A religious superior needs to remember that we come together, not mainly to do some work, but to build loving and happy communities, where people feel cared for, and witness to God’s love. Spreading God’s love (through a joyful life of love) IS OUR MAIN WORK.
Work completed; people unhappy
Father Martin considers himself an efficient and capable superior. He makes sure that the work is distributed well, explained properly and followed up. He will check whether each community member has done his assigned duties correctly and on time. If not, he will ask them why. He will remind the young Brother who is a beginner, “Be on time. Never be late. You must correct the homework carefully and on time. Make sure to prepare your classes well.”
Fr Martin is also known to pull up people who are behind schedule, and anyone who does not do what the superior had asked him to do: “I asked you to do this three days ago. You have not yet started working on it. I want it completed, and on my table by 9 am tomorrow.”
People do put in work when Martin is around. Hardly anyone is late for community practices. The “machine” is running smoothly. Jobs get completed on time. The rector looks pleased, and considers himself a successful rector.
Is he?
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Fr Joe Mannath SDB
