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Comments from Participants

"Thank you for opening the door to a new way of being in the world.”

"The work in family systems theory has given me hope of staying on as a pastor"

"In thirty years of ministry, this is the most valuable continuing education I have ever taken."

"My congregation is a different congregation since taking your seminar. Chaos and bickering has disappeared and people are positively engaged in different ministries."

“It has given me a framework where I can position myself for high functioning leadership. It has shown me how to understand and define self in the chaotic atmosphere of the church I serve. The work in family systems theory is giving me hope to stay on.”

“Thank you, Dr. Gilbert, once again for an excellent year. The interaction of didactic/coaching sessions was very effective. I appreciate the energy you invest through your own research, lining up speakers and coaching. My functioning in home life and congregational life has gone up and I’m generally more relaxed and less anxious in these roles. It’s also helped me define self and personal/family/vocational directions. It has been a fertile setting for my growth and development.”

SM: "Invaluable for both personal growth and professional development. I especially valued the clarity and simplicity of Bowen's concepts. . .It was extremely refreshing to participate in a forum where self-examination (thoughtful self-reflection) and willingness to change ones self (modeled by the instructors) formed the basis of academic inquiry.

IE: The Extraordinary Leadership Seminar provides an academic setting in which to analyze and evaluate your personal leadership style. It also provides a framework for analyzing systems. A wonderful opportunity for personal growth and corporate change.

AH: The Extraordinary Leadership Seminar is an excellent introduction to Bowen family systems theory. There is a very good balance between theory and practice and the leaders are top flight.

WJ: By learning how to differentiate myself in all relationships I am becoming a better leader

RL: This seminar series offers a new and profound way of thinking about so many issues. From self-discovery through examination of family history to group process and the implications for leadership. I would recommend this program wholeheartedly to other pastors.

KL: I learned new ways to observe patterns in relationships in my own family and in church and work settings and different ways I can handle myself in those settings.

AS: Extraordinary Leadership training provides an outstanding way to reorganize your thinking about congregations and leadership styles needed to serve these congregations. Experience a new way of ordering your thinking about the church.

FW: I have discovered that authentic leadership begins with understanding oneself and moving up the scale of differentiation of self. I commend this seminar in giving tools, through systems theory, that have enabled me to begin the process toward improved leadership.

WW: What an eye and soul opening event! I am a better person because of systems thinking. I've come to understand my transgenerational family patterns. Ever5y clergy, regardless of their role in the church should take systems thinking.

LC: The class has helped me to function better. . .I've seen improvement in almost all areas.