more-prevalent, accessed on 07.10.2014 ( No author Mentioned)

[8] Austin, Flannery,  Vatican II-  The Conciliar and Post Conciliar Documents,  St Paul’s, Bombay,1995, 355.
[9] Neuner, Dupuis, The Chrisitan Faith -Docctrinal Documents of the Catholic Church,  Theological Publications in India, Bangalore, 2004, 491-495.
[10] Dermot, Keogh,  Romero – El Salvador’s Martyr, Dominican Publications, 1981, Dublin, Ireland, 2.
[11] Ibid. 82.
[12] Thomas, Menamparampil,  Never Grow Old, St Paul’s, Bombay, 2008, 159.
[13] Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium, Carmel International Publishers, Kerala, 2013, 189.
[14] Joseph, PT,  Pastoral leadership and Emotional Intelligence, St Paul’s, Mumbai, 2010, 23-24.
[15] Antony, D’souza,  Leaders for Today Hope for Tomorrow,  St Paul’s, Mumbai, 2001, 42.
[17] Gaeta, Saverio, Ibid., 56.
[18] Antony, D’souza,  Ibid., 41.
[19] Kulandai, A,  The Uniqueness of the Priesthood of Jesus,  Salatian Publications, Chennai, 2011, 98.
[20] “Evangelii Gaudium” , Ibid.,  100.

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