Ignatian Leadership – A Way of Proceeding

by Zandra Schiemann

Lea en español aquí.

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On Saturday, June 6, OIS held a Zoom workshop, “Ignatian Leadership: A Way of Proceeding,” facilitated by Selia Paludo, director of the Ignatian Spirituality Center (CEI) in Chile. This gathering marked the closing of this year’s activities for our Comunidades Hispanas Ignacianas.

During the workshop, Selia guided us through a deep yet accessible overview of the core elements of Ignatian leadership. Nearly 45 participants joined us from our Hispanic communities (CHI), many of whom are completing their Spiritual Exercises or other formation programs. The session combined moments of personal reflection with small‑group work, creating a rich space for sharing experiences and learning from one another.

Main topics covered in the workshop

1. Leading from within

   • We highlighted the importance of self‑knowledge, inner freedom, and the ability to manage our fears and desires in order to accompany others more effectively.

2. An Ignatian way of seeing reality

   • Being Ignatian means living with open eyes and an awakened heart, recognizing that we are collaborators in a greater mission and that God is present in everyday life.

3. Power or Authority

   • We reflected on the difference between exercising power based on one’s position and exercising authority that comes from coherence, service, and accompaniment.

4. Discernment as a GPS

   • Selia presented discernment as a tool that integrates both reason and heart to make wise decisions, always seeking the Magis—what leads to the greater good.

5. Ignatian communication

   • We explored three key attitudes that strengthen relationships and reduce conflict:

     • Active listening

     • Presupposition (assuming the other’s good intention)

     • Full trust

6. The three “Curas” of leadership

   · Cura Personalis: caring for the person

   · Cura Corpus: caring for the team

   · Cura Apostólica: caring for the mission

7. The profile of an Ignatian leader

   • A leadership style that integrates five qualities: being conscious, competent, compassionate, contemplative in action, and committed.

In summary, the workshop reminded us that Ignatian leadership is not about making oneself shine, but about creating spaces where others can grow, serve, and share their gifts. It was a meaningful end‑of‑year gathering, full of purpose and community.