Decision making and authority go hand in hand for communities. The style of authority accepted by the group dictates the way decisions will happen. So, for example, if there is an acknowledged leader in the collective, that person will often find him or herself looked to for the final word on tough issues. On the other hand, where a community tries to act on the conviction that the gifts of the Spirit are spread throughout, then consensus in decision making will more than likely take place.
That's speaking on an abstract level. Real life always makes things more complicated, doesn't it? The clear lines just laid out often get blurred in daily living.
That is why reflecting on decision making and authority immediately raises questions. While we can offer opinions on them, it's clear that asking the right questions sheds more light on the issue than simple answers can suggest. Community members, therefore, would do well to stay with these questions for a time.
Given the intensely democratic, individualistic mentality of modern Americans, where does authority fit in community life? Is the only authority ultimately that which is exercised by the collective? Or are there persons in whom authority is legitimately invested?
Our feeling is that while communities frequently confer authority on individuals among their number, the recipient of this responsibility must carry it in as collegial a manner as possible. Furthermore, in particular cases, the community ought to encourage leadership from the member or members who possess the appropriate talent. For example, on many issues the leadership of a woman is entirely more appropriate than that of a man.
How does consensus decision making square with the authority that a community acknowledges in one individual? Will the community tend toward abdicating personal responsibility in favor of decisions made by the authority figure? On the other hand, will striving for consensus undermine the legitimate authority given to an individual by the community? These are somewhat complicated questions. We would argue for a common baseline--that consensus must be sought for at all times.
Those in authority must remember that the community has entrusted this responsibility to them and exercise it lightly. An example serves to illuminate all of this.
Some years ago in a Third World country, members of an American missionary community proposed the purchase of a new vehicle for their work. They had done their homework and come up with their best choice in terms of practicality, durability, and price. However, the accepted authority figure in the group felt that the proposal needed further scrutiny, especially in light of the severe economic crisis then facing that country and its people. At the community meeting where the matter came up, the leader stated his reservations and suggested that they take a week to pray and discern further about the matter.
One week later the collective decided not to buy the vehicle--without further insistence by the one in authority. Implicit in the decision was the tested conviction that had the community concluded in favor of making the purchase, the leader would have gone along.
This strikes us as the best exercise of authority and decision making. It reflects what Jesus had in mind for his communities of followers: "You know how among the Gentiles those who seem to exercise authority lord it over them....It cannot be like that with you. Anyone among you who aspires to greatness must serve the rest; whoever wants to rank first among you must serve the needs of all" (Mark 10:42-44).
Joe Nangle, O.F.M. was outreach director of Sojourners when this article appeared.
Got something to say about what you're reading? We value your feedback!