Mentors

There really is a chemistry to this group that Preston (co-facilitator) and I could not manufacture. I expected some congeniality, since many of chaplains knew each other, and Preston and I, through the National Association of Episcopal Schools. Due to the nature of academic communities, school chaplains are accustomed to embracing community in unique ways and to reaching out to incorporate people who are new into the community. Still, their openness to each other—and the Thriving process—surprised me.

They’re incredibly supportive of each other. For instance, Mary Ellen presented her case study at the most recent meeting, and it was spirit-spilled. Mary Ellen did a good job of asking focusing questions so that people would come prepared. In the weeks leading up to the meeting, she discussed the case with Preston and I and sent us multiple drafts to review. And her work paid off: the case study was well-designed and well-orchestrated with very specific instructions and questions. Her thoughtfulness opened the space for people to emerge in lovely and surprising ways.