“Issues within the Glasgow steering group also indicate that shared values do not automatically resolve theological differences.” I’m really glad that this has been officially recognised and named, and should provide the basis for genuinely engaging with diversity of viewpoints within UE. My conviction is that a values-based organisation is shaped as much as any other organisation by theological conviction, its just that those convictions become more opaque and it becomes less easy to trace (and reflect on). With a values based organisation based on relationship it is a reality that the people who embody the values and the relationships that wield influence become even more crucial, and it is therefore all the more crucial to build in times where everyone can really get to know one another. One interesting reflection is that I know some Steering group members from other Steering Groups better than I know some of the folk on my own Steering Group! How do we foster and encourage good relationships within UE between team leaders and Steering Group members who are often very time starved? And if those relationships don’t exist, to what extent can Steering Groups wield influence in an organisation that strongly values relationships?

I think that Steering group members need to be proactive in building relationships with team leaders and team members in their care, and embrace the value of mutual accountability as much as anyone else…!