Identity and Effectiveness in the Twenty-first Century

It is an urgent moment for the church, for its mission and its leadership. Mission has become the identifying framework and purpose of the body of Christ in the twenty-first century. Mission itself requires faithful, committed, and effective leadership. Such leadership has marks and characteristics that can be probed and enhanced. The Episcopal Church has a mixed record in developing and encouraging leadership for mission today. There is a general awareness that we must have effective leadership, and some good beginnings have been made. However, there is a gap between awareness and necessary development of leadership. The question: Will this church take leadership for mission more seriously and implement strategies for leadership development in a variety of meaningful ways? The moment is critical. The possibilities and opportunities are abundant. How can we envision and develop leadership that serves and expands the mission of the sovereignty of God?