July 21, 2000 Edition

Bishop's Corner

There’s Been An Election!

By Bishop Cornelius L. Henderson

 A sense of excitement fills the auditorium/church/chapel as the presiding bishop states the words, "There’s been an election," during the jurisdictional conference held every four years. In each of the five geographical areas in the United States we (will) elect new episcopal leaders for the United Methodist Church.

The question that is raised most frequently is, "What qualities should persons possess who aspire to this office?" The following is my own personal list for episcopal aspirants, as well as other Christian     leaders, and includes:

	Complete commitment to Christ		Call to ministry
	Dreamer		Visionaire
	Administrative skills		Mission driven
	Love for all people		Encourager
	Sense of humor		Sense of fairness
	Sense of balance		Team member
	Positive outlook		Solid devotional life
	Love for family		Goal setter
	Excited about ministry		Affirmer/supporter of the laity
	Committed to inclusiveness		Better than average intelligence
	Knowledge of, love for, commitment  to the United Methodist connectional system		Committed to Evangelism as the first order of business

This list is surely incomplete, but at least it is a beginning. Ordinarily, leadership will not suffice in this new century. These are extra-ordinary times that demand extraordinary leadership.

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