COVENANT 21 – THE LAST WILL BE FIRST AND THE FIRST WILL BE LAST
Jesus said, “Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:11 (RSV)
Within the Sacramental Community of the Coworkers of Christ, the concept of administration takes on a unique character, distinct from the hierarchical structures commonly found in the outside world. Here, the focus shifts towards servant leadership, fostering a sense of family rather than a rigid institution.
Instead of a top-down approach with a single leader dictating every decision, governance is distributed among various members. Individuals might hold specific roles, like overseeing finances or daily operations, but these positions are viewed as services rendered to the Community, not as positions of authority. Decisions are made through open discussions and consensus, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and ownership.
This family-like atmosphere is further nurtured by the emphasis on mutual respect and compassion. Servant Leaders prioritize the well-being of each member, offering guidance and support rather than issuing commands. Daily tasks are seen as acts of service, not obligations, and are often shared equitably among the Community, further strengthening the bonds of community.
Ultimately, the administration of the Community strives to be an embodiment of our faith. By prioritizing service, collaboration, and care, we create a space where individuals can grow spiritually and contribute to a shared purpose, fostering a sense of belonging and connection that transcends the confines of a mere institution.
When he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” John 13:1-17 (RSV)
Let those who have been placed in positions of servant leadership in the Community remember that they also take the same vows, serve under the same Common Rule, and answer to the same God as the rest of the members. The servant leaders of the Community must remain alert to the needs of each member. They are to be the facilitators who provide what is needed for individuals and families so that there will be neither excessive permissiveness nor denial of legitimate needs.
In particular, the Minister General is called to be, not a demagogue, but an administrator. They interpret and enforce the spirit of the Community, which responds to the voice of God as heard in open dialogue, under the spirit of obedience. The Minister General of the Community administers the spirit of the Community in trust and wholeheartedness.
Jesus said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave; even as the Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matt. 20:25-28 (RSV)