Building on Faith by Louise Burnham Packard

Actual Text 1: “What does faith look like in an organization? First, there is a focus on relationship and community. Second, there is an emphasis on today’s needs. Third there is a tendency towards action versus causation, spending versus saving. Fourth, we have flexibility. Fifth, we have a holistic approach. And finally, we have big dreams.” (Page 50)

Response 1: This quote lays out five various ways faith is represented in an organization. I found all of them to be very interesting, especially the last one. First, there is a focus on relationship and community where partnerships create a deeper understanding of the community. Second, needs are at a bias for today vs. tomorrow. Third, there is a shift from caution to action and saving to sending. This is very apparent, even at Fordham. Fourth is our ability to respond to opportunities, even risky ones without fear of failure. Fifth is the holistic approach where the focus of relationship and community inspire leaders. Last, and in my opinion most important, faith allows people to do whatever it takes and a very focused determination to pursue challenges related to big ideas.

Actual Text 2: “The world is teeming with people who are feeling that something is missing in their lives. To the extent that we can offer connection and meaning, we can create public appetite and will for social Change.” (Page 52)

Response 2: This quote really spoke to be because I constantly feel like there is something missing from my life even though once I take a step back I realize I have everything I could ever want or need. This feeling is instilled on us from all the marketing and advertisements plus a variety of other reasons. People constantly feel like they don’t have enough and need more more more. The second part of this quote is almost too optimistic due to the fact that a public appetite currently exists for social change but there is little to no action being taken to combat these issues. It is a step in the right direction to acknowledge the problems but now it is time to start attempting to fix both social and economical.

More blog posts in this category Common

• The Wound & the Blessing/The Economy of Communion Project Post
• The Crest- Jewel of Wisdom & Work as a Spiritual Practice Post
• "What Money Can't Buy" Blog Post
• Blog Post Ni: FTRN Booklet & Arithmetic of Passion
• Work as a Spiritual Practice (The Transformation of Work)