Learned Optimism (Vintage, 2006) One of the consequences of the synodical call process is an inherent learned helplessness. In our synodical culture, unlike the secular world, it is not considered proper to aggressively seek employment. When an individual exhibits learned helplessness, problems are viewed as personal, pervasive and permanent. Good things, in contrast, are seen […]
The Peacemaker, Third Edition (Baker Books, 2004) The peacemaker approach to resolving conflict centers around what Ken Sande refers to as the Four G’s: Glorify God Get the log out of your own eye Gently restore Go and be reconciled The Four G’s are undergirded by the foundational G, the Gospel. The Gospel makes it […]
The Way of the Heart (Random House Publishing Group, 2003) Henri Houwen bases this book on the teachings of St. Anthony and the Desert Fathers (and Mothers). They were hermits, ascetics, monks and nuns who lived in the Egyptian desert beginning around the third century AD. Nouwen describes connecting to God via three stepping stones: […]
The Wounded Healer (Image, 1979) Henri Nouwen calls those in ministry to articulate the suffering in their own hearts, creating space for the Holy Spirit to enter and leading to the development of compassionate leadership as they recognize their woundedness porvides a common bond for renewed ministry and hospitality to others. Father Nouwen states that […]