Thoughtful Conversations,
Healthier Congregations
Join us for a “lunch and learn” opportunity to connect, support, and strengthen a network of faith leaders to develop a robust exchange of ideas based in systems thinking. Sessions will be held quarterly, online via Zoom.
The format of each session will consist of:
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Presentation (20 minutes)
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Small-group discussion with focus question (15 minutes)
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Closing group discussion with Q & A (20 minutes)
Cost: Pay what you can.
(Suggested: $5/Student; $10/HC Member; $15/Non-member)
Session 5
October 1, 2026
12:00 - 1:00 PM Eastern
Online via Zoom
"The Virtuous Leader"
Dr. Israel Galindo
In this lunch and learn, Israel Galindo will share insights from his recent book, The Virtuous Leader: Lessons from the Stoics and Bowen Systems Theory. The book weaves together two powerful frameworks: the ancient wisdom of Stoic philosophy and the modern insights of Bowen Family Systems Theory. The insights offer a unique approach to leadership that addresses both internal self-mastery and systemic awareness.
For example:
* How Stoic practices like negative visualization align with systems thinking to prepare for organizational challenges
* How to maintain emotional regulation during periods of high anxiety
* Ways to recognize and manage emotional triangles that undermine leadership effectiveness
* Ways to increase differentiation of self while remaining connected to your significant relationships.
Dr. Israel Galindo directs the Leadership in Ministry program of the Center for Lifelong Learning, Columbia Theological Seminary. He is an experienced academic administrator with a strong background in educational technology, leadership development, nonprofit management, and education policy. Galindo holds the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Adult Education and Teaching and has held positions such as Associate Dean for Lifelong Learning, Dean of the Faculty, school administration, and Chaplain. He has also worked as a consultant and served on advisory committees in the higher education industry. Galindo has authored numerous publications in the field of theology, religion, education, and leadership, including The Hidden Lives of Congregations, Leadership in Ministry, The Virtuous Leader, When a Pastor is Fired, Perspectives on Congregational Leadership, 60 Leadership Concepts, Case Studies in Pastoral Leadership, Reframing Ministry Leadership, Academic Leadership, and Leadership Pitfalls.
