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Pack containing one copy each of Leadership in a Synodal Church and Leadership after the Synod.
Leadership in a Synodal Church
A hopeful guide for anyone who is a leader, or who aspires to leadership, in the contemporary church.
This book explores leadership and culture through the lens of mission, synodality, governance, people and moral discernment. It concludes with practical proposals for the further development of leaders who will promote a culture in harmony with a synodal Church.
Leadership in a Synodal Church draws on a wide range of scholarship in theology, leadership, governance and organisational theory to offer, from the theory and practice of leadership, a positive resource for a Church journeying towards greater synodality. The authors honour their explicit intent in this regard. The chapters unfold logically, integrating good organisational practice with a theology of mission; the book is enhanced by practical examples and exercises for reflection. Above all, the book is written with an insider’s perspective with a great sense of faith, love for the Church, and hope for the future.
Leadership after the Synod
In this timely and thought-provoking book, two experienced educators and leaders reflect on the promise – and the unfinished work – of a Church called to walk together in mission, dialogue and discernment. Drawing on decades of experience in leadership, social sciences and Catholic life, Anne Benjamin and Charles Burford explore why the vision of synodality has proven so difficult to realise, and what must change if it is to take root.
With honesty and hope, the authors confront the gap between aspiration and practice: the uneven reception of Vatican II, the persistence of hierarchical habits, and the urgent need for better leadership, formation and organisational culture within the Church. At the same time, they offer a compelling vision of what a more synodal Church might look like – one that is inclusive, listening, mission-focused and responsive to the realities of the modern world.
Written for leaders at every level – ordained and lay – this book moves beyond theory to consider how real communities can grow towards their best selves. It draws on insights from the human and social sciences alongside a deep commitment to the Gospel, arguing that authentic spiritual renewal must be accompanied by sound leadership practice.
Charles Burford and Anne Benjamin are academics and Catholic educators who, between them, have about a century of experience in teaching, researching and practising leadership. Both have extended experience at Australian Catholic University and in leadership in a number of ministries and dioceses across and beyond Australia.
