To lead is to serve.

We know that Jesus came to serve and not be served and so servant leadership is the model of the Church.  All those in leadership at any level must always remember they are only stewards of what has been given them for the service and the good of others.  Any individual or committee must remember that they serve because there is a need that must be met and it must be met in generosity and humility.  Servant leadership is a gift and a responsibility not an entitlement.  This is all summed up nicely in the invocation prayer of Archbishop Chaput, OFM Cap.

"God of justice and mercy, thank you for the gift of life, and the opportunity to serve the people of our city. Help us to act with character and conviction; help us to listen with understanding and good will; help us to speak with charity and restraint.

 Give us a spirit of service. Remind us that we are stewards of your authority. Guide us to be the leaders your people need. Help us see the humanity and dignity of those who disagree with us, and to treat all persons, no matter how weak or poor, with the reverence your creation deserves.

 And finally Father, renew us with the strength of your presence and the joy of helping to build a community worthy of the human person. We ask this as your sons and daughters, confident in your goodness and love.  Amen.”

Charles J. Chaput, OFM Cap.
Archbishop of Philadelphia
Invocation before the City Council
Philadelphia City Hall
20 October 2011