Welcome to my recommended reading list for our program. As we go through the year, I will be adding more books to this list, so feel free to check back often.

Session 2:

Trust and Inspire by Stephen Covey

This book outlines the ways the world has changed when it comes to leadership. Where leaders used to operate primarily through Command and Control, Covey argues that it is time for Trust and Inspire, which was always a more human and effective way to lead people.

Redeeming Power by Ann M. Garrido

This book reclaims biblical power and explores the ways in which power is necessary and the ethics of how we embody it as images of God.

Pope Francis: Why He Leads the Way He Leads by Chris Lowney

This book examines the leadership of Pope Francis, drawing on the pope’s speaking and writing, and providing an analysis of a leader aiming to shift church leadership to respond to a world searching for God in different ways than in the past.

The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo

A manager who came of age at Facebook in the rise of social media and technological change, Julie Zhuo defines management and explores how leaders become effective managers of strong teams. The book is an accessible and practical guide to becoming an authentic manager in your own right.

Session 1:

The Gift of Administration by Donald Senior

A long time Catholic university administrator and priest, Donald Senior examines the ways in which administration and leadership flow from God’s call (rather than get in the way of it).

Redeeming Administration and Redeeming Conflict by Ann M. Garrido

Catholic theologian and mediator, Ann Garrido offers 12 spiritual habits in each of these books to inform Catholic leadership in the three subject areas. The books merge best practices in leadership with Catholic spirituality and theology.

Clericalism: The Death of the Priesthood by George B Wilson, SJ

Wilson argues that clericalism is a sociological reality created by the need for clerics (or specialists) in any field. This is a neutral sociological reality until and unless specialists abuse their power to remove autonomy and power from those they are supposed to help. The book offers both theory and practical suggestions for a healthy use of spiritual expertise.

Learning Leadership by Kouzes and Posner

A foundational text by longtime leadership gurus, this book suggests that leadership can be learned and outlines five areas for leaders to focus on towards excellence. Based in research, the authors make the learning accessible and practical

Leading form the Second Chair by Bonem and Patterson

This book recognizes that senior leaders are surrounded by second chair leaders. In a parish, the priest is the first chair leader, and needs to be intentional about supporting and listening to second chair leaders for effective ministry. In the diocese, the Bishop is the first chair leader and priests are second chair leaders. This book helps us to understand how our ministry and priorities are understood in larger contexts. A great read for understanding how God calls and uses leadership across broader contexts.

The Better Pastor by Patrick Lencioni

Leadership expert and Catholic parishioner Patrick Lencioni writes a fable for pastors doing one of the hardest jobs on the planet – leading communities of faith. Using a format that has transformed many secular workplaces, he turns his gifts to the church in the hopes of transforming our churches with more effective parish leadership.

---

Full disclosure: I hope you will consider getting these books from a library or local bookstore. If you choose to buy them at the Amazon links above, I may receive commission on the recommendation.