Definition of Spiritual Leadership
Spiritual leadership is a characteristic that is looked for in church leaders of many faiths including pastors, elders, rabbis, and priests. Congregations of many religions depend upon their leaders to demonstrate spiritual leadership in times of crises as well as times of transition and growth.
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Willingness to Serve
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Spiritual leadership is demonstrated through service. Leaders of the church--pastors, rabbis, priests, and monks are to lead through serving. This is done by visiting the sick and bereaved and helping those in need, whether physical or spiritual.
Peace-loving
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Spiritual leadership needs to be evidenced during times of conflict. The congregation may be split over a position of doctrine or a practical issue such as style of worship or selection of a staff member. The pastor and deacons show their spiritual leadership by promoting peace and reconciliation and not taking sides.
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Trustworthy
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Spiritual leadership can also be seen in the trustworthiness of church leaders. Members and non-members of the church need to be able to confide their problems and concerns without fear of private information being made public. This is true of the priestly role of the confessional; however, most religious faiths have a system of confidentiality in which its adherents need to be able to trust.
Honorable
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Spiritual leadership can be seen in the integrity of the person. Church leaders are looked upon for guidance. Their lives need to be above reproach so their advice and counsel will be taken seriously. This is not to say that church leaders will be perfect; rather, they will "practice what they preach," without hypocrisy. Religions all over world place great importance on the value of personal honesty and moral values.
Merciful
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Spiritual leadership is also evident when church leaders are able to extend mercy to others without judgment. When people make mistakes, they need to be counseled, not condemned. A person who offers spiritual leadership at these times will address the issue and help find a solution, whether it be private repentance or public restitution.
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