Let go and let God
by Randy Springer, Hopedale, Ill.
Regarding the proposed restructuring of Mennonite Church USA, I have several thoughts to share:
Our challenge is not too many boards and people living their gifts, but one of “overgovernance.” This model fits in the Kingdom of Christ from my experience. My eight years on the Goshen College Board are filled with wonderful memories and relationships, growth and trust, and personal caring within that group. What a wonderful way to be nourished and fed.
We need more people involved, not fewer.
Each of our institutions need people outside the circle of the day-to-day work routine to help with dream and vision. Classic corporate micromanagement serves little purpose for a governing board.
The largest hurdle we have to overcome is one of trust. We have to learn to trust that each group is led by the Holy Spirit and will follow. The structures by which we govern ourselves are crushing us under the weight of over management.
I see the Executive Board leading in terms of policy governance-type leadership as we all serve from the servant leadership perspective.
If we are trying to organize to save money, it seems to me to be the wrong basis.
We need people dedicated to following Christ serving in many roles. None of us are gifted in all areas of the service of the Kingdom.
A board charged with working with policy, dreams and vision will find new energy, experience new dreams and shared vision as they govern.
Look at the teachings of Jesus and the life of the emerging church in Acts. What general board made all those decisions? Paul and the early leaders had to let go and let God.
Associated Issue: Rest for the soul - June 17, 2008
Associated Article: All-boards meeting looks at proposal
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