Governing in Faith: Foundations for Formation

Recent years have seen significant changes in the various institutions sponsored and operated by the Catholic Church. Probably one of the most important of these is the fact that the governance of these institutions - works of education, health care, aged care, and social services - is now in the hands of lay persons, rather than being directed by clergy or religious. This change has led to remarkable progress is many ways. Nevertheless, there remains the question of the preparation being given to those who now find themselves in a governance position for a work operating on behalf of the Church. This book examines the types of preparation that would be necessary for those who assume such tasks. There is no question of their competence in the field of administration and personnel management. But, when it comes to issues of Catholic identity and related questions, people might be expecting from them decisions for which they were never duly prepared. This joint work, arising out of significant doctoral studies, lays the foundation for formation of those who are assuming leadership positions in Church-related institutions. Given my own work in this area, I can hardly wait to be able to put this book in the hands of those who are eagerly awaiting guidance in arranging for future leaders to acquire the appropriate doctrinal and ecclesial formation to accompany them in their difficult mission. Francis G. MORRISEY, OMI, Faculty of Canon Law, Saint Paul University, Ottawa, Canada