Greetings!
On October 2, 2023, the Central Philippine University Board of Trustees and Corporation announced the election and confirmation of Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy as the 18th President of the University who shall serve the term from November 1, 2023 up to October 31, 2028. Rev. Dagohoy is the first Pastor to become CPU President since the American Baptist missionaries.
What does the Bible say about leadership?
First, leaders should be servant leaders.
In Mark 10:45, Jesus sets the ultimate example of servant leadership. He, the Son of God, came not to be served but to serve. This principle teaches us that Christian leaders should have a heart of service. True leadership is not about wielding power or seeking personal gain but about putting the needs of others first.
When we lead with a servant’s heart, we emulate the humility and compassion of Jesus. It means being willing to roll up our sleeves and serve others, just as Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. It is a call to selflessness and sacrificial love.
Second, leaders must lead with integrity.
Proverbs 11:3 reminds us that the integrity of the upright guides them. Christian leaders must maintain a high standard of honesty and integrity. Integrity is the foundation of trust, and without trust, effective leadership is impossible.
In our leadership roles, we must be consistent in our words and actions, always striving to do what is right even when no one is watching. Leaders who lack integrity not only harm their reputation but also undermine the faith of those they lead.
Third, leaders should continually seek God’s wisdom.
Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding. This is a crucial aspect of Christian leadership. We often face complex decisions and challenges in leadership roles, and relying solely on our wisdom can lead to mistakes. Instead, we should seek God’s wisdom through prayer, Scripture, and seeking counsel from wise mentors and fellow believers.
When we submit our ways to the Lord, He promises to guide our paths. Christian leaders should continuously seek God’s will and direction, recognizing that God’s wisdom far surpasses our own.
Christian leadership is a calling that requires us to follow the example of Jesus by serving others, leading with unwavering integrity, and seeking God’s wisdom in all that we do. When we lead in this manner, we bring honor to God and positively impact those we are called to lead.
Let us pray for the leadership of the incoming CPU President, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy.
May God bless us all!
Sincerely,
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
Director, Office of Communications