School holidays are a great opportunity to catch up with colleagues you have
worked with over the years – you may leave a school but you never leave the
people you have worked shoulder to shoulder with in the pursuit of educating
our young people.
And so we gathered for dinner and the conversation flowed. One of our friends
shared the exciting news that they have been appointed Principal. We began
discussing the demands of the position, her plans and priorities and the
spiritual qualities needed for an inspiration Catholic leader today.
As you could imagine there was a rich variety of ideas and it took most of the
evening to land on these. Here is the brief summary of the qualities we considered
essential. Perhaps some of these may resonate with you.
- They are committed travelers on the journey to God, finding God in the gritty
issues of life and growing through them. - They are humble and appreciate who they are in relationship to God and
others. This was my number one but not everyone agreed. Some found the
notion of humility is often seen as a weakness. - They accept and implement the role of spiritual leadership as a ministry of
service to those in their care. This is easy to say but demanding to live out in
the hurly burly of schools. - They acknowledge that the Holy Spirit is the principal agent working through
them, and that they desire to be always open to the working of the Spirit. They
work with and for others always. - They have a sincere respect, genuine compassion and a gentle patience for
those they serve, and a willingness to share themselves and their journey with
them. The words sincere and genuine were considered by all to be crucial.
We met quite a few imposters along the way. - They have a zeal for the things which lead self and others to God and are not
afraid to announce it. - They have the courage of the cross, to go on confidently in the face of
difficulties, trusting in the power of God. We are reminded of Saint Mary
MacKillop of the Cross and inspired by her courage. - They live with an attitude that fosters a closeness with God and offer a
meaningful proclamation of the Christian faith to those around them. Many
great Principals/Leaders do this effortlessly. - They have an enlightened understanding of what is involved in the journey to
God and a joyful wisdom to apply their knowledge to enhance the lives of
others. - They are aware of the extended Christian community to which they belong
and find opportunities to embrace others.
Virginia Ryan
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