The Monthly Note
June 2006
The different phases of teamwork
by Fr. Émery Désilets, OP
Nowadays, we work a lot in teams. In this kind of work, is it possible to be guided by the Holy Spirit? This is a question often asked by many, especially this time of year when spiritual, pastoral or apostolic evaluations are made.
The first phase seems negative. What is this going to accomplish? Comities and meetings. Therefore, not a phase to ignore.
The second phase is usually euphoric. It is the joy of working together, taking part in decision making. We discover that our brother and sisters have important apostolic preoccupations.
The third phase sometimes ends up with a clash. We try to reason, to make our point of view come out victorious. Sometimes while being on the look out for scapegoats, those responsible for our misfortunes.
The fourth phase involves compromises. We become aware that we are not owners of the truth. We realize that it would be ridiculous to elevate walls between different mentalities.
The fifth phase is that of consensus. Together, we search for the truth; we let the Holy Spirit guide us. It is a phase of creativity, of a combined and harmonious labor. Together, we ask the real questions; we go at the bottom of things. We combine our efforts on all levels. We reach a deeper sense of reality. We work out large and deep consensus.
Let us be guided by the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit will lead us to the truth.
Émery Désilets, o.p., Director
«Live by the Spirit» (Ga 5, 16)
