The Leadership Development Team of the West Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church is excited to introduce the new Framework for Leadership, a spiritually grounded and mission-driven model designed to guide leaders in their journey of personal growth, relational leadership, and community impact.
Rooted in Wesleyan values and responsive to the evolving needs of our congregations and ministries, this framework offers a holistic approach to leadership—one that nurtures the heart, equips the mind, and strengthens the hands of those called to serve.
Three Pillars of Leadership
The Framework for Leadership is built on three interconnected pillars:
Leading Self
Cultivating spiritual depth, emotional intelligence, and personal integrity. This pillar encourages leaders to:
- Deepen their relationship with God
- Embrace lifelong learning and self-reflection
- Live out their calling with authenticity and resilience
Leading Others
Fostering healthy relationships, collaborative teams, and inclusive ministry. Leaders are called to:
- Empower and equip others for service
- Communicate with compassion and clarity
- Build trust and nurture belonging within their communities
Leading Community
Engaging the broader world with justice, mercy, and hope. This pillar inspires leaders to:
- Advocate for equity and inclusion
- Partner with others for the common good
- Lead change that reflects the love of Christ
Why This Framework Matters
In a time of transformation and renewal within the Church, this framework, modeled after a resource from the Baltimore-Washington Conference of the UMC, provides a shared language and vision for leadership. It supports clergy, laity, and ministry teams in discerning their gifts, growing in their roles, and to lead with purpose.
How It Will Be Used
The Framework for Leadership will serve as a foundation for:
- Leadership development programs and retreats
- Clergy and lay leader training
- Coaching, mentoring, and spiritual direction
- Ministry planning and evaluation
Next Steps
In the coming months, the Leadership Development team will offer workshops, digital resources, and guided reflections to help leaders engage with the framework. We invite all who lead—formally or informally—to explore this model and consider how it can shape their leadership journey.
Together, let us lead with grace, courage, and conviction—serving God, one another, and the world.
If you have any questions, please contact Suzanne Bandy at suzanne@rubberbandcreations.com
This framework was borrowed and adapted with permission from the Baltimore Washington Conference