Today I spent a very long, but good day listening to Nancy Beach and Nancy Ortberg discussing the topic of women in leadership in the church. (And I know that many of you were there as well, as we had deep, deep discussions re: Steam Punk.
I loved the day – not just because the two Nancys are so right on, but I got to spend some quality time with Jane Liddle (the Worship leader for one of Menlo Park Prez’s campus churches, and the leader of Tapestry – the rockin’ chick band) and Debbie McDonald, a cool chick pastor from Westgate church in San Jose.
Oh, women in leadership… I so wish that you all could have been there not only to listen to these two ladies who have been-there-done-that in the church, but to be in a room with maybe 300 women who love God and love to lead.
For those of you who were not able to be there – here is a list of the eight best things I heard at the conference.
- Help! I am a leader trapped in a woman’s body.
- Nobody ever calls little boys bossy.
- We need to learn to wait well.
- John Ortberg Re: Women serving in the church: “It is not an option for 50% of God’s kingdom to be sitting on the sidelines.”
- Leaders need to be the most self-aware people in the room.
- We want to keep making mistakes, just different ones.
- Almost every issue is a team issue.
- You don’t get the right answers unless you ask the right questions.
If you were there, I would love for you to share any bit of wisdom that I missed.
If you weren’t there, what is the best thing you have heard about women in leadership in the church.
Later on today I will have the give away for today.
Right on–to my sisters who’ve already responded
You’ve heard it said, “Behind every successful man is a wise woman.”
Well, as leaders in our churches, sometimes we’re out front. At other times, we’re hidden in the throng. We cannot, however, be a Leader or remain a Leader until we’re submitted to the Lordship of God and know our way to the Throne via our knees!
Hi Kathi!
It was great seeing you yesterday and chatting for a few minutes. I like your eight take-aways. My favorites of the day outside of the ones you already shared?
There’s something powerful about naming the gifts in others.
When criticized, we should say, “Tell me more.”
Leaders are only right about 50% of the time.
I am responsible for the rhythm of my life.
Don’t underestimate the power of just showing up.
And my favorite……..Put your big girl panties on!
Well being in leadership I have struggled over the years to be heard by certain groups who are very old schooled in their thinking. It has taken time but most are now aware that God didn’t call just a few to share His message but ALL. Praise God for the ability to change our ways.
Sounds like an amazing time!
If we presume to lead we need to guard ourselves very carefully. We have to have the highest standards for our own conduct while extending grace and understanding to others. If we serve in humility, as unto the LORD, understanding we are serving Him when we serve his beloved people, he will exalt us!
I would have loved to listen to all of those 8 things. I am certain just by reading this I need to be at the next conference.