I recently had the privilege of celebrating with the newest members of the Mercy Associates, a group of lay faithful leaders who formally partner with the mission, spirituality, and charism of the Sisters of Mercy. For those who don't know this beautiful order of women religious, here is a description of the Sisters of Mercy: … Continue reading The Work of Mercy Begins Within: A Tribute to the Sisters of Mercy and Mercy Associates
Tag: courage
When Belonging Becomes a Barrier
“You only are free when you realize you belong no place — you belong every place — no place at all. The price is high. The reward is great.” — Maya Angelou This level of belonging takes deep work. The world is constantly telling us where we do and don’t belong. Social media pulls us … Continue reading When Belonging Becomes a Barrier
Unity Begins With Me
“We have to suffer as much from the Church as for it.” — Flannery O’Connor What do you think of when you think of the Church? What expectations do you have? What assumptions do you make? How would you define its purpose? For many, the Church brings to mind hurt, judgment, fear, and anxiety. The … Continue reading Unity Begins With Me
When Comfort Is No Longer the Call
This one is personal, and complex. Please note that everything expressed in this post is my perspective as a person and not a representation of the views of anyone else within the Archdiocese of Dubuque. Now that I am a few months into my role as Director of Leadership Formation, I have had the privilege … Continue reading When Comfort Is No Longer the Call
Leading In An Age of Misinformation and Distrust
As I continue to walk alongside leaders who are leading corporate organizations, nonprofits, cities, churches, families, and everything in between, I find it important to name that what worked before is no longer working. But maybe the answer isn't simply to find a better way to lead. Maybe we also have to ask: What kind … Continue reading Leading In An Age of Misinformation and Distrust
The Work of Moving Forward Together: From Change and Grief to Connection, Alignment, and Mission
“They are not problems to be fixed, but mysteries to be honored and revered.” This quote about people continues to resound in my head from Eugene Peterson’s The Pastor: A Memoir. Throughout my years coaching leaders and supporting organizations through change, I have encountered so many people who wanted me to “come in and fix … Continue reading The Work of Moving Forward Together: From Change and Grief to Connection, Alignment, and Mission
High Standards + Low Expectations
"I just want to be the best I can be.""I want to create an environment where we win and we care.""I want to use my organization to challenge people to become the best version of themselves." When I hear answers like this on a discovery call, I know we’re likely a match. And I don’t … Continue reading High Standards + Low Expectations
A New Way Forward
Here I standfeeling alone.Disappointed.Frustrated. Was it me? Was it you? How did we get here? These questionsconsume. I want to knowwhat to donot to end uphere again. I spin. I sulk. I rackmy brain. Wondering. Considering. Beating myself up. Rethinking. Reconsidering.My part. Still, no clearpath for controlor prevention. Then it hits. This is my patternto … Continue reading A New Way Forward
Moving From Fear to Faith
This blog entry is a keynote I was grateful to be invited to give at a Catholic school foundation gala. 37 years ago I was huddled in a car with my little sister terrified because of what was happening in my home and praying God would keep my mom alive. My parents divorced but the … Continue reading Moving From Fear to Faith
Lessons from Grandpa about Life and Leadership
Sharing this reflection in memory of my generous, strong, God-fearing grandpa who joined our Heavenly Father on September 20, 2025. There are some life and leadership lessons Grandpa imparted that stand out. Always keep your hope for people, especially the ones you love. Don't overcomplicate things. Love and serve well. Never stop striving after Jesus. … Continue reading Lessons from Grandpa about Life and Leadership
