Perspectives on Congregational Leadership: Applying systems thinking for effective leadership

In sociology the term positive deviance identifies the behaviors that bring about effectiveness and success in those situations where something that should not work, does. At heart positive deviance answers the question, all things being equal, why do some congregational leaders succeed, when others do not? Grounded in Family Systems Theory, this book will challenge congregational leaders to consider a different perspective that can bring about a change in thinking about the nature of congregational leadership. All things being equal, how can a leader be a positive deviant for effectiveness, success, and congregational health? For over fifteen years the author has taught about leadership in a seminary context, served as consultant to hundreds of individuals and congregations, and has served on the faculty of the Leadership in Ministry Workshops, a continuing education program for clergy leadership. He has trained leaders from across the country in a different way of thinking about the ministry of leadership.

In this book Galindo combines in-depth insight into the basics of BFST and the theory s application to leadership, while always maintaining the vital connection between theory and practice. --Lawrence Matthews, Coordinator, Leadership in Ministry Workshops

Israel Galindo offers his usual provocative perspective on ministry. Written in bite-size segments, church leaders will find much to reflect on for their own growth. The way of leadership he describes is a road less traveled, but those leaders and congregations who take this way will be better off. So will the church at large. --Margaret Marcuson, author, Leaders Who Last: Sustaining Yourself and Your Ministry (Seabury Books).

Galindo challenges conventional perspectives on what it means to be a pastoral leader. Practical and powerful is how I'd describe this book. --T. Scott Anderson