We recently concluded our webinar series on “Managing the Assets of the Church.” Our last topic might be the most important one discussed so far – management of the laborers who toil for the Church’s growth and sanctification.
One of our panelists, Prof. Roberto Dandi (faculty member of our flagship Program of Church Management in Rome) mentioned a famous quote by Peter Drucker that has stuck with me:
“Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”
This quote is not belittling the importance of strategy, rather, it is a reminder that without a positive and empowering culture an organization does not have the qualities to implement a long-term strategy and cannot succeed.
This is just as true in the Church – if Church leaders cannot effectively look after the people that work for her, finding their strengths and helping them grow and feel connected, parishes, ministries and, ultimately, all individuals within the Church pay the price.
A strong Church needs strong faithful, but the faithful can only be strengthened through the Church. Faithful leadership and good management go hand in hand. Good management not only creates a positive and healthy culture, it also makes better leaders, creates transparency and empowers the laity to work for the growth and success of the parish or ministry.
We are very grateful to the Fitzgerald Institute of Real Estate at Notre Dame for partnering with us to create this series. We want to also acknowledge all our panelists who shared their experiences and knowledge with us.
You can re-watch the series here.
Pia de Solenni, SThD
Dr. de Solenni is President & Executive Director of the Global Institute of Church Management. She is a theologian, ethicist, and cultural analyst. She recently served as Chancellor of the Diocese of Orange, California, and Theological Advisor to the Bishop. Her work has appeared in various publications including The Wall Street Journal Europe, The Washington Post, National Catholic Reporter, Our Sunday Visitor, and National Review Online. She is also a consultant member of the Pontifical Academy of St. Thomas Aquinas.
