Pope John Paul II Research Paper
John Paul II showed me what real leadership looks like. He modeled for me how to pursue our God-given potential. Not coincidentally, this also makes us and those around us better employees, more capable of and more willing to work hard at building a stronger company. That s something that makes both good human sense and good business sense. - Andreas Widmer Former Swiss Guard, CEO and business leader
Andreas Widmer gives a behind-the-scenes look into Pope John Paul II, the most authentically human person I ve ever met, and reveals how those memories shaped and forged his success as a corporate executive. In what papal biographer George Weigel calls a powerful example of leadership at work, Widmer recounts his personal experiences serving …show more content…
Blessed Pope John Paul II in the Swiss Guard, and the secrets of successful leadership that he learned at the feet of the great pope.
John Paul II's witness to the reality of God's grace in the life of man, as divine presence and guidance, so inspired and touched the life of one of his body guards, a Swiss guard, that when the latter became an entrepreneur and a CEO, he set himself to emulate the virtues of leadership of the Pope. In this book, the Swiss-Guard-turned-CEO gives a personal witness to the successful application of the Pope's leadership virtues in the life of a CEO and offers the same to CEOs and his readers. The book is thus an excellent tribute to the memory of the Pope and a commendable guide to successful entrepreneurship.
John Paul II's witness to the reality of God's grace in the life of man so inspired and touched the life of one Swiss guard, that when the latter became an entrepreneur and a CEO, he set himself to emulate the virtues of leadership of the Pope. In this book, the Swiss-Guard-turned-CEO gives a personal witness to the successful application of the Pope's leadership virtues and offers the same to other CEOs and all of his readers. The book is thus an excellent tribute to the memory of the Pope and a commendable guide to successful entrepreneurship. -- Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
Andreas Widmer has given us a true gift by sharing his firsthand experience of Pope JPII's personal habits so that we can incorporate these in our own leadership journey.
By making the Pope accessible and by appropriating the Pope's demeanor into his own personal and work lives, Andreas gave a us a role model who is truly worthy of the word and shows us that it is possible to achieve the sanctity of leadership even in the context of business.
Andreas Widmer gives us a true gift by sharing his firsthand experience of Pope JPII's personal habits so that we can incorporate these in our own leadership journey. By making the Pope accessible and by appropriating the Pope's demeanor into his own personal and work lives, Andreas gives a us a role model who is truly worthy of the word; he shows us that it is possible to achieve the sanctity of leadership even in the context of business. -- Carolyn Y. Woo, Dean, Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame; newly named President and CEO of Catholic Relief Services
Andreas Widmer is an honest man, a good man, and an insightful man. His reflections on what he learned from perhaps the greatest Christian of our time offer all of us a powerful example of leadership at work. -- George Weigel, Pope John Paul II s Biographer, Distinguished Senior Fellow of Washington s Ethics and Public Policy
Center
What we find in Andreas Widmer s book is the fruit, both of his own disciplined and [shrewdly perceptive] scrutiny of his life, and of the influence on that life of the years he spent, not only in close proximity to Blessed John Paul ll, but in what turned out to be a close friendship. It is a story suffused with the luminescence of wisdom and holiness. -- Thomas Howard, Author
--Endorsements
"Andreas Widmer has produced an excellent management tool for those of us who believe the teachings of the Church will enlighten our path and guide us to succeed in every endeavor.
John Paul II's relentless defense of freedom helped shape the XX Century. He was a living example of what can happen when the virtues of faith, hope and love merge with wisdom, a positive attitude and strategic thinking.
From the C-Suite of large corporations to the day-to- day small entrepreneur, the lessons of The Pope & The CEO are right on target." -- Juan J. Daboub, Ph.D. , Former Managing Director of the World Bank and Former Minister of Finance of El Salvador, entrepenuer and businessman. He is the Founding CEO of the Global Adaptation Institute.
--Endorsements
In The Pope and the CEO, Andreas Widmer gives a striking testimony to the heroic holiness of life of Blessed Pope John Paul II, which he, as a young Swiss Guard, was blessed to witness at close hand. He offers a most powerful testimony, showing how the holiness of Pope John Paul II inspired and continues to inspire him, also through some most difficult times in his life, to strive for what the saintly Pontiff aptly called the high standard of ordinary Christian living. It is my hope that Widmer s book will draw many, especially those engaged in business, closer to Blessed Pope John Paul II and, through him, to Christ to Whom, through the Blessed Virgin Mary, he gave his whole being, right up to the last moment of his life. -- Cardinal Raymond Burke, Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura br> "In The Pope and the CEO, Andreas Widmer captures John Paul's deep commitment to the human person and provides an engaging and insightful look at how this understanding of the human person is necessary for personal and professional flourishing. The book captures the essence of the tradition and teachings on the human person and the good life, and provides compelling and clear guidelines for applying these ideas to current business and professional challenges." -- Anna Halpine, Founder of the World Youth Alliance
Andreas insights from daily life with a great man like John Paul II drives home the point that business decisions can be made from purely human motives OR with God's inspiration for us and for our work. The anecdotes and insights make The Pope & The CEO a worthwhile read" -- Claire Huang, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Bank of America Merrill Lynch
In a world which often sees the Gospel of Truth and the world of business as polar opposites, Andreas Widmer sees, understands, and develops the connections. As Benedict XVI has repeatedly reminded us, we are all called to be saints. In The Pope & the CEO, Widmer shows how the words and actions of Blessed John Paul II provide living guidance for all those charged with high responsibilities in the marketplace: guidance for prudent and morally-wise business decisions, and guidance about how to pursue holiness in our everyday lives. -- Samuel Gregg, Director of Research, Acton Institute
When I first met Andreas, he told me, I was converted to Christianity under the personal witness of Pope John Paul II. This claim was so unique and stunning, that I was immediately drawn to his testimony. Imagine learning under the tutelage of the CEO of Christianity, and allow yourself to learn how to be a CEO from the personal and deeply insightful comments by Andreas Widmer, a Former Swiss Guard of Pope John Paul II. -- Richard E. Omohundro
My friend, Andreas Widmer, found his faith while protecting Pope John Paul II as a member of the Vatican s legendary Swiss Guards. The experience changed his life and continues to guide his quest to integrate his faith into being a husband, father, CEO and marketplace leader. In The Pope & The CEO, Andreas shares with us his personal memories and the lessons learned from of one of the greatest leaders of the twentieth century. John Paul s powerful example of faith, humility and love will challenge you to discover your calling and put your faith into action. -- Dale Dawson , Founder & CEO. Bridge2Rwanda
Pope John Paul II will probably be best remembered for his role in overturning communism in Poland and the tearing down of the Berlin Wall. Less well known are his many other achievements as a leader. As a former Swiss Guard at the Vatican, Andreas Widmer has given us a rare insight into the life of the Pope and his style of leadership. Observing the inspirational leadership of the Pope close up inspired Andreas --Endorsements
As the title suggests, The Pope and the CEO is an attempt really well done to articulate an account of the many connections between Christian faith and entrepreneurial-managerial activity. The key to Widmer s argument is the suggestion that the market, the business, the economy can themselves be the place for reciprocity, fraternity, civilization. Under one condition: that the enterprise is not seen only as a machine to make money. As John Paul II taught to the Author, money and profit are weak incentives if we want to move people at the level of their most noble and powerful energies. The narrative of the book is rather original. Between personal recollections of the two years spent as a Swiss guard and the accurate report of the multifarious activities undertaken since he left the Vatican, Widmer provides us with a useful guidebook for people who really desire to achieve successful leadership.
The Pope and the CEO is a beautifully written book that ought to be read by all those who realize that our time is characterized by a deep crisis, that is not simply economic and financial, but also cultural and ethical. Its reading will certainly contribute to the generation of new ideas and pave the way for new venues of research in managerial studies. -- Stefano Zamagni, Prof. of Economics, University of Bologna; Adjunct Prof. of Political Economy, Johns Hopkins University, Bologna Center; President of the Italian Agency for the Third Sector
Fascinating, intimate, inside stories of one Swiss Guard s personal interactions with Blessed John Paul II captivates readers with a rare glimpse into the little known culture of the Pope and his guards. Those real-life encounters with the Pope formed Andreas Widmer s life and views on faith, family, and work from a young Swiss Guard to a corporate executive and CEO. Real leadership requires reconciling our spiritual lives with our work, and the Pope & The CEO are two Christian men that show us how to put that into practice every day. -- Immaculée Ilibagiza, Author
Reading this book and reflecting on the tremendous turmoil in our world today, I am reminded of the enduring importance of effective leadership. From my perspective, it is imperative that we rethink and rebuild our approaches to solving the big issues of the day and capturing the many emerging growth opportunities across the globe. These new organizations will require a new type of leader, or as is articulated in the book a return to the certain successful leadership traits of a great mentor. For current CEOs, this book will cause you to stop and contemplate your own unfolding legacy. For future CEOs, you are provided with some important discoveries for how to shape a better world and a more enjoyable life! -- Bob Keith, President & CEO, Catalyst Growth Partners
"Must read for anyone in the business world. I know I talk about wanting to be a man of integrity and putting the interests of others above my own, but the Pope's actions and words reflected that he was a living definition of the word. Thank God, Andreas was present to capture the living witness and testimony of this Pope and share his wisdom to benefit all readers. This book has captivated and challenged me to become a man that pursues the heart and mind of Christ. Thank you for challenging us to become the men that God desires us all to become." -- David Howlett, Serial Entrepreneur
Unlike the entrepreneurs and business moguls of the secular world, John Paul doesn't have to concern himself with balance sheets and stock performance, nor need he lose any sleep worrying about efficient production of widgets. He is not a businessman, by any stretch of the imagination. Yet, as leader of 840 million Catholics and guardian of one of the world's largest and least understood organizations, John Paul's management strategy in many ways parallels that of men who have run massive corporations.
Like Chrysler's Lee A. Iacocca, IBM's Thomas J. Watson Jr. and EDS's H. Ross Perot, John Paul has a clear view of his organization's goals and has devoted himself tirelessly to teaching others about them. Like his corporate counterparts, he has surrounded himself with energetic subordinates who share their leader's vision and has inspired them to action. And while the Pope's warm, relaxed graciousness might at first seem out of place in a corporate board room, it seems to let his employees know that he expects nothing less than their very best efforts in everything they do.
That doesn't mean that the Pope's modern management techniques have assured smooth sailing for the church--far from it. Roman Catholicism is in the midst of the most massive upheaval it has experienced in this century, as growing numbers of Catholic activists, particularly in the United States, challenge the Pope's conservative teachings on such emotional issues as divorce, birth control, premarital sex, homosexuality and the ban on women priests. At the same time, the church has been elevated to a new level of world controversy. Just recently, John Paul's audience with Austrian President Kurt Waldheim, who has been implicated in the World War II deportation of Jews to concentration camps, triggered a tremendous uproar, which was partially calmed by a subsequent meeting with Jewish leaders and a papal letter expressing sorrow over the Holocaust. And the Pope's repeated calls for human rights, often delivered publicly in the shadow of dictatorships, have fanned the flames of controversy still higher.
One cannot measure the efficiency of a Pope as one does a chief executive officer, because the "product" of any church is in some real sense immeasurable. Still, a close look at John Paul, on the eve of his first visit to the West Coast, reveals not only a spiritual leader but also an accomplished, remarkably popular executive.
IN COMMAND OF THE CURIA
THERE WERE SIGNALS from the beginning that Pope John Paul would vigorously manage his church. Early in his papacy, John Paul ordered a swimming pool to be built at Castel Gandolfo, a kind of papal Camp David outside of Rome, so that he could swim laps for exercise. When some churchmen criticized the expense involved, the Pope replied that building the pool would cost considerably less than convening another conclave, the meeting of cardinals that is called when a Pope dies.
Other Popes might well have given in to critics among their own troops, even in such trivial matters. For as the usually affable Pope John XXIII, faced with an intransigent Vatican bureaucracy, only half-jokingly told friends, "I am only the Pope here." The quip captured a view of the bureaucracy, known as the Curia, that has been shared by many supreme pontiffs: that it is an autonomous, self-protecting apparatus whose staff of mostly Italian clergy resists papal control. But in the view of most of the members of today's Curia, John Paul has succeeded in banishing that administrative inertia and instead brought a heightened sense of purpose.
If your background includes a fairly isolated evangelical context, then this book will help broaden your perspective to include the inner life of the Vatican and the Swiss Guard. Prior to reading this book, my knowledge of both was limited to a few articles, news media and a short, personal journey through the halls of the Vatican with many other tourists. The author of The Pope and the CEO provides the reader with an insider view of his years serving with the Swiss Guard from 1986-1989. This book is helpful on at least two levels.
First, it familiarizes the reader with a quite personal perspective of the life of Pope John Paul II and his relationship with members of the Swiss Guard. Unguarded moments of personal interaction and fascinating stories about John Paul If’s life and travels fill the pages of this book. It is obvious that the author is in awe of the one he was sworn to protect. The book is filled with Roman Catholic praxis and theological perspective. That fact may cause some discomfort for the more conservative evangelical readers.
Second, the book draws insightful leadership principles from the observations made by this member of the Swiss Guard. He lived and worked closely with John Paul II as he led millions of Roman Catholics around the world. Following his honorable discharge from his service with the Swiss Guard, Wider went on to become the CEO where he practiced the leadership principles he learned from John Paul. This book is a distillation of those principles and reflections on the one who lived those principles before a young member of the Swiss Guard.
In the first chapter, Widmer identifies three levels of vocation. Our Universal vocation is that vocation we all share – to know, love and serve God in this life so that we can know, love, and serve Him eternally in the next life. The second vocation is our Primary vocation. This is subdivided into married life, the priesthood, and the consecrated life (living in society at large). It is through this primary vocation that our love to God is lived and practiced. The last vocation is our Secondary vocation. This is the manifestation of our gifts and talents used in living out our Universal and Primary vocations. For most of us, this means our work or profession. Widmer bemoans that too often our Secondary vocation overshadows the primacy of the first two. Through work we don’t simply make more, we become more. Work shapes us and refines us to better love, and serve our families, clients, neighbors, and communities.
Chapters three and four are worth the price of the book. In these two chapters, Widmer discusses the value of a moral compass, knowing what is right, and knowing how to lead with integrity. He watched John Paul II lead with the confidence of biblical authority and courageous integrity, and found that too many CEOs and managers often express morality, but somehow do not believe rules apply to them. The obligation of standing guard for hours at a time was a discipline Widmer reflects on in his desire to live a life of integrity even when no one is watching. He observed and practiced the character of self-denial in his role as a guard and later as a CEO. What a rare and desperately needed quality in business leaders.
In chapter five Widmer discusses the paradox of planning for the future and living in the present. This leadership insight is drawn from the tension he observed in John Paul II seeking to create a vision for the future of the Roman Catholic Church without doing violence to its deep and rich history. In chapter six, there is a focus on the value of cultivating and synchronizing talent. John Paul II did not simply surround himself with those who agreed with him. Making sure he placed individuals in leadership positions that reflected their talents and challenged him was of great importance. When it comes to leadership there are critics and there are coaches. The critic’s primary objective is not the person but the project. In the critic’s eyes the person is a means to an end. The coach is also concerned about the goal, but always knows that the person always matters more.
The final three chapters focus on how leaders should live their lives. Following the example of John Paul II, the life of the leader reflects a witness to righteousness, balance, humility, and poverty. The term Widmer uses for the last chapter is a life of detachment. Included in that final chapter is a modern paraphrase of the Benedictine Rule of Leadership. Although you will find some Roman Catholic nomenclature, I believe it is worthy of citation here.
Revere the simple rules. Don’t speed. Stop at red lights. Meet deadlines.
Reject your personal desires. Fast when a little hungry. Avoid impulse buying. Skip dessert.
Obey those in positions of authority. Pay your taxes. Follow your confessor’s advice. Rewrite the report for your manager. Take the trash out for your wife.
Endure affliction. When someone insults you, turn the other cheek. When you’re sick, don’t whine. When you’re snubbed, smile.
Confess your weakness. When you’re wrong, admit it. When a task at work proves difficult, talk with your manager about what you might be doing wrong. Do an examination of conscience every night. Go to confession.
Practice contentment. Drive the old car. Keep the old house. Don’t upgrade to the next version of a gadget when the one you have is all you really need.
Learn self-reproach: When something goes wrong – at home, at work, with friends – make the first question you ask yourself, “What could I have done differently to prevent this.” Be honest with yourself.
Obey the common rule. Abide by organization policy faithfully and according to the spirit of the law, not just the letter of the law.
Understand that silence is golden. Listen more than you speak. Make your orders few and reasonable.
Mediate on humility. Read the Gospels. Study the lives of the saints. Think about the great men and women you’ve known. How were they humble? What example did they set? How can you imitate them?
Speak simply. Talk in a low, quiet voice. Speak gently. Have a kind word for everyone.
Be humble in appearance. Dress simply. Eat simply. Cultivate simple hobbies and simple tastes
Andreas Widmer gives a behind-the-scenes look into Pope John Paul II, the most authentically human person I ve ever met, and reveals how those memories shaped and forged his success as a corporate executive. In what papal biographer George Weigel calls a powerful example of leadership at work, Widmer recounts his personal experiences serving …show more content…
Blessed Pope John Paul II in the Swiss Guard, and the secrets of successful leadership that he learned at the feet of the great pope.
John Paul II's witness to the reality of God's grace in the life of man, as divine presence and guidance, so inspired and touched the life of one of his body guards, a Swiss guard, that when the latter became an entrepreneur and a CEO, he set himself to emulate the virtues of leadership of the Pope. In this book, the Swiss-Guard-turned-CEO gives a personal witness to the successful application of the Pope's leadership virtues in the life of a CEO and offers the same to CEOs and his readers. The book is thus an excellent tribute to the memory of the Pope and a commendable guide to successful entrepreneurship.
John Paul II's witness to the reality of God's grace in the life of man so inspired and touched the life of one Swiss guard, that when the latter became an entrepreneur and a CEO, he set himself to emulate the virtues of leadership of the Pope. In this book, the Swiss-Guard-turned-CEO gives a personal witness to the successful application of the Pope's leadership virtues and offers the same to other CEOs and all of his readers. The book is thus an excellent tribute to the memory of the Pope and a commendable guide to successful entrepreneurship. -- Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
Andreas Widmer has given us a true gift by sharing his firsthand experience of Pope JPII's personal habits so that we can incorporate these in our own leadership journey.
By making the Pope accessible and by appropriating the Pope's demeanor into his own personal and work lives, Andreas gave a us a role model who is truly worthy of the word and shows us that it is possible to achieve the sanctity of leadership even in the context of business.
Andreas Widmer gives us a true gift by sharing his firsthand experience of Pope JPII's personal habits so that we can incorporate these in our own leadership journey. By making the Pope accessible and by appropriating the Pope's demeanor into his own personal and work lives, Andreas gives a us a role model who is truly worthy of the word; he shows us that it is possible to achieve the sanctity of leadership even in the context of business. -- Carolyn Y. Woo, Dean, Mendoza College of Business, University of Notre Dame; newly named President and CEO of Catholic Relief Services
Andreas Widmer is an honest man, a good man, and an insightful man. His reflections on what he learned from perhaps the greatest Christian of our time offer all of us a powerful example of leadership at work. -- George Weigel, Pope John Paul II s Biographer, Distinguished Senior Fellow of Washington s Ethics and Public Policy
Center
What we find in Andreas Widmer s book is the fruit, both of his own disciplined and [shrewdly perceptive] scrutiny of his life, and of the influence on that life of the years he spent, not only in close proximity to Blessed John Paul ll, but in what turned out to be a close friendship. It is a story suffused with the luminescence of wisdom and holiness. -- Thomas Howard, Author
--Endorsements
"Andreas Widmer has produced an excellent management tool for those of us who believe the teachings of the Church will enlighten our path and guide us to succeed in every endeavor.
John Paul II's relentless defense of freedom helped shape the XX Century. He was a living example of what can happen when the virtues of faith, hope and love merge with wisdom, a positive attitude and strategic thinking.
From the C-Suite of large corporations to the day-to- day small entrepreneur, the lessons of The Pope & The CEO are right on target." -- Juan J. Daboub, Ph.D. , Former Managing Director of the World Bank and Former Minister of Finance of El Salvador, entrepenuer and businessman. He is the Founding CEO of the Global Adaptation Institute.
--Endorsements
In The Pope and the CEO, Andreas Widmer gives a striking testimony to the heroic holiness of life of Blessed Pope John Paul II, which he, as a young Swiss Guard, was blessed to witness at close hand. He offers a most powerful testimony, showing how the holiness of Pope John Paul II inspired and continues to inspire him, also through some most difficult times in his life, to strive for what the saintly Pontiff aptly called the high standard of ordinary Christian living. It is my hope that Widmer s book will draw many, especially those engaged in business, closer to Blessed Pope John Paul II and, through him, to Christ to Whom, through the Blessed Virgin Mary, he gave his whole being, right up to the last moment of his life. -- Cardinal Raymond Burke, Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura br> "In The Pope and the CEO, Andreas Widmer captures John Paul's deep commitment to the human person and provides an engaging and insightful look at how this understanding of the human person is necessary for personal and professional flourishing. The book captures the essence of the tradition and teachings on the human person and the good life, and provides compelling and clear guidelines for applying these ideas to current business and professional challenges." -- Anna Halpine, Founder of the World Youth Alliance
Andreas insights from daily life with a great man like John Paul II drives home the point that business decisions can be made from purely human motives OR with God's inspiration for us and for our work. The anecdotes and insights make The Pope & The CEO a worthwhile read" -- Claire Huang, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Bank of America Merrill Lynch
In a world which often sees the Gospel of Truth and the world of business as polar opposites, Andreas Widmer sees, understands, and develops the connections. As Benedict XVI has repeatedly reminded us, we are all called to be saints. In The Pope & the CEO, Widmer shows how the words and actions of Blessed John Paul II provide living guidance for all those charged with high responsibilities in the marketplace: guidance for prudent and morally-wise business decisions, and guidance about how to pursue holiness in our everyday lives. -- Samuel Gregg, Director of Research, Acton Institute
When I first met Andreas, he told me, I was converted to Christianity under the personal witness of Pope John Paul II. This claim was so unique and stunning, that I was immediately drawn to his testimony. Imagine learning under the tutelage of the CEO of Christianity, and allow yourself to learn how to be a CEO from the personal and deeply insightful comments by Andreas Widmer, a Former Swiss Guard of Pope John Paul II. -- Richard E. Omohundro
My friend, Andreas Widmer, found his faith while protecting Pope John Paul II as a member of the Vatican s legendary Swiss Guards. The experience changed his life and continues to guide his quest to integrate his faith into being a husband, father, CEO and marketplace leader. In The Pope & The CEO, Andreas shares with us his personal memories and the lessons learned from of one of the greatest leaders of the twentieth century. John Paul s powerful example of faith, humility and love will challenge you to discover your calling and put your faith into action. -- Dale Dawson , Founder & CEO. Bridge2Rwanda
Pope John Paul II will probably be best remembered for his role in overturning communism in Poland and the tearing down of the Berlin Wall. Less well known are his many other achievements as a leader. As a former Swiss Guard at the Vatican, Andreas Widmer has given us a rare insight into the life of the Pope and his style of leadership. Observing the inspirational leadership of the Pope close up inspired Andreas --Endorsements
As the title suggests, The Pope and the CEO is an attempt really well done to articulate an account of the many connections between Christian faith and entrepreneurial-managerial activity. The key to Widmer s argument is the suggestion that the market, the business, the economy can themselves be the place for reciprocity, fraternity, civilization. Under one condition: that the enterprise is not seen only as a machine to make money. As John Paul II taught to the Author, money and profit are weak incentives if we want to move people at the level of their most noble and powerful energies. The narrative of the book is rather original. Between personal recollections of the two years spent as a Swiss guard and the accurate report of the multifarious activities undertaken since he left the Vatican, Widmer provides us with a useful guidebook for people who really desire to achieve successful leadership.
The Pope and the CEO is a beautifully written book that ought to be read by all those who realize that our time is characterized by a deep crisis, that is not simply economic and financial, but also cultural and ethical. Its reading will certainly contribute to the generation of new ideas and pave the way for new venues of research in managerial studies. -- Stefano Zamagni, Prof. of Economics, University of Bologna; Adjunct Prof. of Political Economy, Johns Hopkins University, Bologna Center; President of the Italian Agency for the Third Sector
Fascinating, intimate, inside stories of one Swiss Guard s personal interactions with Blessed John Paul II captivates readers with a rare glimpse into the little known culture of the Pope and his guards. Those real-life encounters with the Pope formed Andreas Widmer s life and views on faith, family, and work from a young Swiss Guard to a corporate executive and CEO. Real leadership requires reconciling our spiritual lives with our work, and the Pope & The CEO are two Christian men that show us how to put that into practice every day. -- Immaculée Ilibagiza, Author
Reading this book and reflecting on the tremendous turmoil in our world today, I am reminded of the enduring importance of effective leadership. From my perspective, it is imperative that we rethink and rebuild our approaches to solving the big issues of the day and capturing the many emerging growth opportunities across the globe. These new organizations will require a new type of leader, or as is articulated in the book a return to the certain successful leadership traits of a great mentor. For current CEOs, this book will cause you to stop and contemplate your own unfolding legacy. For future CEOs, you are provided with some important discoveries for how to shape a better world and a more enjoyable life! -- Bob Keith, President & CEO, Catalyst Growth Partners
"Must read for anyone in the business world. I know I talk about wanting to be a man of integrity and putting the interests of others above my own, but the Pope's actions and words reflected that he was a living definition of the word. Thank God, Andreas was present to capture the living witness and testimony of this Pope and share his wisdom to benefit all readers. This book has captivated and challenged me to become a man that pursues the heart and mind of Christ. Thank you for challenging us to become the men that God desires us all to become." -- David Howlett, Serial Entrepreneur
Unlike the entrepreneurs and business moguls of the secular world, John Paul doesn't have to concern himself with balance sheets and stock performance, nor need he lose any sleep worrying about efficient production of widgets. He is not a businessman, by any stretch of the imagination. Yet, as leader of 840 million Catholics and guardian of one of the world's largest and least understood organizations, John Paul's management strategy in many ways parallels that of men who have run massive corporations.
Like Chrysler's Lee A. Iacocca, IBM's Thomas J. Watson Jr. and EDS's H. Ross Perot, John Paul has a clear view of his organization's goals and has devoted himself tirelessly to teaching others about them. Like his corporate counterparts, he has surrounded himself with energetic subordinates who share their leader's vision and has inspired them to action. And while the Pope's warm, relaxed graciousness might at first seem out of place in a corporate board room, it seems to let his employees know that he expects nothing less than their very best efforts in everything they do.
That doesn't mean that the Pope's modern management techniques have assured smooth sailing for the church--far from it. Roman Catholicism is in the midst of the most massive upheaval it has experienced in this century, as growing numbers of Catholic activists, particularly in the United States, challenge the Pope's conservative teachings on such emotional issues as divorce, birth control, premarital sex, homosexuality and the ban on women priests. At the same time, the church has been elevated to a new level of world controversy. Just recently, John Paul's audience with Austrian President Kurt Waldheim, who has been implicated in the World War II deportation of Jews to concentration camps, triggered a tremendous uproar, which was partially calmed by a subsequent meeting with Jewish leaders and a papal letter expressing sorrow over the Holocaust. And the Pope's repeated calls for human rights, often delivered publicly in the shadow of dictatorships, have fanned the flames of controversy still higher.
One cannot measure the efficiency of a Pope as one does a chief executive officer, because the "product" of any church is in some real sense immeasurable. Still, a close look at John Paul, on the eve of his first visit to the West Coast, reveals not only a spiritual leader but also an accomplished, remarkably popular executive.
IN COMMAND OF THE CURIA
THERE WERE SIGNALS from the beginning that Pope John Paul would vigorously manage his church. Early in his papacy, John Paul ordered a swimming pool to be built at Castel Gandolfo, a kind of papal Camp David outside of Rome, so that he could swim laps for exercise. When some churchmen criticized the expense involved, the Pope replied that building the pool would cost considerably less than convening another conclave, the meeting of cardinals that is called when a Pope dies.
Other Popes might well have given in to critics among their own troops, even in such trivial matters. For as the usually affable Pope John XXIII, faced with an intransigent Vatican bureaucracy, only half-jokingly told friends, "I am only the Pope here." The quip captured a view of the bureaucracy, known as the Curia, that has been shared by many supreme pontiffs: that it is an autonomous, self-protecting apparatus whose staff of mostly Italian clergy resists papal control. But in the view of most of the members of today's Curia, John Paul has succeeded in banishing that administrative inertia and instead brought a heightened sense of purpose.
If your background includes a fairly isolated evangelical context, then this book will help broaden your perspective to include the inner life of the Vatican and the Swiss Guard. Prior to reading this book, my knowledge of both was limited to a few articles, news media and a short, personal journey through the halls of the Vatican with many other tourists. The author of The Pope and the CEO provides the reader with an insider view of his years serving with the Swiss Guard from 1986-1989. This book is helpful on at least two levels.
First, it familiarizes the reader with a quite personal perspective of the life of Pope John Paul II and his relationship with members of the Swiss Guard. Unguarded moments of personal interaction and fascinating stories about John Paul If’s life and travels fill the pages of this book. It is obvious that the author is in awe of the one he was sworn to protect. The book is filled with Roman Catholic praxis and theological perspective. That fact may cause some discomfort for the more conservative evangelical readers.
Second, the book draws insightful leadership principles from the observations made by this member of the Swiss Guard. He lived and worked closely with John Paul II as he led millions of Roman Catholics around the world. Following his honorable discharge from his service with the Swiss Guard, Wider went on to become the CEO where he practiced the leadership principles he learned from John Paul. This book is a distillation of those principles and reflections on the one who lived those principles before a young member of the Swiss Guard.
In the first chapter, Widmer identifies three levels of vocation. Our Universal vocation is that vocation we all share – to know, love and serve God in this life so that we can know, love, and serve Him eternally in the next life. The second vocation is our Primary vocation. This is subdivided into married life, the priesthood, and the consecrated life (living in society at large). It is through this primary vocation that our love to God is lived and practiced. The last vocation is our Secondary vocation. This is the manifestation of our gifts and talents used in living out our Universal and Primary vocations. For most of us, this means our work or profession. Widmer bemoans that too often our Secondary vocation overshadows the primacy of the first two. Through work we don’t simply make more, we become more. Work shapes us and refines us to better love, and serve our families, clients, neighbors, and communities.
Chapters three and four are worth the price of the book. In these two chapters, Widmer discusses the value of a moral compass, knowing what is right, and knowing how to lead with integrity. He watched John Paul II lead with the confidence of biblical authority and courageous integrity, and found that too many CEOs and managers often express morality, but somehow do not believe rules apply to them. The obligation of standing guard for hours at a time was a discipline Widmer reflects on in his desire to live a life of integrity even when no one is watching. He observed and practiced the character of self-denial in his role as a guard and later as a CEO. What a rare and desperately needed quality in business leaders.
In chapter five Widmer discusses the paradox of planning for the future and living in the present. This leadership insight is drawn from the tension he observed in John Paul II seeking to create a vision for the future of the Roman Catholic Church without doing violence to its deep and rich history. In chapter six, there is a focus on the value of cultivating and synchronizing talent. John Paul II did not simply surround himself with those who agreed with him. Making sure he placed individuals in leadership positions that reflected their talents and challenged him was of great importance. When it comes to leadership there are critics and there are coaches. The critic’s primary objective is not the person but the project. In the critic’s eyes the person is a means to an end. The coach is also concerned about the goal, but always knows that the person always matters more.
The final three chapters focus on how leaders should live their lives. Following the example of John Paul II, the life of the leader reflects a witness to righteousness, balance, humility, and poverty. The term Widmer uses for the last chapter is a life of detachment. Included in that final chapter is a modern paraphrase of the Benedictine Rule of Leadership. Although you will find some Roman Catholic nomenclature, I believe it is worthy of citation here.
Revere the simple rules. Don’t speed. Stop at red lights. Meet deadlines.
Reject your personal desires. Fast when a little hungry. Avoid impulse buying. Skip dessert.
Obey those in positions of authority. Pay your taxes. Follow your confessor’s advice. Rewrite the report for your manager. Take the trash out for your wife.
Endure affliction. When someone insults you, turn the other cheek. When you’re sick, don’t whine. When you’re snubbed, smile.
Confess your weakness. When you’re wrong, admit it. When a task at work proves difficult, talk with your manager about what you might be doing wrong. Do an examination of conscience every night. Go to confession.
Practice contentment. Drive the old car. Keep the old house. Don’t upgrade to the next version of a gadget when the one you have is all you really need.
Learn self-reproach: When something goes wrong – at home, at work, with friends – make the first question you ask yourself, “What could I have done differently to prevent this.” Be honest with yourself.
Obey the common rule. Abide by organization policy faithfully and according to the spirit of the law, not just the letter of the law.
Understand that silence is golden. Listen more than you speak. Make your orders few and reasonable.
Mediate on humility. Read the Gospels. Study the lives of the saints. Think about the great men and women you’ve known. How were they humble? What example did they set? How can you imitate them?
Speak simply. Talk in a low, quiet voice. Speak gently. Have a kind word for everyone.
Be humble in appearance. Dress simply. Eat simply. Cultivate simple hobbies and simple tastes