It is clearer as change and stress escalate that leading of congregations is fraught with emotional challenge. Knowing where that challenge originates and how it works is valuable for those who have to face it constantly.
These ongoing seminars in natural systems theory are provided to assist leaders in knowing both themselves and the emotional lay of the land in the organizational systems they serve. Sessions will be structured to provide learning in systems theory (Murray Bowen and Edwin Friedman). Time will be focused on emotional systems (family, organization, community) and how to lead for success and change. We will also discuss family of origin issues as they relate to leadership.
These monthly opportunities to think natural systems are intented to form a cultural press to assist leaders in grasping the bigger picture as they face conflict, sabotage, and challenge. They are designed as a way of thinking for those who seek to lead change and survive.
About the Seminar
The seminar will take place on the second Thursday of each month from September 2009 to May 2010. The sessions will run from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and will be held in the Harrisville Lounge of Stub Hall on the campus of Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Mornings will include systems reflections and theory presentation on the way leaders must take account for their own relational strengths and binds as they lead at home, at work, and in the world.
Case studies of leadership challenges or problemsd will dominate the conversation in the afternoon. New theory presentations and family of origin observations will conclude the day.
Dates for Seminar
- September 10, 2009
- October 8
- November 12
- December 10
- Jaunary 21, 2010 (Third Thursday)
- February 11
- March 11
- April 8
- May 13
About the Presenter
Our workshop series leader, the Rev. Dr. John Martin Mann, seminary pastor at Luther Seminary, is a lifelong student of human behavior.
The educational credentials of Dr. Mann are impressive. He holds a B.A. in Social Sciences from Clarion University, a M.Div. in Pastoral Care from Duke Divinity School, a Th.M. in Pastoral Psychology from Duke, and a D.Min. from Wittenberg University and the Ohio Theological Consortium.
He has studied extensively in Faith Development theory with James Fowler and Family Systems Theory with Rabbi Edwin Friedman. In addition, he has studied with Peter Steinke and Larry Foster. He currently serves on the faculty of Larry Foster’s Clergy Seminars (a Family Systems Church Study and Coaching training process).
Dr. Mann has facilitated clergy groups in Ohio prior to coming to the Twin Cities. He is active as a consultant and clergy coach in the Twin Cities area and on the East Coast.
