Work That Glorifies God
Dignity of Work Honesty Justice Respect Faith
Work That Glorifies God
Dignity of Work Honesty Justice Respect Faith
At the SENT Summit 2024, a panel of leading figures in faith-based media convened to discuss the evolving landscape of media and evangelization. Moderated by Deacon Charlie Echeverry, the panel featured Michael Warsaw, CEO of EWTN Global Catholic Network; Bill Abbott, CEO of Great American Media; and actor-producer Lorenzo Henrie of Novo Media Group. The conversation centered on the risks and opportunities that modern media presents for faith-based content creators, especially in reaching both current and future generations.
Referencing Pope Pius XII's encyclical Miranda Prorsus on mass media, the panel acknowledged the significant impact that media has on shaping culture through the senses. Michael Warsaw highlighted the fragmentation of media consumption and audiences, expressing concern over the challenges this poses in building and maintaining community within the faith. However, he also noted the "incredible opportunities" that digital platforms offer for global evangelization, allowing organizations like EWTN to extend their mission in unprecedented ways.
Bill Abbott brought attention to the dominance of major tech companies and the risks they pose to religious freedom and freedom of speech. He emphasized the "mission against faith" that seems prevalent in Silicon Valley, noting the difficulty faith-based content faces in being carried on mainstream platforms like YouTube TV. Abbott advocated for unity among people of faith, stating that collaboration is essential to overcoming these systemic challenges.
Actor and producer Lorenzo Henrie stressed the need for faith-based media to take more significant risks and produce higher volumes of quality content. He argued that creating one film every few years is insufficient to influence culture meaningfully. Henrie also emphasized the importance of beauty in content creation, asserting that truly beautiful content has the power to deeply affect culture.
"We're not taking enough risk to produce good content," Henrie stated. "We need truly beautiful content to really affect culture."
The panel agreed that faith-based media often struggles with limited budgets compared to secular productions. They discussed the necessity of higher investment to produce content that can compete in quality and appeal with mainstream media. This investment is not just financial but also involves a commitment to storytelling that resonates with broader audiences.
A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the ethical and strategic considerations of partnering with mainstream media platforms that may not align with faith-based values. While acknowledging the challenges and biases present, Michael Warsaw pointed out that to be effective in their mission, faith-based media must be present "in the midst of those services." He recalled Mother Angelica's perspective that the mission field often exists where "there's filth and porn and all kinds of bad stuff," and that's precisely where evangelization is needed.
Abbott echoed the sentiment but expressed concern over being "at the mercy" of tech giants who may suppress faith-based content. The consensus was that while collaboration with these platforms is fraught with difficulties, it's a necessary endeavor to reach wider audiences.
The panelists emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the faith-based media sector. They cited examples like the cooperative efforts behind successful projects such as "Sound of Freedom," where overcoming internal divisions led to broader success. The need to break down territorial barriers and support one another's projects was highlighted as a crucial step toward making a more significant cultural impact.
"If I don't help them both win, we're not going to win at all," Henrie remarked, referencing the importance of mutual support among creators.
Addressing the challenge of reaching a younger, increasingly secular audience, the panelists discussed strategies for making faith-based content more appealing. With Generation Z being the most media-active yet least religiously affiliated generation, there's a pressing need to create content that is both entertaining and imbued with virtuous themes.
Henrie emphasized the importance of storytelling that entertains first, then elevates and educates. He pointed out that films like "Super Mario Brothers" can instill virtues such as sacrifice and brotherhood without being overtly religious.
"For us, we have to tell high-quality, entertaining stories so that we can reach those kids and really touch their hearts," Henrie said.
Warsaw mentioned EWTN's initiative, EWTN Next, aimed at becoming a digital-first organization to better meet the media consumption habits of younger audiences. By focusing on content that resonates with the youth and utilizing platforms they frequent, faith-based media can have a more substantial impact.
The overarching message from the panel was clear: to navigate the future of media and evangelization effectively, faith-based media must prioritize unity, invest in higher-quality productions, and be intentional in reaching audiences where they are. This involves taking calculated risks, embracing new technologies, and fostering collaboration across denominational lines.
Abbott stressed the importance of a united front: "All people of faith have a lot more in common together than they do apart. It's critical that all people of faith unite around faith-based content."
By doing so, faith-based media can overcome the challenges posed by a fragmented media landscape and secular biases. The goal is not merely to compete with mainstream media but to offer compelling, beautiful content that resonates on a human level, shaping culture positively and drawing people toward truth and goodness.
The intersection of faith and technology presents both challenges and opportunities. By prioritizing contemplation, integrity, and keeping the dignity of the human person at the forefront, faith-based media leaders can create products that not only meet market needs but also contribute to the spiritual well-being of their audiences. As demonstrated by the panelists at the SENT Summit, integrating faith into media is not just possible—it's essential for fostering a culture that values truth, beauty, and goodness.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/bridging-faith-and-media-navigating-the-future-of-evangelization
At the SENT Summit 2024, General Kevin Chilton captivated the audience with a deeply personal account of his unique journey—a journey that took him from a boy fascinated by flight to an astronaut carrying the Eucharist into space. His story is not just about the milestones of an illustrious career but also about the profound intersections of faith, duty, and the awe-inspiring experience of seeing Earth from Space.
Growing up in Southern California, just a mile north of Los Angeles International Airport, Chilton was immersed in the world of aviation from a young age. Attending Visitation Grammar School and St. Bernard's High School—both located near the airport's runways—he developed an early fascination with airplanes.
"I would lay on my back and watch airplanes take off," Chilton recalled. "These magical devices made of metal, full of people, flying over my head—it instilled in me a sense of wonder about flight."
His parents were the foundational pillars of his faith and aspirations. His mother, originally raised in the Mormon faith, converted to Catholicism when she married his father, a devout Catholic. "My mother was like most converts who convert in their adult years—they're all in and very devout," he noted. His parents ensured that all four of their children received a Catholic education, further cementing the role of faith in his life.
At the age of 12, a chance encounter set the course for his future. After a spontaneous decision to join his friend Bill for a trip to Manhattan Beach, Chilton met Bill's older brother, Dan, who was home from college.
"I asked Dan where he went to college, and he said, 'I go to the Air Force Academy,'" Chilton recounted. Upon learning that the academy would teach him to fly jets and even pay him to attend, Chilton was sold. "That day, in the back of the Toomey mobile on the way to Manhattan Beach, I decided that's where I was going to go to college."
This moment was one of several Chilton described as "providential," doors that God opened for him to step through. These moments, he believes, are instances where divine will intersects with personal choice, guiding one toward their destiny.
Initially considering a major in geography, Chilton's academic path shifted after he took his first engineering class at the Air Force Academy. "I fell in love with engineering," he said. "I realized that I could use math not just to solve puzzles but to build dams, bridges, airplanes, and even rocket ships."
His newfound passion led him to become a test pilot, a role that married his love for flying with his engineering skills. It was during his time as a test pilot that he met his future wife, Cathy, who was one of the few women in the program and an exceptional engineer.
Although initially uninterested in becoming an astronaut, Chilton eventually applied to NASA to continue flying rather than be assigned a desk job at the Pentagon. He joined NASA's astronaut program in 1987 and began rigorous training for space missions.
It was during this period that he had a conversation with a colleague, David Low, who mentioned taking the Eucharist into space. "I thought, 'Oh my gosh, that sounds so beautiful.' I decided that when I flew, I would try to do the same thing," Chilton said.
Before his first mission, Chilton approached his pastor, Father Tom, with an unusual request—to take the Eucharist with him into space. Despite the last-minute nature of the request and the fact that Chilton was not yet a Eucharistic Minister, Father Tom agreed, quipping, "Paperwork to follow."
Chilton described the profound responsibility and honor of carrying the Eucharist: "It was like holding the most precious thing on planet Earth. I never let it leave my side."
He prepared for his missions not just physically and mentally but also spiritually. "I went to confession, received the Eucharist at Mass, and even had a Mass on the beach at the Kennedy Space Center," he shared.
One of the most striking anecdotes Chilton shared was his first orbital sunrise. After reaching orbit, he mistook the curvature of the Earth for a crack in the shuttle's window. His commander corrected him, and as he watched, the sun rose over the horizon in a display of unparalleled beauty.
"It was the brightest, whitest light I've ever seen, juxtaposed against the blackness of space," he said. "I immediately thought of the Transfiguration of our Lord."
Another profound moment occurred during his second mission. Alongside fellow Catholic astronauts Sid Gutierrez and Tom Jones, Chilton shared the Eucharist while orbiting Earth. "As I placed the host on my tongue, I felt this incredible heat in my face," he recounted. At that exact moment, the sun burst through the window, illuminating them. "All three of us started to cry. It was such an emotional moment."
Chilton expressed deep concern over statistics indicating that only 30% of practicing Catholics believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. He emphasized the importance of faith, comparing it to trusting an airplane to fly without understanding the mechanics fully.
"Why did I believe in the Eucharist? Because the Sisters of Charity told me it was, and I believed them. My parents told me it was, and I believed them," he said. "I have to take that on faith, and I've got to stop spending time trying to prove it. I just have to believe it."
He also touched on the humbling perspective of seeing Earth from space, realizing the vastness of humanity and God's love for each individual. "I thought about the six million people under my thumb as I looked down at Los Angeles," he said. "God loves every one of those people individually. It was an incredibly humbling moment for me."
Concluding his talk, Chilton reflected on the significance of carrying the Eucharist into space. "I would have loved to have taken my wife and kids because it's so much fun up there, but I couldn't," he said. "But I found out I could take the Lord with me in my heart."
He emphasized that his experiences in space deepened his faith and offered him a unique perspective on God's creation and love. "The opportunity to receive the Body of Christ while looking down on our Lord's great creation was indescribable," he shared. "He was a great crewmate."
General Kevin Chilton's journey is a testament to the intertwining paths of faith and vocation. His stories from space are not just about the marvels of the universe but also about the intimate moments of connection with God that transcend earthly boundaries. His experiences challenge us to reflect on our own faith journeys, the providential moments that shape our lives, and the mysteries that call for our belief even when they surpass our understanding.
By sharing his story, Chilton invites us to look up—to the skies, to the stars, and ultimately, to the divine presence of God that accompanies us wherever we go, even to the far reaches of space.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/faith-among-the-stars-general-kevin-chiltons-journey-to-space
For many entrepreneurs, anxiety feels like an unwelcome companion—lurking in the background, ready to hold them back from peak performance. However, research shows that anxiety, when viewed through the right lens, can actually be a powerful tool for success.
Stanford psychologist Kelly McGonigal thoroughly debunks the anxiety myth in her book The Upside of Stress. She walks through numerous studies showing the benefits of anxiety for both health and performance. For example, an eight-year study showed that anxiety only reduced life span if the participant believed anxiety was harmful. Participants who didn’t believe anxiety was harmful had longer life spans, even if they experienced a high level of anxiety. Thus, it is our mindset, not our anxiety level, that harms our physical well-being.
Allison Wood Brooks, a researcher at Harvard Business School, took this idea a step further in her 2013 paper Get Excited: Reappraising Pre-Performance Anxiety as Excitement. Across several experiments, Brooks found that individuals who reframed their anxiety as excitement consistently outperformed their counterparts in tasks ranging from public speaking to math tests. Simply stating, “I am excited,” led to measurable improvements.
Perhaps most strikingly, a 2018 study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology showed that even a brief intervention could yield lasting effects. College students preparing for the GRE who read a short passage about the benefits of anxiety scored significantly higher on a practice exam. Incredibly, when they took the real GRE three months later, the gains not only persisted but increased, with no additional intervention.
As an entrepreneur, you likely face a constant stream of challenges that can trigger anxiety. But what if you could harness that adrenaline surge to propel you forward? By embracing challenges as opportunities to learn, grow, and serve others, you can channel that energy into heightened cognitive performance. In essence, anxiety becomes a natural performance enhancer when directed toward productive ends. By actively seeking out challenges—even creating them for yourself—you can build resilience and transform your relationship with anxiety.
Start small by identifying a task you've been avoiding, whether it's a difficult conversation or a high-stakes project. Rather than shying away, dive in headfirst. Embrace the discomfort as a sign that you're growing. Reflect on how facing your fears boosts your confidence and skills.
Over time, this approach can revolutionize not only your work but also your personal life. You'll find yourself energized by challenges, eager to test your limits. As you model this mindset for others, you'll create a culture of growth and resilience that permeates your organization. By befriending your anxiety and leveraging it as a tool for growth, you'll unlock new levels of performance and fulfillment as an entrepreneur.
The science is clear—your beliefs about anxiety shape its impact. So choose to see it as an ally, and watch as your entrepreneurial journey reaches new heights.
Dr. Johann M. D’Souza is a clinical psychologist with a passion for helping people overcome anxiety, distraction, and OCD. With a commitment to scientifically supported treatments, he works to guide clients in transforming challenges into opportunities for personal growth. His approach is rooted in understanding thoughts, emotions, and actions to help clients unlock their fullest potential. His practice Values First Therapy offers modern psychology with traditional family values. In addition, he hosts the Virtuous Leaders show to highlight inspiring examples of moral and professional excellence.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/anxiety-the-secret-to-entrepreneurial-success
In today's evolving business landscape, the intersection of faith and leadership offers a unique perspective on how values can shape organizational culture, employee engagement, and overall success. At the SENT Summit 2024, a panel comprising Michelle Hillaert, Dina Dwyer-Owens, Myles Harrington, and Peter Rex shared insights on how their faith influences their leadership styles and business practices. This article distills the key takeaways from their discussion.
Faith as a Compass
Each panelist emphasized that faith serves as an internal compass, guiding their daily decisions and actions. They view leadership not merely as a position of authority but as a calling to serve others.
Peter Rex, founder of Rex, highlights the importance of "going all in for Christ" in business. He believes that leaders should not shy away from their faith but rather let it permeate their decision-making processes, even when facing challenges or controversies.
Dina Dwyer-Owens, former CEO of Neighborly, attributes her success to treating people with respect and dignity, principles deeply rooted in faith. She believes that when leaders embody these values, success naturally follows.
Myles Harrington, co-founder of Grant Street Group, integrates Catholic social teaching into his company's ethos by emphasizing personalism—the respect for the dignity of each individual. This approach has created a culture of humility within his organization.
Operationalizing Core Values
Creating a company culture grounded in faith-based values involves more than statements; it requires actionable practices.
Dina Dwyer-Owens implemented a "Code of Values" at Neighborly, focusing on respect, integrity, customer focus, and having fun in the process. This code is not just displayed but actively practiced and reinforced through regular meetings and employee accountability.
Peter Rex has created a business culture where faith not only informs decision-making but serves as a guiding framework for creating greater transparency and resilience. His commitment to integrating faith into core business practices has allowed him to navigate complex challenges while maintaining a principled approach. This steadfastness in aligning his values with his company’s operations sets a powerful example of how faith-driven leadership can inspire both innovation and integrity in a highly competitive environment.
Hiring for Virtue
Selecting employees who align with the company's core values strengthens the organizational culture.
Myles Harrington emphasizes hiring for humility and virtue over credentials. Through an intensive interview process, his company seeks individuals who demonstrate generosity and a willingness to serve others.
Leaders often face pressure when their faith-based values conflict with prevailing societal norms.
Peter Rex shares experiences of maintaining his stance on contentious issues like pro-life legislation and company policies during the pandemic. By remaining true to his beliefs, he sets a precedent for courage within his organization.
Handling disagreements with empathy and respect is crucial.
Dina Dwyer-Owens recounts instances where employees objected to company practices rooted in faith, such as opening meetings with prayer. By respecting their choices, she maintained an inclusive environment without compromising her values.
Daily Commitment to Faith
A personal plan of life is foundational to effective leadership.
Dina Dwyer-Owens begins her day with prayer, attends daily Mass, and dedicates time to adoration and retreats. These practices provide clarity and strength, enabling her to lead with compassion and wisdom.
Peter Rex incorporates family prayer routines, including the rosary and reading scripture, aiming to foster a faith-centered home life that complements his professional life.
Myles Harrington engages in daily mental prayer and weekly Marian pilgrimages. These practices deepen his connection with God and help him to lead authentically.
"Love Serves" as a Leadership Ethos
The concept that "love serves" encapsulates the essence of faith-driven leadership.
Michelle Hillaert highlights this principle, emphasizing that leadership rooted in love focuses on serving others and recognizing their inherent worth.
Leaders who serve create environments where employees thrive.
Dina Dwyer-Owens views herself as a "Chief Evangelizing Officer," dedicated to uplifting others through her actions and decisions. By prioritizing the well-being of her employees, she models servant leadership.
Integrating faith into leadership is not without its challenges, especially in a secular business environment. However, the panelists demonstrate that when leaders remain authentic to their beliefs, treat others with respect and dignity, and build company cultures grounded in core values, they not only navigate these challenges but also achieve great success.
Faith-driven leadership transforms organizations by creating environments where employees feel valued, empowered, and aligned with a greater purpose. By embracing these principles and practices, leaders can navigate the complexities of modern business while staying true to their faith, ultimately making a lasting impact on their organizations and the wider community.
Resources for Further Exploration:
Books:
Love Works: Seven Timeless Principles for Effective Leaders by Joel Manby
Personalist Philosophy: Understanding 'Person and Act' by Miguel Acosta and Adrian J. Reimers
The Rule of Saint Benedict translated by Leonard J. Doyle
At the SENT Summit 2024, a highlight was the panel "Scaling Startups: More Than Just Surviving," which distilled the core principles of building mission-driven companies in the modern world. Moderated by Zaz Floreani, a seasoned investor and partner at First Mile Ventures, the panel featured leading entrepreneurs who shared their insights on thriving amidst the challenges of scaling a startup:
Alex Jones, CEO and co-founder of Hallow, the world's leading Catholic prayer and meditation app.
Thomas Lehrman, partner at Teamworthy Ventures and co-founder of GLG, the world's largest network of experts.
Tim Connors, founder and managing partner of PivotNorth Capital, a venture firm dedicated to solving grand challenges through technology.
Their collective wisdom offered invaluable insights into the entrepreneurial journey, the integration of faith and work, and the pursuit of ventures that not only succeed but also serve a greater good.
Alex Jones: A Spiritual Awakening Leading to Hallow
Alex Jones shared a deeply personal story of how his journey from agnosticism back to faith led to the creation of Hallow. Disillusioned with traditional prayer, he sought solace in secular meditation apps like Headspace and Calm. However, during meditation, he felt an inexplicable pull towards spiritual symbols and phrases like the cross and "Come Holy Spirit."
After consulting with priests and diving into contemplative prayer practices like Lectio Divina and Ignatian spirituality, Alex experienced a profound moment while meditating on the word "hallow" from the Lord's Prayer. This epiphany not only rekindled his faith but also inspired him to create an app that bridges modern technology with prayer.
"I had to quit my job, drain my 401(k) at 25 years old—which was a stupid thing to do—and do this crazy startup thing that had like a 99.9% chance of failure," Alex recounted. Yet, the initial feedback from a small group of users was transformative, validating his mission and fueling his commitment.
Thomas Lehrman: The Power of Customer-Centric Adaptation
Thomas Lehrman's entrepreneurial journey began in the late '90s when he co-founded GLG. Initially, the idea was to create research guides across various sectors, but conversations with potential customers steered them towards a more focused, client-centric approach.
"We realized we needed to focus... and go talk to some customers about what they'd like," Thomas explained. This pivot led to the creation of a consultancy brokerage model that connected clients directly with experts, a novel concept at the time.
Thomas emphasized the importance of adaptability and the willingness to refine one's business model based on customer feedback. This customer-centric approach not only saved GLG from early pitfalls but also set the foundation for its success.
Tim Connors: Mission-Driven Investing and the Joy of Doing Good
Tim Connors shared his passion for investing in startups that solve real-world problems and serve the underserved. Growing up in a modest family, Tim understood the struggles of those living paycheck to paycheck. This drove him to invest in companies like Chime, a banking service that eliminates overdraft fees and helps people manage their finances more effectively.
"We did a lot of good in the world... 100 million American families paid a lot less last year on overdraft fees because of this crazy idea I had 12 years ago," Tim noted.
He highlighted the importance of building win-win businesses that do well by doing good, a philosophy that not only yields financial returns but also brings genuine joy and fulfillment.
A central theme of the panel was the interplay between faith and professional life, especially in secular industries.
Surrendering Outcomes to God
For Alex, whose work with Hallow is intrinsically linked to his faith, the journey has been one of surrender and trust in divine providence. Facing the task of fundraising and dealing with rejections, he turned to prayer.
"I was like, 'God, I don't think you chose the right guy for this. I can't do this. It's too much,'" he shared. In a moment of surrender, he placed the outcome in God's hands, leading to unexpected success.
Living Faith Authentically
Navigating the often secular and high-pressure environment of Silicon Valley, Tim emphasizes authenticity and leading by example.
"I live my faith very openly... and they're drawn to the joy that comes from someone living the two greatest commandments: love God and love your neighbor," he explained.
Tim believes that by embodying these principles, he can influence others positively without the need for overt evangelization.
Pursue a Worthy Mission: Choose a venture that not only has market potential but also serves a greater good.
Embrace Humility and Adaptability: Be willing to listen, learn, and pivot based on feedback from customers and advisors.
Integrate Faith and Work Authentically: Whether overt or subtle, let your values guide your professional actions and relationships.
Build Strong Relationships: Surround yourself with supportive partners, mentors, and investors who share your vision.
Surrender and Trust: Work diligently but recognize that you cannot control every outcome. Trust in the process and surrender to God’s providence.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/scaling-startups-beyond-survival-insights-from-sent-summit-2024
At the SENT Summit 2024, a panel of leading entrepreneurs gathered to share their unfiltered insights on integrating faith into the world of business. Moderated by Jeff Schiefelbein, the discussion featured Rob Reynolds of Cross Boss Media, Jessica Rey of Rey Swimwear, and Geoff Gentile of Abdiel Capital. Their candid conversation delved into the challenges and triumphs of building businesses rooted in faith, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs.
The panel began by tackling a fundamental question: Is building a business with faith at its core inherently harder? While some argue that faith adds complexity to the entrepreneurial journey, Geoff Gentile offered a different perspective. He suggested that shared faith among business partners can actually ease challenges because it aligns values and fosters deeper trust.
"When your partner is a person of faith and very self-possessed, hard things become easier because you're united in the deepest values," Geoff explained. He emphasized that faith can serve as a stabilizing force during turbulent times, providing a shared lens that can help guide decision-making.
Identity Rooted in Faith
A recurring theme was the importance of grounding one's identity in faith rather than in business success or failure. Geoff highlighted that recognizing ourselves as sons and daughters of God helps maintain perspective amid the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
"Our deepest identity is that we're sons and daughters of God. When you have that identity secure, the amount of joy or sorrow you get from a boom year or a bust year is dust in the scales," he noted. This mindset allows entrepreneurs to navigate setbacks without losing sight of their ultimate purpose.
Standing Firm on Principles
Jeff Schiefelbein recounted a pivotal moment when his company considered acquiring a firm that serviced a Planned Parenthood account. Faced with a conflict between business interests and personal convictions, he chose to stand firm in his beliefs.
"I can't work in an organization where we're going to give them good energy advice," Jeff told his CEO. Despite potential backlash, he resolved the situation by excluding the account from the acquisition. This decision, while straining professional relationships, reaffirmed his commitment to integrating faith into business practices.
The Cost of Conviction
Jeff's experience underscores the sacrifices that often accompany ethical steadfastness. His story illustrates that adhering to one's values may come with professional costs but ultimately contributes to a more authentic and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.
The Accidental Entrepreneur
Jessica Rey shared her path from accounting major to actress to founder of Rey Swimwear. Navigating the fashion industry without formal training, she relied on faith to guide her steps. One of her significant challenges was balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood.
"Being a woman entrepreneur who also wants to stay home with her children has been a challenge," Jessica admitted. She faced pressure to conform to industry norms, including suggestions to hire a nanny and put her children in school. Instead, she chose to homeschool her kids and involve them in her entrepreneurial journey.
The Power of Rest and Ritual
Jessica highlighted the transformative impact of observing the Sabbath. By dedicating one day a week to rest and refrain from work-related activities, she found renewed energy and focus.
"Having one day where I didn't do anything work-related or homeschool-related was very helpful," she said. This highlights the importance of setting boundaries and having order in one's life alongside professional responsibilities.
Uncompromising Faith Practices
Rob Reynolds emphasized the role of consistent faith habits in maintaining spiritual health amidst entrepreneurial demands. He shared how scheduling daily Mass became a non-negotiable part of his routine, even when it conflicted with business engagements.
"If you don't compromise on stuff regarding your faith, you have time to do it," Rob asserted. By prioritizing his relationship with God, he found that other aspects of life and business fell into place more naturally.
Letting Go of Outcomes
Rob also spoke about focusing on the process rather than fixating on outcomes. He encouraged entrepreneurs to control what they can—namely, their actions and dedication—while leaving the results to God.
"You have to stick to the process and let God worry about the outcomes," he advised. This approach reduces anxiety and creates a sense of peace, knowing that ultimate success is in God’s hands.
The Virtue of Risk-Taking
The panel agreed that entrepreneurship inherently involves risk, but approaching it through the lens of faith adds a layer of trust and purpose. Geoff pointed out that taking risks is a fundamental aspect of living out one's faith.
"When we put ourselves in the hands of a living God, that is fundamentally a risky proposition," he said. Accepting this uncertainty becomes an act of faith in itself.
Acceptance of Failure as Part of the Journey
Acknowledging that not all ventures will succeed, the panelists emphasized the importance of viewing failure as a potential part of God's plan. Geoff suggested that setbacks might be necessary for personal development and deeper reliance on faith and trust in God’s providence.
"God might want us to fail... if that's what's required for us to get to heaven, then blessed be God," he reflected. This perspective encourages entrepreneurs to remain faithful and resilient, regardless of outcomes.
By grounding their identities in faith, prioritizing their relationship with God, and embracing both risk and the possibility of failure, these entrepreneurs show that true success is not defined by financial gain or successful outcomes, but by living in alignment with God’s will.
Bill DiSciullo
Mysterious ways, beautiful stories, people & faith. Their meek boldness galvanizes my own faith and energy. Like them, let me 'be bold, still be bold: always be bold' (Mirabeau), knowing outcomes are like 'dust in the scales.' (Geoff Gentile).
After 25 years in Wall Street and asset management, like finding wellspring I'd been quietly thirsting for and seeking to live out, without knowing the who, what, where or how to do so. What a God-send (quasi-pun unintended). I'm excited for all the living stones involved, and ready to help. however I can.
-Our Lord's Peace be with all SENT Ventures' members, associates & their families.
WJ DiSciullo, Jr. ("Bill")
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/getting-real-faith-driven-entrepreneurship-at-sent-summit-2024
In today’s business environment, the idea of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has gained prominence as companies seek to align their operations with ethical, social, and environmental goals. Catholic Social Teaching (CST), a body of doctrine developed by the Church that focuses on justice, human dignity, and the common good, provides a rich moral foundation that closely parallels many CSR principles. This article explores how Catholic Social Teaching can inform and enhance corporate social responsibility, offering businesses a deeper ethical framework for promoting sustainability, human dignity, and justice.
Catholic Social Teaching and Its Relevance to CSR
CST emphasizes several core principles that are highly relevant to corporate social responsibility, including:
- Human Dignity: Every person is worthy of respect and dignified treatment.
- The Common Good: Businesses should contribute to the well-being of society, not just pursue profit.
- Solidarity: There is an obligation to stand in unity with the most vulnerable and marginalized.
- Subsidiarity: Decision-making should be made at the most appropriate level, encouraging responsibility at all levels.
These principles provide a moral compass for companies looking to make ethical decisions that align with both business goals and societal needs. CST’s focus on human dignity, fairness, and justice challenges businesses to go beyond profit and embrace a mission that enhances society, through addressing key human and spiritual needs.
CSR and Human Dignity in the Workplace
At the heart of both CST and CSR is the respect for human dignity. This principle mandates that businesses treat their employees with fairness, provide safe working conditions, and offer wages that meet basic human needs. In many ways, CSR initiatives that focus on employee well-being—such as offering fair wages, diversity and inclusion, and promoting work-life balance—align closely with the Catholic teaching on the dignity of work and workers.
Catholic Social Teaching encourages the recognition of employees’ gifts and talents, advocating for their development and empowerment. Companies that invest in employee growth, offer opportunities for education and advancement, and foster an inclusive, supportive environment are acting in line with both CSR goals and CST principles.
The Common Good and Environmental Stewardship
Catholic Social Teaching calls for business leaders to prioritize the common good in their operations. This means that companies should aim to benefit society as a whole, not just their shareholders. CSR initiatives like community engagement, charitable giving, and investment in local economies are ways that businesses can contribute to the common good.
Caring for God’s creation is a core aspect of Catholic Social Teaching, and it ties directly into CSR efforts focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si emphasizes the moral responsibility businesses have to protect the environment. Companies engaged in CSR are expected to reduce their carbon footprint, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the fight against climate change, which aligns with CST’s call for environmental care.
Solidarity
Solidarity, a key principle of CST, requires companies to stand with the poor, oppressed, and marginalized. In terms of CSR, this translates into ensuring fair labor practices. Businesses must be vigilant in preventing exploitation, unfair wages, and unsafe working conditions in every part of their operations. Ethical sourcing, responsible labor practices, and partnerships with suppliers who share these values are critical in upholding solidarity within corporate practices.
Many CSR efforts focus on ensuring that products are sourced in a way that is fair and responsible. Catholic Social Teaching supports the fair trade movement, which seeks to provide just compensation and working conditions for laborers in developing countries. By aligning their CSR initiatives with CST principles, companies can help combat exploitation and poverty while promoting economic justice globally.
Subsidiarity and Corporate Governance
The principle of subsidiarity in CST emphasizes that decisions should be made at the most appropriate level—preferably close to those affected by the decisions. This can be mirrored in corporate governance through responsible delegation of authority and empowering employees at all levels to take initiative and responsibility. By encouraging autonomy and decision-making at the local level, companies can create more responsive, ethical, and transparent business practices.
Subsidiarity also calls for businesses to create cultures that foster ethical behavior at every level. Companies that cultivate ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability create environments where employees feel empowered to make decisions that uphold the values of both CSR and CST. This leads to more socially responsible actions, contributing to long-term success and sustainability.
Conclusion
Catholic Social Teaching offers a deeply ethical and holistic framework that complements and enriches the principles of Corporate Social Responsibility. By integrating the values of human dignity, the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity into their CSR strategies, businesses can ensure that they are not only profitable but also purposeful. The intersection of CST and CSR provides a pathway for companies to make a lasting positive impact on society, the environment, and the global economy. Ultimately, businesses that operate with a commitment to these shared values help to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.
In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to overlook the value of human connection amidst metrics and deadlines. Yet, research from Harvard’s Study of Adult Development reveals: strong relationships are not just nice to have—they are essential for happiness, longevity, and professional success. When approached with a faith-driven perspective, these connections take on even greater meaning, enriching both our personal and professional lives.
Integrating Relationships with Business Principles
The Catholic understanding of human dignity emphasizes that we are created for community. This foundational truth aligns with studies showing that people with strong, supportive relationships are healthier, happier, and more successful. For business leaders, meaningful connections with colleagues, employees, and clients isn't just a strategy.
Relationships grounded in mutual respect and service can elevate both workplace culture and individual performance.
Why Relationships Matter
Research from Harvard’s Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on human happiness, confirms that strong relationships are the most significant predictor of happiness and health. In professional contexts, leaders with high emotional intelligence and deep connections with their teams are shown to outperform their peers.
On a spiritual level, these findings echo the scriptural call to love our neighbors as ourselves. When we genuinely invest in others—whether through mentorship, collaboration, or simple acts of kindness—we reflect Christ’s teachings and love.
Challenges as Growth Opportunities
Building strong relationships in the workplace isn’t without its challenges. Personality clashes, differing priorities, and time constraints can make meaningful connection difficult. Yet, these obstacles offer opportunities for growth.
A workplace that invests in connection is one where employees feel seen, heard, and valued. At SENT, we deeply embrace this principle, inviting Catholic executives and entrepreneurs into a supportive community where they can grow together and strive to become the best versions of themselves.
Practical Tips for Meaningful Connections
Lead with Authenticity: Be transparent and genuine in your interactions. People are more likely to trust leaders who show vulnerability and care.
Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Focus on a few meaningful relationships rather than spreading yourself too thin.
Schedule Time for Connection: Just as you prioritize meetings, block time to connect with team members or mentors on a deeper level.
Serve First: Seek opportunities to serve others in your workplace, whether through mentorship, collaboration, or support in times of need.
Reflect on Your Relationships: Regularly evaluate how your faith is influencing your connections and ask where you can grow in love and service.
As Catholic leaders, we are called to model Christ in our relationships. By investing in meaningful connections, we not only achieve professional success but also build communities that reflect God’s kingdom on earth. Strong relationships fuel happiness, longevity, and success—and through them, we inspire others to lead with faith, purpose, and love.
As workplaces evolve, one metric is emerging as an unexpected predictor of success: connection. In a business world often dominated by performance metrics and productivity tools, connection—both personal and professional—is proving to be the key to happiness, collaboration, and sustainable success.
Faith teaches us that humans are relational beings, created to live in community and support one another. This truth translates into the workplace. Studies show that employees who feel connected to their teams and leaders are more engaged, innovative, and committed to their organizations.
As Catholic leaders, we have a unique opportunity to foster connection in ways that reflect our values. By prioritizing meaningful relationships, we not only cultivate happier teams but also demonstrate servant leadership rooted in faith.
Harvard Study of Adult Development: This 85-year study found that strong relationships are the greatest predictors of happiness and health. In workplaces, these findings translate to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.
Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace Report: Employees who feel connected to their colleagues are 50% more likely to stay with their organization and report being 2.5x more engaged in their roles.
From a spiritual perspective, these findings align with the principle of solidarity, reminding us that we are called to uplift one another, both personally and professionally.
In today’s hybrid and remote work environments, building authentic connections can feel daunting. Yet, these challenges present an opportunity for growth. By embracing intentional communication, active listening, and trust, leaders can create a culture of connection even in virtual spaces.
Host Connection-Driven Meetings: Dedicate time in meetings for personal check-ins or shared prayer.
Recognize Individual Contributions: Celebrate team members' milestones and achievements to create a culture of appreciation.
Encourage Mentorship: Create mentorship opportunities that align personal growth with professional development.
Invest in Team Retreats: Organize retreats focused on reflection and team building to deepen connections.
Lead by Example: As a leader, model vulnerability, authenticity, and a willingness to connect on a deeper level.
Organizations that prioritize connection see it ripple across every facet of their business. From innovation to employee retention, the benefits of meaningful relationships cannot be overstated. SENT embodies this by offering Catholic leaders a space to grow in faith and professional excellence while building a network of like-minded peers.
Ready to make connection your organization’s competitive advantage? Join SENT and discover how integrating faith and business can transform your leadership.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/the-science-of-happiness-at-work-why-connection-is-the-new-kpi
In today’s fast-paced business world, leadership often focuses on results: growth, efficiency, and profits. Yet, the most effective leaders embrace something deeper—a foundation of faith, friendship, and flourishing. These three pillars not only enhance leadership success but also create lasting impact.
This approach is especially relevant for Catholic leaders who view relationships as an essential part of their vocation. By nurturing these pillars, leaders can create environments that inspire connection, purpose, and growth.
Faith offers a guiding framework for leadership, reminding us of our shared dignity as children of God. For Catholic leaders, integrating faith into daily decisions ensures that relationships and business practices honor this truth.
Practical Applications:
Lead with Service: Reflect Christ’s example by prioritizing the needs of your team and clients.
Anchor in Values: Make decisions rooted in justice and love, even in challenging situations.
Foster Trust: Create spaces where employees feel safe to share their ideas, challenges, and aspirations.
Faith gives leaders the clarity to align their actions with eternal truths, resulting in workplaces where people thrive.
Aristotle described friendship as the highest form of human connection, and in leadership, it serves as a bridge between authority and trust. Meaningful friendships at work improve team dynamics, improve collaboration, and reduce isolation—particularly in remote or hybrid environments.
The Data on Friendship:
Gallup’s Workplace Report shows that employees with a best friend at work are 7x more likely to be engaged in their jobs.
True friendship reflects Christ’s command to “love one another.”
Invest in Relationships: Take time to know your colleagues on a personal level.
Encourage Collaboration: Create opportunities for teams to connect beyond work tasks, such as work retreats or shared meals.
Mentorship as Friendship: Approach mentorship with a spirit of mutual growth, forming relationships that benefit both parties.
Friendship not only humanizes leadership but also creates the trust needed to achieve extraordinary results.
Leadership isn’t just about achieving success; it’s about helping others flourish. When leaders invest in the holistic well-being of their teams—spiritually, mentally, and professionally—they create environments where everyone can thrive.
Key Elements of Flourishing Leadership:
Purpose: Align team goals with a mission that inspires.
Growth: Offer opportunities for professional and spiritual development.
Belonging: Foster a culture where everyone feels valued and included.
Deepen Your Faith: Regularly reflect on your leadership practices through prayer and scripture.
Cultivate Meaningful Connections: Make friendship a priority, balancing professionalism with genuine care.
Create Space for Flourishing: Develop initiatives that nurture the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of your team.
SENT provides the resources and community Catholic leaders need to build faith-driven businesses where relationships and results flourish. Join us today to grow alongside like-minded leaders.
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize industries and shape the future, ethical considerations around its development and deployment become ever more pressing. The rapid advancements in AI technology raise important questions about privacy, equity, and human dignity. Catholic values, rooted in the teachings of the Church, provide a strong moral framework for addressing these ethical dilemmas. By drawing on principles such as the dignity of the human person, the common good, and solidarity, Catholic leaders can play a pivotal role in ensuring that AI technologies serve humanity rather than exploit it.
The Dignity of the Human Person in AI Ethics
At the heart of Catholic social teaching is the belief in the inherent dignity of every human being. As AI systems become more integrated into our daily lives—affecting everything from healthcare to employment—there is a growing risk of dehumanization. AI can depersonalize interactions and decisions, reducing people to mere data points. Catholic values remind us that every individual is more than just an algorithmic output. Ethical AI must prioritize human dignity by ensuring that technology does not strip away people's agency or worth.
The Common Good and the Role of AI in Society
Catholic values call for the promotion of the common good—the idea that the benefits of society’s resources should be shared equitably. In the realm of AI, this means creating technologies that enhance the well-being of all, rather than concentrating power and wealth in the hands of a few. AI can be a tool for solving global problems like climate change, poverty, and healthcare inequities, but only if developed and used with a commitment to benefiting society as a whole.
Catholic social teaching emphasizes the responsibility of corporations to act ethically and contribute to the common good. As AI continues to shape industries, businesses that develop and deploy these technologies must ensure that their use of AI aligns with ethical principles. This could involve transparency in AI algorithms, ensuring fair labor practices in AI-driven automation, and prioritizing the well-being of workers whose jobs may be affected by AI.
Solidarity and the Ethical Use of AI
AI systems have the potential to make decisions on a massive scale, affecting entire populations. Whether in healthcare, education, or law enforcement, the decisions made by AI can have life-altering consequences. Leaders should engage in informed decision-making that reflects a commitment to the common good, transparency, and human dignity. Ethical governance of AI technologies is essential to ensuring that they serve humanity responsibly and justly.
Subsidiarity and the Role of Human Oversight in AI
The principle of subsidiarity, which emphasizes that decisions should be made at the most local level possible, has important implications for AI. While AI systems can be efficient in processing data and making predictions, there are limits to their decision-making capabilities, particularly when it comes to moral and ethical judgment. Catholic values stress the importance of human oversight in AI systems, ensuring that ultimate responsibility rests with individuals who can consider the broader human context, ethics, and values.
As AI innovation accelerates, there is a temptation to push boundaries without fully considering the moral consequences. Catholic values encourage a balanced approach that embraces innovation while maintaining a strong commitment to ethical responsibility. This means ensuring that AI technologies are developed and used in ways that respect human rights, avoid harm, and contribute to the common good.
Conclusion
As AI becomes an increasingly powerful force in shaping the future of society, Catholic values offer a moral framework that can guide its ethical development and use. By grounding AI ethics in the principles of human dignity, the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity, Catholic leaders and institutions can help ensure that AI technologies serve humanity in a way that upholds justice, fairness, and compassion. Navigating AI ethics through the lens of Catholic values is not only a way to safeguard human rights but also an opportunity to harness technology for the betterment of all.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/the-role-of-catholic-values-in-navigating-ai-ethics
St. Josemaría Escrivá’s vision of sanctifying work invites us to view professional life as a path to holiness. This teaching reframes work as more than a set of tasks—it becomes a meeting place with God, a platform for developing virtue, and a means of contributing to society. To live this vision fully, we need formation across spiritual, intellectual, human, and professional dimensions, allowing us to become Christ in our work.
Holiness in the workplace is a great adventure—a journey of discovering God in the ordinary and transcending personal limitations. It is a call to sanctify work, sanctify ourselves in work, and sanctify others through work. This requires approaching our professional work with love and purpose, turning desks, offices, and job sites into places where we offer our labor to God.
Key practices for spiritual formation in work:
Intentional offering: Treating work as a pleasing offering to God, united to Christ’s sacrifice in the Mass.
Constant dialogue with God: Regularly raising our hearts in thanksgiving, reparation, and petition, recognizing His presence in our struggles and efforts.
Finding Christ in fatigue: Viewing challenges and tiredness as opportunities to unite with Christ, who bore the burden of humanity’s suffering.
By integrating these practices, work becomes an expression of love for God and others.
Work is not only about productivity; it reflects our identity as co-creators with God. As Pope Francis reminds us, work involves every dimension of our being—thought, action, and creativity—and plays a pivotal role in shaping our lives and relationships.
Theological and intellectual formation:
Deepening our understanding of the vocation to work, rooted in Scripture, such as Adam’s calling to care for Eden (Genesis 2:15).
Reflecting on the redemptive value of Christ’s years as a carpenter and His sacrifice on the Cross.
This intellectual exploration strengthens our resolve to work with dignity, aligning our actions with the divine call to transform society.
Work is a training ground for developing virtues, which are essential for serving others effectively. These human qualities—strengthened by grace—shape our interactions and create a Christ-like approach to professional life.
Virtues to cultivate in the workplace:
Listening: Engaging with colleagues and clients with attentiveness and openness.
Humility: Recognizing our need for others and contributing generously to shared goals.
Commitment: Embracing responsibilities with perseverance, even when faced with challenges.
These virtues enable us to create a more human and supportive work environment, grounded in respect and genuine care for others.
The workplace is a natural setting for forming deep, authentic friendships that reflect the joy and peace of the Christian spirit. Through these relationships, we share in the challenges and joys of daily tasks, offering mutual support and encouragement.
Key aspects of workplace friendships:
Magnanimity: Treating colleagues with patience, honesty, and loyalty, even in competitive or challenging environments.
Sowing joy and peace: Creating a positive atmosphere that uplifts and unites.
Sharing faith naturally: Living out Christian values in a natural way that inspires and attracts others to God.
These friendships not only enrich professional life but also contribute to the sanctification of those around us.
Professional competence is an essential element of sanctifying work. Excellence in our field is not merely a practical necessity but a offering that glorifies God and serves others effectively.
Pursuing excellence in work:
Ongoing formation: Taking advantage of opportunities to grow in knowledge and skills through courses, mentorship, and self-directed learning.
Professional ethics: Living with integrity and upholding moral principles specific to one’s field, such as justice, compassion, and responsibility.
Creativity and innovation: Seeking ways to improve one’s profession and contribute to societal progress, whether by designing innovative solutions, mentoring younger colleagues, or advocating for fair practices.
By excelling in our work, we reflect the divine craftsmanship of our Creator and participate in the redemptive mission of Christ.
St. Josemaría Escrivá’s insights into the dignity of work offer a response to today’s challenges. He reminds us that work is not just a necessity or a means of survival; it is a calling to build a society that upholds the dignity of the human person. This vision of work as a vocation invites us to see our professional efforts as part of God’s plan to bring love and justice into the world.
Work is more than producing goods or providing services; it is a way to contribute meaningfully to the common good. St. Josemaría often compared work to building a cathedral. Even the simplest tasks, like making bricks, gain immense value when understood as part of a greater project that reflects God’s presence in the world. This vision gives every worker a sense of purpose, dignity, and responsibility.
As Pope Francis notes, work allows us to express creativity, develop talents, and build relationships. It is a setting for personal growth and an opportunity to live out our values, give glory to God, and contribute to the flourishing of others.
Love for the world and the people in it is central to the Christian vocation. This love is not conditional on the world’s perfection but stems from the realization that God has entrusted creation to us as a gift and responsibility. St. Josemaría emphasized that we must engage with the world’s realities—its joys, tragedies, and injustices—with a spirit of optimism, hope, and service.
This love drives us to meet others with empathy, listen to their needs, and work toward their good. It transforms professional work into acts of charity and justice, ensuring that work is not merely about individual achievement but about contributing to the well-being of society.
Work’s impact radiates outward in concentric circles, starting with the immediate environment and extending to society at large. By fulfilling our professional responsibilities with excellence, we strengthen the bonds of community and contribute to societal progress. For example:
Teachers educate future generations.
Engineers create infrastructure that connects and uplifts communities.
Each profession holds the potential to address pressing human and social needs, whether by promoting environmental sustainability, advocating for fair labor practices, or mentoring the next generation.
Transforming society begins with transforming the work environment. A more human workplace prioritizes relationships, collaboration, and respects the dignity of every individual. It involves:
Resolving conflicts with a spirit of charity and understanding.
Supporting colleagues through acts of kindness, such as helping a coworker in need or celebrating their achievements.
Encouraging teamwork and openness to diverse perspectives, breaking down barriers of culture, ideology, or age.
Justice and Charity in Professional Life
Charity and justice are essential virtues in transforming work into a force for good. Justice ensures that every person receives their due, while charity extends beyond duty to offer generosity, compassion, and solidarity. Together, these virtues create an environment where people collaborate effectively, overcome individualism, and promote the common good.
For example, entrepreneurs can prioritize neglected social causes, reject unethical practices, and advocate for policies that uphold human dignity. Small acts, such as mentoring young colleagues or improving workplace conditions, have ripple effects that extend beyond the immediate environment.
St. Josemaría’s vision of work is grounded in hope. He encourages us to see our professional work as part of God’s redemptive plan, even amidst challenges. Whether facing personal setbacks or societal crises, the Christian approach to work invites us to trust in God’s providence and rely on His grace.
As Pope Benedict XVI wrote in Caritas in Veritate, true progress requires prayer, trust in God, and love in action. By embracing this vision, we transform not only our work but also our hearts, making life on earth more reflective of God’s divine love.
In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of mentorship has never been more crucial. For Catholic entrepreneurs and leaders, mentorship transcends professional development—it becomes an act of discipleship. By integrating faith with business, we can guide the next generation of leaders to not only achieve professional success but also to live out their vocation. This article explores how mentorship and discipleship intertwine to shape faithful leaders equipped to transform the world.
Mentorship as a Calling
Mentorship in a professional context involves sharing knowledge, skills, and experiences to foster another's growth. From a faith perspective, it mirrors the Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). As Catholic leaders, we are called to mentor others, not just in business acumen but also in living out our values in the marketplace.
Discipleship in the Modern World
Discipleship extends beyond personal spiritual development; it involves guiding others to integrate faith into every aspect of life, including their careers. Mentors can inspire mentees to pursue excellence and offer their work and everything they do to God.
Knowledge Transfer: Experienced leaders possess invaluable insights that can help emerging entrepreneurs navigate challenges.
Decision-Making: Mentorship provides a platform to discuss ethical dilemmas and apply principles from Catholic teaching.
Formation: Guiding mentees in developing virtues such as integrity, humility, and compassion strengthens their leadership capabilities.
Jesus exemplified servant leadership by prioritizing others' needs: "For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve" (Mark 10:45). Mentors can emulate this by:
Active Listening: Understanding mentees' aspirations and concerns.
Empowering Others: Encouraging mentees to take initiative and develop their gifts.
1. Establish Clear Objectives
Spiritual and Professional Goals: Align mentorship plans with both business and career aspirations and spiritual growth.
Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings to discuss progress and adjust goals as needed.
2. Share Personal Experiences
Successes and Failures: Transparency about your journey can provide valuable lessons.
Faith Journeys: Discuss how your faith has shaped your decisions and leadership style.
3. Integrate Faith into Discussions
Prayer and Discernment: Encourage seeking God's guidance in decision-making processes.
4. Aligning Expectations
Set Mutual Agreements: Clarify roles, responsibilities, and expectations at the outset.
Feedback Loop: Maintain open communication to ensure the mentorship remains productive.
Conclusion
Mentorship and discipleship are powerful ways for shaping leaders who will carry forward the mission of integrating faith and business. By investing in the next generation, we answer the call to be stewards of our gifts and to "go and bear fruit that will remain" (John 15:16).
At SENT, we are committed to creating a community where mentorship and discipleship thrive. By becoming a part of our network, you can:
Connect with Like-Minded Leaders: Build relationships with entrepreneurs who share your commitment to faith and excellence.
Access Resources: Utilize our tools and programs designed to support your spiritual and professional journey.
Mentor the Next Generation: Share your experiences to guide others on their path to becoming faithful leaders.
Catechism of the Catholic Church, particularly sections on social teaching and the role of laity in the Church.
Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), on the call to missionary discipleship.
John C. Maxwell, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, for insights on leadership principles.
Sherry Weddell, Forming Intentional Disciples, on personal discipleship and mentorship.
In today's fast-paced and competitive business environment, professionals are constantly seeking ways to achieve success and fulfillment. While skill, strategy, and hard work are essential, there's a deeper driving force that can significantly impact one's professional journey: purpose rooted in faith.
Catholic Social Teaching: Emphasizes the dignity of the human person and the importance of contributing to the common good.
"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men" (Colossians 3:23).
1. Reflect on Your Calling
Discernment: Take time for prayer and reflection to understand how your professional path aligns with your vocation.
Identify Strengths: Recognize the gifts you've been given and consider how to use them in service to others.
2. Set Purpose-Driven Goals
Goal Alignment: Ensure your professional goals reflect your values and contribute to a greater good.
Mission Statements: Create personal and organizational mission statements that encapsulate your purpose.
3. Decision-Making
Moral Principles: Apply Catholic teachings and moral principles when faced with ethical dilemmas.
Integrity in Actions: Let honesty and integrity guide all business practices.
4. Cultivate a Values-Centered Workplace
Encourage Open Dialogue: Create space for conversations about faith and purpose in the workplace.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate your values through actions, inspiring others to explore their own sense of purpose.
Reflection Questions
What is your deeper purpose beyond professional success?
How can you integrate your faith more fully into your daily work?
In what ways can you inspire others through purpose-driven leadership?
At SENT, we believe in the power of integrating faith with business. As a community of Catholic entrepreneurs and leaders, we support one another in pursuing purpose-driven success.
Why Join SENT?
Connect with Like-Minded Professionals: Build relationships with others who share your values.
Access Resources and Mentorship: Utilize tools, workshops, and mentorship programs designed to enhance both your spiritual and professional growth.
Participate in Exclusive Events: Engage in events that inspire and equip you to lead with purpose.
St. Josemaría Escrivá’s teachings on professional work redefine leadership, highlighting the need for service and the offering of daily tasks into opportunities to glorify God and serve others. This approach challenges us to view leadership not as a pursuit of prestige or power but as a path of relational engagement, grounded in humility and love.
St. Josemaría articulated a vision of leadership rooted in service, captured in his succinct directive: “In order to be useful, serve.” True leadership begins with the desire to improve one’s immediate environment and extends outward to create a better world. The foundation of this approach lies in acquiring professional excellence, not for personal gain but to serve God and others more effectively.
By cultivating a mindset of service, entrepreneurs can use their skills and knowledge to uplift those around them. This requires a commitment to continuous improvement and an openness to collaboration, mentorship, and shared learning.
Work is inherently relational, reflecting our nature as beings created in the image of a Triune God. Whether directly interacting with others or contributing behind the scenes, every professional effort impacts individuals and communities. From the carpenter crafting a table to the scientist in a lab, all work holds the potential to build relationships, foster trust, and promote human dignity.
Jesus’ own example highlights this truth. His years in St. Joseph’s workshop were not merely about producing objects but about engaging with the needs of others, glorifying the Father, and redeeming humanity. This relational perspective transforms work into a means of expressing love and creating “relational goods” that benefit society.
In St. Josemaría’s teachings, professional prestige is not about seeking recognition but about enabling service. Excellence in one’s field allows individuals to act as examples for others, sharing knowledge, mentoring colleagues, and addressing broader societal challenges. This perspective shifts the focus from personal ambition to collective growth and the common good.
Leadership by serving also involves humility in the face of setbacks. Failures and challenges become opportunities for growth, learning, and renewed trust in God. They remind us that true greatness lies not in external achievements but in perseverance, faith, and trust in God’s providential plan.
To lead through service, one must develop both professional competence and human virtues. Qualities such as resilience, flexibility, empathy, and creativity are essential for navigating the complexities of modern work environments. These virtues are not abstract ideals but practical skills honed through daily interactions and tasks.
St. Josemaría emphasized the importance of working attentively and responsibly, ensuring that our efforts reflect care and respect for others. By embodying these virtues, entrepreneurs can create spaces where everyone feels valued and can contribute their best.
Leadership as service extends beyond individual relationships to influence broader societal structures. Each act of love contributes to shaping a world more aligned with God’s vision.
As Pope Francis reminds us, work is not just a means of earning a living but a way to express our creativity and dignity. It is also a powerful tool for building community and addressing the pressing challenges of our time.
St. Josemaría’s vision invites us to reimagine leadership as a journey of service and self-giving. It challenges us to ask: How can I use my work to serve others? What virtues do I need to cultivate to lead effectively? How can my professional efforts contribute to the common good?
By embracing this vision, we become leaders who transform not only our workplaces but also ourselves and society. Through our work, we glorify God, uplift others, and discover the true meaning of leadership: to serve with love and humility, following the example of Christ who came not to be served but to serve.
Chris Shewan
A beautiful summary of some of Saint Josemaría's teachings on the sanctity of work, becoming a saint through one's work and sanctifying others at work.
The importance of intentionally acquiring and developing moral character virtues is clear in a world that no longer pays heed to Truth, Goodness and Beauty. It must not be left to being an add on to our daily tasks for that is unlikely to produce saints. There must be a clear personal mission, vision objectives and strategies, one of which is coaching/mentoring according to a system and a framework that has been tried and tested.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/leadership-as-service-transforming-work-into-a-path-to-holiness
In an increasingly interconnected world, it is paradoxical that many people feel more isolated than ever. The rise of remote work, digital communication, and global mobility has, in some cases, diminished the traditional sense of community that once anchored societies. This shift carries significant implications for our health and well-being. Research is clear that isolation is not just a social concern but a significant health risk, while strong community ties are essential for longevity, happiness, and success in both personal and professional realms.
Physical Health Impacts
Isolation poses significant risks to physical health, a reality that aligns with the Catholic view of the human person as a unity of body and soul.
Cardiovascular Problems: Studies have shown that loneliness increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. This physical manifestation of isolation reflects how separation from others can harm the body, which St. Paul refers to as the "temple of the Holy Spirit" (1 Corinthians 6:19).
Weakened Immune System: Chronic loneliness can impair immune function. In the Book of Sirach, we are reminded, "A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure" (Sirach 6:14). The absence of such friendships can leave one vulnerable, both spiritually and physically.
Mental Health Consequences
Isolation profoundly affects mental health, an area where Catholic teaching offers deep insights.
Depression and Anxiety: Loneliness is a strong predictor of mental health disorders. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the importance of community in overcoming isolation: "The human person needs to live in society. Society is not for him an extraneous addition but a requirement of his nature" (CCC 1879).
Cognitive Decline: Socially isolated individuals face a higher risk of cognitive decline. Pope Francis has warned against the "globalization of indifference," where isolation leads to a dulling of conscience and intellect.
The Body of Christ
St. Paul describes the Church as the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27), emphasizing that each person has a unique role and that all are necessary for the health of the whole.
Interdependence: "If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together" (1 Corinthians 12:26).
Unity and Diversity: The diversity of gifts and roles enriches the community, much like different parts of the body contribute to overall health.
The Dignity of Work and Solidarity
Catholic social teaching upholds the dignity of work and the importance of solidarity.
Pope John Paul II: In his encyclical Laborem Exercens, he emphasized that work is a means of participating in God’s creation and that relationships formed at work are vital.
Solidarity: This principle calls for a firm commitment to the common good, recognizing that we are all responsible for each other (CCC 1939).
Building a Culture of Encounter
Pope Francis encourages a "culture of encounter," where businesses become places of genuine connection.
Humanizing the Workplace: Instead of treating workers as mere cogs in a machine, businesses should strive to create environments where relationships can flourish.
Leadership: Leaders are called to care for their employees, reflecting the Good Shepherd who knows and loves his sheep (John 10:14).
For Individuals
Join a Community: Engaging in parish activities, Mass, and sacraments which strengthens community ties. Consider joining organizations like SENT. SENT provides resources and a community to help Catholic leaders integrate faith into their leadership practices.
Grow in Virtue: Practicing virtues like charity and patience improves relationships (Galatians 5:22-23). Make an intentional effort to grow in virtue and relationships flourish.
Fostering a Family Spirit: Inspired by St. John Bosco's approach, creating a familial atmosphere in the workplace promotes unity and care.
Isolation contradicts the very nature of the human person. We are created for communion—with God and with each other. The health risks associated with isolation serve as a reminder of this fundamental truth. By embracing community, we not only improve our physical and mental well-being but also fulfill our divine purpose. In doing so, we build a culture that reflects the Kingdom of God, where everyone can thrive in unity and love.
St. Josemaría Escrivá’s message about sanctifying ordinary work offers a deeply insightful perspective: the daily tasks we perform, no matter how routine, are opportunities to grow in holiness and transform society. This teaching is a call to see work not just as a duty but as a mission, a chance to unite our professional efforts with God's will.
Sanctify Your Work
Holiness begins with intention. By performing tasks with love for God and striving for human and professional excellence, we elevate our work. This means dedicating our efforts to God, ensuring even the smallest actions are done with care, integrity, and love.
Sanctify Yourself in Work
Through consistent effort to align our work with divine purpose, we open ourselves to the grace of the Holy Spirit. This personal sanctification involves cultivating virtues like diligence, patience, and humility. Prayer, sacraments, and ongoing spiritual formation are critical to strengthening our roots in Christ.
Sanctify Others Through Work
Our work becomes a tool for apostolate when we inspire, uplift, and serve those around us. This might involve offering a kind word, demonstrating professional excellence, or simply embodying Christ’s love in our interactions. As St. Josemaría noted, our workplaces are fertile ground for sowing the seeds of faith.
Work sanctified by charity becomes a beacon that draws others closer to God. This isn’t limited to grand gestures; small, everyday acts of kindness, generosity, and professionalism radiate the warmth of Christ's love. St. Josemaría emphasized the importance of “professional prestige” – not merely technical skill, but virtues informed by love for others – as a means to lead souls to God.
Sanctifying work often requires perseverance, especially during difficulties. Pruning, whether through setbacks, failures, or external pressures, is part of God’s plan to refine us. Like a gardener trimming a vine, God removes what is superfluous, allowing us to bear richer fruit. Such trials, though painful, are opportunities to deepen trust in God and renew our commitment to Him.
Holiness in work has societal implications. By embodying Christian values in professional environments, we contribute to shaping a culture grounded in truth and virtue. This ripple effect can transform workplaces and communities, ensuring that human dignity and ethical principles are upheld.
St. Josemaría challenges us to approach work with purpose and passion. He reminds us that our professional lives are not separate from our spiritual ones; they are deeply intertwined. Each moment at the desk, factory floor, or classroom is an opportunity to love God, serve others, and become saints.
As he so aptly put it: “Don’t let your life be barren. Be useful. Make yourself felt. Shine forth with the torch of your faith and your love.” Through our daily work, we can become burning embers, spreading the fire of Christ’s love wherever we go.
By embracing this spirit, we not only sanctify our own lives but also bring light to those around us, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
In today's fast-paced business world, the integration of faith and work often takes a back seat. Yet, the link between social connectivity and well-being is deeply rooted in both scientific research and timeless wisdom. At SENT, we believe that understanding this relationship is crucial for entrepreneurs and leaders who aim to thrive not just professionally but also spiritually.
Humans are inherently social beings, created for communion with others. This intrinsic need for connection is not only a cornerstone of psychological theories but also a fundamental aspect of Catholic social teaching. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, "The human person needs to live in society. Society is not for him an extraneous addition but a requirement of his nature" (CCC 1879).
Emotions as Interpersonal Currency
Research shows that emotions can spread through social networks much like ripples in a pond. A study by Dr. Nicholas Christakis and Dr. James Fowler found that happiness extends up to three degrees of separation in social networks. This means your joy can influence not just your friends but also their friends' friends.
Key Findings:
An individual's happiness increases the likelihood of a friend becoming happy by 15%.
The effect is more potent among individuals who are geographically close, highlighting the need for face-to-face interactions.
Mirror Neurons and Empathy
Our brains are equipped with mirror neurons, which allow us to experience others' emotions as if they were our own. This neurological foundation aligns with the need to have empathy and compassion taught by Jesus when He said, "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12).
In the entrepreneurial journey, challenges are inevitable. Viewing these obstacles through the lens of faith transforms them into opportunities for growth. As St. Paul encourages, "We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance" (Romans 5:3).
Acknowledging the intrinsic dignity of every individual is essential. The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church emphasizes that "the social order and its development must invariably work to the benefit of the human person" (CSDC 132).
Work Environments:
Promote policies that honor work-life balance.
Encourage diversity and inclusion, reflecting the universal nature of the Church.
When leaders prioritize social connectivity and well-being, the positive effects permeate the entire organization.
Enhanced Employee Satisfaction: A supportive environment reduces stress and increases job satisfaction.
Improved Performance: Teams that feel connected are more collaborative and innovative.
Building a Faith-Driven Entrepreneurial Community
At SENT, we strive to create a sense of belonging among Catholic entrepreneurs. By uniting faith and business, we support one another in both spiritual and professional growth.
In a world increasingly dominated by screens, maintaining meaningful relationships can feel challenging. The digital age offers unprecedented opportunities to connect, but it also creates barriers to true intimacy and understanding. For Catholic leaders, deep, faith-centered connections in this environment is not only possible but vital.
Digital communication tools like Zoom, Slack, and social media have transformed the way we interact. While these tools provide convenience and accessibility, they can sometimes lead to superficial interactions, misunderstandings, and isolation.
The Impact of Digital Disconnection:
Loneliness Epidemic: Studies from organizations like the American Psychological Association show that heavy reliance on digital communication correlates with increased feelings of loneliness.
Reduced Empathy: Research indicates that screen-mediated conversations often lack the emotional nuance present in face-to-face interactions.
The challenge for leaders is clear: How can we leverage digital tools while cultivating authentic, meaningful relationships?
For Catholic leaders, faith offers a framework to approach digital communication with intentionality and purpose. By focusing on the intrinsic dignity of every person, leaders can transform even virtual interactions into opportunities for connection and growth.
1. Practice Active Listening
Even in virtual settings, active listening fosters trust and understanding.
How: Minimize distractions, maintain eye contact (via the camera), and reflect back what the other person has shared.
Why it Works: Neuroscience reveals that active listening activates mirror neurons, enhancing empathy and connection.
2. Schedule Intentional One-on-Ones
Group calls are efficient but often lack personal touch.
How: Schedule regular one-on-one meetings with team members or colleagues. Use this time to check in on their personal and professional well-being.
Begin or end meetings with a short prayer.
3. Balance Digital and Physical Interactions
Whenever possible, complement virtual communication with in-person meetings or retreats.
How: Organize quarterly in-person gatherings or retreats to strengthen bonds.
Why it Works: Studies indicate that face-to-face interactions release oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” which deepens relationships.
4. Lead with Vulnerability
Authenticity builds trust.
How: Share personal stories, challenges, or moments of faith that have shaped your journey.
Vulnerability reflects Christ’s humility and builds mutual understanding.
Audit Your Communication Channels: Evaluate whether your digital tools foster or hinder connection and adjust as needed.
Introduce Digital Connection Norms: Encourage practices like cameras-on policies or no-interruption rules during calls to improve engagement.
Prioritize Team Well-Being: Regularly check in on how digital communication impacts your team’s morale and mental health.
SENT provides resources and a community to help Catholic leaders integrate faith into leadership practices, including cultivating meaningful connections in today’s digital landscape. Join us to learn more.
“Another assessment? What can this one tell me that I haven’t already heard?”
Humans are complex beings, so no one assessment gives a complete picture, but instead, gives an insight into how and why people function the way they do. The 6 Types of Working Genius is unique because it gives insight into what type of work will bring joy and energy versus what type of work will bring frustration or lead to burnout. According to its creator, Patrick Lencioni and his team at The Table Group, it’s 80% of a productivity tool and 20% personality assessment.
The model is set up by the six stages that occur in every type of work. Work can mean anything from developing and launching a new product to planning a family vacation. It all goes through these same six steps, but sometimes it goes more smoothly than others. The model explains why.
The six steps of work are:
Wonder – Asking a question like, “Why do we do it this way?”
Invention – Creating the solution.
Discernment – Determining the correct solution.
Galvanizing – Getting everyone excited and moving on the solution.
Enablement – Getting involved in the project, wanting to help the person.
Tenacity – Making sure all tasks and details are complete.
When work flows through these six steps in order, then it flows smoothly and great results are achieved, but when a step is missed, then ideas fall flat, no one buys-in, or details are missed.
Lencioni identifies each of the steps as Geniuses, or our natural God-given gifts. Each person has two Geniuses, two Frustrations, and two Competencies. Each genius is critical to success.
Genius tasks are those where the individual will gain joy and energy from doing that type of work. It may not even feel like work to that person because it comes so easily and naturally. This is where productivity soars, creativity happens, and where God’s work is being done.
Frustration tasks will quickly frustrate and drain an individual of energy, or they may avoid those tasks completely.
Competency tasks won’t give joy, energy OR frustration, but there is a risk of burnout if the too much time is spent doing them.
“Every job is a six letter job,” meaning that time will inevitably be spent utilizing frustrations and competencies, but the focus should be to transition as much work as possible to genius work.
When evaluating projects, looking at how the work flowed through the team can give invaluable insight as to why goals were or were not met. What is typically observed is that where projects go smoothly, geniuses are present; when projects stall or become difficult, geniuses are lacking. Team members working in these lacking areas will be disgruntled, disengaged, or often struggle to meet expectations. A simple shift of responsibilities, or merely acknowledging the difficulty, can improve productivity nearly instantly. Aligning the work with the geniuses of your team members improves the productivity of the team and the fulfillment of the worker.
The ease of productivity improvements with the Working Genius is amazing, but for leaders and teams who embrace the model, there is so much more. Many typical leadership struggles can be overcome by leaders who understand their own geniuses as well as those of their teams.
Self-Awareness
The single most important trait that all leaders need is to be self-aware. Becoming completely self-aware takes many years of experience, prayer, and learning, but the simple, often overlooked, knowledge of what type of work God intended you to do, can be life-changing. Understanding that the Working Geniuses are natural God-given gifts can grant leaders the freedom to say, “I dislike doing this and that’s ok.” This awareness will not just alleviate guilt and wasted time for leaders, but it also helps leaders show up better for their teams, delegate appropriately, and get better results.
Hiring
Hiring is one of the most subjective yet important roles of a leader. Understanding the geniuses and frustrations of the team before starting the hiring process can improve its effectiveness. It’s helpful to evaluate the geniuses and frustrations of the current team first. It’s likely that one or both of the following will be identified:
Missing or Underrepresented Geniuses – leading to work moving slower than ideal, missing a key part of the process, or disengaging a portion of the workforce.
Overrepresented Geniuses – the group may collectively skip processes or lack productive conflict, leading to less innovative ideas and solutions.
When these scenarios are identified in advance, changes can be made to the work distribution of the current team and the job description can be modified giving a better representation of what the team needs, increasing productivity and job satisfaction for the entire team.
Development
Leaders must develop their team members. This includes assigning the appropriate tasks that challenge them, giving feedback and coaching, and enrolling in training. Typical development plans will look at where the individual isn’t performing well and enroll him or her into a program, assign a project where he or she can further develop the skill, and spend time in one-on-one sessions discussing the concepts. This can lead to frustration, demotivation, and burnout if the development “need” is a frustration.
According to Don Clifton in his book Soar with Your Strengths, “[Weaknesses] cannot be transformed into strengths. The goal, therefore, is to manage weaknesses so the strengths can be freed to develop and become so powerful they make the weaknesses irrelevant.” Development plans should deal with weaknesses only in so far as to make sure they’re not getting in the way. Instead, focus on how team members can employ strengths and geniuses to overcome a weakness.
Enrollment in training programs should be focused on enriching a strength or developing a new skill where the team members can more readily engage their geniuses. This will give 10x the ROI as investing in weakness improvement.
Feedback
One of the surprising challenges that the Working Genius can help overcome is giving constructive feedback. This is a crucial element of any relationship and is also one of the most requested training programs.
Most feedback conversations go awry because someone is defensive. The first line of defense against defensiveness is empathy. This is because the feedback needs to come across as caring and helpful, not accusatory. Creating empathy before the conversation is key for success.
A helpful way to do this, according to Dr. Becky Kennedy, is to imagine the “Most Generous Interpretation” of what may have happened. In Working Genius language: “This is probably in his frustrations.” For example, the team member whose assignments are continually late has Tenacity in their frustrations, so they are easily distracted as the finish line approaches. Or, the team who struggles to find a creative solution is lacking Invention on their team.
This is not an excuse for poor performance, but it gives an empathetic view from which to start the conversation versus the alternative of “They must be lazy and not care!”
Additionally, it allows for better problem-solving and solution creation. The most important part of any constructive feedback conversation is the action to improve. When the type of work that may frustrate or energize them is considered, solutions can be focused on leaning into geniuses or creating support structures when working in frustrations.
Teams are an integral part of work and life, and the success of those teams will determine the success in both areas. The 6 Types of Working Genius is a powerful tool that can better align leaders and teams with the work that God intended them to do while improving productivity. Embracing the tool and integrating the language and practices into the culture will gain the greatest benefits.
For more information on the 6 Types of Working Genius and other leadership programs, click here.
Kristina Schmitt is the founder of Kristina Schmitt Development, where she develops and coaches leaders and their teams to get even better results from their businesses and their lives. With 15 years of experience in the automotive manufacturing industry, Kristina integrates leadership models, The 6 Types of Working Genius, lean manufacturing principles, and Catholic values to help leaders transform workplace cultures.
Kristina holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, is a certified 6 Types of Working Genius Facilitator, and a Certified Humaning Made Easier Facilitator.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/working-genius-unlocked
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and revolutionizing how businesses operate. From automating repetitive tasks to analyzing vast amounts of data, AI is improving efficiency, productivity, and innovation across various sectors. However, with this rapid technological advancement comes a critical question: How do we ensure that AI respects and upholds human dignity? Catholic Social Teaching, which emphasizes the inherent worth of every individual, offers a moral framework for navigating the ethical challenges of AI. This article explores how AI can be developed and implemented in ways that prioritize human dignity and ensure that automation serves humanity rather than undermining it.
The Impact of Automation on Human Dignity
As AI systems take on more tasks traditionally performed by humans, there is a growing concern that automation could depersonalize interactions and decisions. For example, AI algorithms used in hiring processes, healthcare, and law enforcement have the potential to reduce people to data points, stripping away the human element. Every person is more than just a cog in the machine—each individual has intrinsic value and should be treated with dignity and respect. Ethical AI development must ensure that people are not dehumanized by these technologies.
One of the most significant concerns surrounding AI and automation is the potential for job displacement. As machines take over tasks once performed by humans, many workers, especially those in low-skill positions, could be left without employment. Catholic Social Teaching calls for economic justice, which means ensuring that technological progress does not leave vulnerable workers behind. Ethical AI deployment should include strategies for retraining displaced workers, creating new opportunities, and providing support to those affected by automation.
Designing AI with Ethical Guidelines
AI systems should be designed with ethical considerations at their core. This means ensuring that AI algorithms do not perpetuate bias, discrimination, or inequality.
One of the challenges with AI is the "black box" nature of many algorithms—people affected by AI-driven decisions often have no insight into how those decisions were made. Ethical AI demands transparency and accountability, ensuring that AI systems are explainable and understandable. Companies using AI should be upfront about how these systems work and ensure that those impacted by AI-driven decisions have recourse if they feel mistreated or misrepresented.
Maintaining Human Oversight
In Catholic Social Teaching, the principle of subsidiarity emphasizes that decisions should be made at the most appropriate level, with individuals maintaining control over decisions that directly impact their lives. AI systems, while powerful, should not replace human judgment, especially in morally significant areas such as healthcare, criminal justice, and education. Human oversight is crucial to ensure that AI serves humanity rather than replacing essential human roles in decision-making.
As AI becomes more advanced, there is a temptation to allow these systems to operate with increasing autonomy. However, we need careful discernment when granting machines autonomy in areas that involve ethical considerations, such as law enforcement or healthcare. Decisions that affect people’s lives, livelihoods, or well-being should always involve human judgment. AI should assist, not replace, human decision-makers.
AI and the Future of Work
While automation may displace certain jobs, it also has the potential to create new opportunities. Catholic leaders and policymakers must work to ensure that AI-driven innovation leads to inclusive growth. This includes investing in education and retraining programs that equip workers with the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven economy. By prioritizing the common good, businesses can ensure that technological advancements benefit all, rather than deepening inequalities.
Work is a key part of human dignity, offering individuals a sense of purpose and contribution to society. As AI takes over certain tasks, Catholic social teaching reminds us that work should remain meaningful and fulfilling. Businesses should strive to use AI to free workers from mundane, repetitive tasks, allowing them to engage in more creative, complex, and relational work that enhances their personal development and contributes to the common good.
The Role of Catholic Leadership in Shaping Ethical AI
Catholic leaders in business, technology, and policy have an important role to play in shaping the future of AI. By advocating for responsible AI development, grounded in ethical principles, Catholic leaders can influence how AI is used in society. This includes pushing for regulations and frameworks that prioritize human dignity, fairness, and the common good in AI applications.
Businesses led by Catholic values should strive to create a culture of ethical innovation. This means encouraging dialogue about the moral implications of AI, collaboration between technologists, ethicists, and theologians, and ensuring that every step of AI development reflects a commitment to human dignity. By doing so, Catholic leaders can help guide the conversation around AI ethics and set an example for others to follow.
Conclusion
As AI continues to shape the future of work, business, and society, Catholic values offer a crucial moral framework for ensuring that human dignity remains at the forefront of innovation. By designing AI systems that respect human rights, maintaining human oversight, and prioritizing the common good, Catholic leaders and technologists can ensure that automation serves humanity rather than undermines it. In an era of rapid technological advancement, the challenge for Catholic business leaders is to balance the potential of AI with the responsibility to protect human dignity and promote justice.
In 2019, I made the hardest decision of my life - to discern out of the monastery. I felt drawn to start something for Catholic entrepreneurs. So, I moved into my aunt's 1970s-styled basement in Virginia. At the time, I had no idea what this concept would become.
I was inspired by saint founders who renewed faith in their time to transform the world around them. Because of them, I believed that faith-forward entrepreneurship could be a vehicle for transformation of hearts, lives, and society.
I had a dream to empower a generation of saintly builders seeking to build companies and organizations guided by their faith and a hunger of excellence. But, to be honest, I had no idea how to do that.
Moreover, since I’d been in the monastery for almost 8 years, I found that business, media, technology and more had changed radically in that time. I had a lot to learn (and re-learn). I had to build new relationships in a space totally foreign to me. And since I’d taken a vow of poverty prior to that, I had no financial resources to hire a team or even pay contractors (or even my own rent).
But I somehow knew in my heart that it’s where I was being led. And I could do nothing else than follow that pull.
Five years, many missteps and some successes later, we’ve been blessed to serve over 1,000 founders and CEOs through SENT. The SENT Summit which attracted almost 400 founders, CEOs, and investors this last year has become a flourishing gathering place for Catholic entrepreneurial leaders.
We spun out the first pitch competition for startups that advance Catholic values and the first angel network (SENT Angels) to invest in these startups. And we hope to collaborate even more with other partners and allies to establish an ecosystem where Catholic entrepreneurship can thrive.
During this time, I’ve learned a lot about myself. I thrive in seeing a vision and then creating. I’m at my best when I can create something new propelled with faith and serves a real human or spiritual need. Often I feel powerfully pulled or drawn to these projects rather than trying to force them.
For this reason, I’ve been hopeful to identify a leader who would be a better fit to lead SENT’s growth to its next stage.
For the past several years, I’ve been encouraging Nick Madden to become more involved in SENT leadership. Nick joined one of the first SENT Fellowship cohorts in the early days of COVID when his in-person escape room business was threatened to shut down. SENT became a nourishing lifeline to him during this time and he poured into it as much as he received, helping many other founders grow. He continued his transformation of building daily spiritual routines, designing his business with values, and becoming more involved in SENT.
As CEO of Red Door Escape Room, Nick has led the company from one store to 19 stores nationally and built a team of over 400 employees who have served over 1 million customers. He knows how to build great teams and grow companies aligned with his faith. Moreover, Nick has held multiple leadership roles in SENT the past two years and has deep knowledge of our mission and community.
For this reason, I couldn’t imagine a better leader to take SENT to the next level. I’m excited to announce that Nick will be taking over from me as CEO of SENT this January.
I’ll continue to remain actively involved in SENT’s mission on the Board of Directors and with a particular focus on organizational strategy, advocacy, and the SENT Summit.
I’m also excited to invest more of my energy into other areas of the Catholic entrepreneurship ecosystem, such as the investor community. Also, I hope to continue sharing about the wisdom of the Christian monastic tradition with a wider audience through the media platform, Monk Mindset.
Lastly, I’m so grateful for all the support and encouragement I’ve received in this journey, especially the SENT members and community leaders who have committed to this mission, our Board, benefactors, teammates – former and current, and my family.
Let’s continue to build this ecosystem together! SENT is an incredible organization and mission – I encourage you to find a way to be involved.
Please know my continued prayers and support for all connected to this mission and don’t hesitate to reach out if I may be of service to you.
I remain grateful for the past, excited for the present moment, and hopeful for the future,
John
The journey of professional life is filled with stages, crossroads, and challenges. As Catholic leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives, we navigate these decisions not just with strategy, but with faith. Our ultimate goal is not merely success by worldly standards, but a supernatural one: to align our work with God’s purpose.
A Journey with Christ
Every professional path is a pilgrimage of sorts, marked by growth, victories, and setbacks. Even Christ’s earthly life was a journey—from His hidden years in Nazareth to His public ministry and ultimate sacrifice in Jerusalem. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we, too, are accompanied by Jesus in our work. Recognizing His presence transforms how we approach our careers, turning even mundane tasks into opportunities for sanctification.
When faced with uncertainty—whether about a career move, a business decision, or balancing personal and professional commitments—we echo the words of Thomas: “Lord, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus responds: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” (Jn 14:5-6)
Navigating Professional Crossroads
As Catholic professionals, we often find ourselves at pivotal moments where faith and career intersect. Should I relocate for a job opportunity, or would it disrupt my family life? Should I expand my business, or is it driven by ambition rather than mission? How can I balance my work and my calling to serve others?
The answers to these questions require discernment, prayer, and practical wisdom. Some guiding principles can help:
People over profits: Business decisions should prioritize human dignity and relationships over financial gain.
Mission over ambition: Career growth is good, but only when aligned with our broader purpose.
Faith over fear: Trusting in God’s plan allows us to make bold decisions without anxiety over control.
Seeking counsel from mentors, spiritual directors, or fellow Catholic leaders can provide clarity. Above all, turning to Christ in prayer helps us discern the right path. As Pope Francis reminds us, “In that silence, we can discern, in the light of the Spirit, the paths of holiness to which the Lord is calling us.” (Gaudete et Exsultate, 150)
Walking Together: Community and Support
No professional journey is meant to be walked alone. Our families, colleagues, and faith communities shape and support us. At SENT, this is particularly true. We are called to accompany each other in our entrepreneurial and executive roles, ensuring that our success does not come at the cost of personal relationships or faith.
At times, advancing in our careers may require sacrifice or recalibration. Perhaps stepping back from a high-profile opportunity to be present with family. Perhaps shifting professional priorities to answer an apostolic call. These decisions may seem countercultural, but they are deeply aligned with a supernatural perspective.
We must resist the temptation to measure our worth solely by worldly benchmarks. As Catholic leaders, our ambition should be to “place Christ at the summit of all human activities.” (St. Josemaría Escrivá) This perspective allows us to find meaning beyond titles, wealth, or recognition, rooting our work in service and mission.
Embracing Change: God’s Surprising Paths
Career trajectories rarely follow a straight line. Some professionals pivot industries, others take time off for family or apostolic work, and some are unexpectedly led to new ventures that were never in their original plan. This is not failure—it is providence at work.
The apostles themselves were fishermen before Christ called them to be “fishers of men.” (Mk 1:17) Saint Josemaría Escrivá noted that professional vocations often evolve, requiring openness to new paths. What defines our work is not the specific job title but the way we bring Christ into it.
This perspective frees us from anxiety over career transitions. Whether growing a company, stepping into leadership, or making a bold shift, we can trust that our professional journey—when surrendered to God—is always leading us toward something greater.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/finding-the-right-path-integrating-faith-and-professional-life
Transforming Society Through Work
As Catholic professionals, our work is not just a means of survival or success—it is a path to holiness. St. Josemaría Escrivá emphasized that our mission is to sanctify our work and, through it, help transform society in accordance with God’s will. We are not passive observers but active participants in building a world that reflects Christian values.
Work as a Path to Holiness
Work is not separate from our faith; it is a way to encounter Christ. When done with love, integrity, and a spirit of service, it becomes a powerful means of evangelization. As St. Josemaría taught, if we place Christ at the center of all human activities and fulfill our duties with love, we help bring His kingdom into reality.
By offering our daily tasks to God, no matter how big or small, we participate in His redemptive work. Whether leading a business, teaching, practicing medicine, or managing a home, every profession has the potential to glorify God and uplift those around us.
Christianizing Society Through Influence
Sanctifying work is not just about personal holiness; it is also about shaping the culture. A Catholic business leader should promote ethical practices. A journalist should stand for truth. A policymaker should advocate for human dignity. As professionals, we have the opportunity to influence institutions, laws, and communities in ways that align with Christian principles.
This does not mean imposing faith on others but witnessing to the truth through our actions and decisions. Society flourishes when values like justice, integrity, and respect for life are upheld—not just because they are Christian, but because they are inherently good.
Practical Ways to Live This Mission
Offer Your Work to God Daily – Begin each day with a prayer, dedicating your work to Christ.
Seek Excellence and Integrity – Work diligently, treating colleagues, employees, and clients with honesty and respect.
Lead by Example – Influence your workplace culture by modeling ethical behavior and servant leadership.
Support Just Structures – Promote policies and practices that respect human dignity, both within your organization and in broader society.
Evangelize Through Relationships – Share your faith naturally through conversations and actions, inspiring others by your example.
The Heart of the Mission
Sanctifying work and influencing society for Christ is not an abstract ideal but a concrete call to action. The world needs Catholic professionals who are committed to excellence, justice, and love. By bringing Christ into our daily work, we not only grow in holiness ourselves but help transform the world around us. Let us answer this call with faith, courage, and conviction, trusting that through our work, we are building His Kingdom on earth.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/sanctifying-work-bringing-christ-into-society
St. Joseph: A Model for Work and Holiness
St. Joseph, a humble worker and protector of the Holy Family, teaches us how to integrate faith into our daily labor. As Catholic professionals, we can look to him as a model of diligence, trust in God, and service to others. His life reminds us that work is not merely a duty but a path to holiness when done with love and purpose.
The Dignity of Work
St. Joseph’s work was not self-centered but focused on service—to his family, his community, and ultimately to God. He labored as a craftsman, fulfilling his daily responsibilities with integrity and devotion. His example shows us that every job, no matter how simple, has divine significance when offered to God.
As St. Josemaría Escrivá taught, "Work is born of love; it is a manifestation of love and is directed toward love." When we work with this mindset, we sanctify our profession, no matter our field, and contribute to the transformation of society.
Integrating Faith into Work
St. Joseph’s life was marked by faith, obedience, and trust. He embraced God’s will even when it was difficult or unclear, such as when he fled to Egypt to protect Jesus. This trust teaches us that our work, too, should be guided by prayer and openness to God's plan.
Here are practical ways to follow St. Joseph’s example in our professional lives:
Work with Purpose – Approach your profession with diligence, honesty, and a spirit of service.
Offer Your Work to God – Begin each task with a prayer, uniting it to God’s plan.
Support Others Through Your Work – Whether leading, collaborating, or mentoring, use your skills to serve others.
Find God in the Ordinary – Recognize that holiness is found in daily duties, not just extraordinary moments.
Trust in God’s Guidance – Seek His wisdom when facing professional challenges or decisions.
Transforming Society Through Work
Sanctifying work means shaping culture with Christian values. A Catholic business leader should promote ethical practices, a journalist should seek truth, and a doctor should uphold the dignity of life. By bringing faith into our daily labor, we become witnesses to Christ in the workplace.
The Call to Holiness in Work
St. Joseph’s life reminds us that faith and work are not separate—they are deeply connected. Whether in a high-level corporate role or a simple service job, every professional task can glorify God. By working with excellence, love, and purpose, we fulfill our mission to sanctify the world.
Let us look to St. Joseph, our guide and protector, as we strive to make our work a means of holiness, offering everything to God with trust and love.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/the-example-of-st-joseph-sanctifying-work-with-faith
The Christian Meaning of Work
The sanctification of work is central to St. Josemaría Escrivá’s message. But what does it truly mean to sanctify our work? It means transforming our daily tasks into an offering to God, aligning our efforts with His divine will, and viewing work as a vocation rather than just a necessity.
Many people work for different reasons—some out of financial obligation, others for career success. But as Christians, we are called to something greater: to see our work as a means to serve God and others. Pope Benedict XVI described work as a continuation of God’s creation, perfected through freedom, wisdom, and love. Jesus Himself, having worked as a carpenter in Nazareth, gave profound meaning to human labor.
Work as a Path to Holiness
For a Christian, work is not just a duty—it is a mission. It is where we grow in virtue, serve society, and fulfill our apostolic calling. St. Josemaría taught that work done with love becomes the “work of God.” By embracing effort and sacrifice, we turn work into prayer and an opportunity for sanctification.
Practical Ways to Sanctify Work
Offer Your Work to God Daily – Begin each task with the intention of serving God through it.
Seek Excellence – Work with diligence, honesty, and professionalism.
See Work as Service – Use your talents to help others and contribute to the common good.
Find God in the Ordinary – Recognize that daily labor is a path to holiness.
Work with Joy and Sacrifice – Understand that true joy comes from embracing effort with love.
Learning from the Holy Family
The book Working Well, Working for Love draws inspiration from the life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in Nazareth—a model of holiness in daily labor. Their example teaches us to transform ordinary work into a source of prayer and grace, offering it as a sacrifice that glorifies God and sanctifies the world.
By embracing this perspective, we make our work more than just a job—we make it an act of love that brings us closer to Christ.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/working-well-working-for-love-the-sanctification-of-work
God calls us to both work diligently and rest purposefully—not as opposing forces but as a rhythm designed for human flourishing. The Creation account itself shows us this pattern: after six days of creation, God rested and sanctified the seventh day (Gen 2:1-3).
Work is a collaboration with God’s creative freedom, a means of serving Him and others. But when work becomes an end in itself, we risk forgetting the Source of all things (John Paul II, Dies Domini). Rest is not mere idleness; it renews our strength, deepens our relationship with God, and reminds us that we are more than our productivity.
St. Josemaria Escriva emphasized this balance: “Everything is a means of holiness: work and rest; life of piety and the joys of living together.” Rest is a call to trust—to step back, realign with God’s will, and allow Him to work through us.
True rest is about renewal, not escape. It includes:
✔ Time with family & friends – Building strong relationships rooted in love.
✔ Spiritual renewal – Prayer, retreats, and time with God.
✔ Intellectual & personal growth – Reading, culture, and reflection.
✔ Simple joys – Nature, hobbies, and healthy recreation.
Work is not for self-glory but a path to holiness. Even in exhaustion, our labor is redemptive when united with Christ’s Cross. Yet God does not ask for burnout—He calls us to rest in Him, knowing that our ultimate reward is eternal rest in His presence (Mt 25:21).
In a culture that equates busyness with success, reclaiming rest is countercultural—a reminder that success is not measured in hours worked, but in faithfulness to God’s call.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/work-and-rest-a-sacred-balance
To sanctify our work, we must work well—not simply as a means to an end, but as an act of love for God. St. Josemaria Escriva reminds us: “Holiness does not consist in doing more difficult things every day, but in doing them every day with greater love.”
Work is more than a duty—it’s a vocation, an invitation to participate in God’s creative plan. This means approaching our tasks with:
✔ Diligence – Doing what must be done, not just what we prefer.
✔ Excellence – Striving for quality, not mediocrity.
✔ Integrity – Aligning work with faith, even when no one is watching.
✔ Perseverance – Offering setbacks to God as part of our sanctification.
Holiness is found in the details—in the precision of our work, the way we treat colleagues, and the effort we put into even the smallest tasks. True conscientiousness isn’t perfectionism; it’s faithfulness in the ordinary.
God does not measure success by earthly results but by the love we put into our labor. Even failures, when offered to Him, are transformed into grace. By working with this mindset, our daily tasks become a means of holiness and evangelization.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/working-conscientiously-excellence-as-a-path-to-holiness
"Any honorable work can be prayer, and all prayerful work is apostolate. In this way, the soul develops a unity of life, which is both simple and strong." – St. Josemaría Escriva
For many, work, prayer, and apostolate may seem like separate aspects of life—each with its own time and place. But true holiness is found in the unity of these three, forming a harmonious whole where every action is a step toward God.
Imagine these elements as three notes of a chord. At first, they may seem disconnected, like individual tones without harmony. But when we allow the Holy Spirit to conduct our lives, they blend into a beautiful symphony of love for God and others.
• Work becomes prayer – When done for God’s glory, even the simplest tasks become an offering.
• Prayer fuels work – Daily conversation with God gives meaning and strength to our efforts.
• Work becomes apostolate – By living our faith in the workplace, we bring Christ to others.
This unity of life is not just an ideal—it is a path to holiness in daily life.
St. Josemaría outlined three key elements that ensure our work remains a means of sanctification:
1. Right Intention: Offering Work to God
A unified life begins with a clear purpose—working not for ambition or vanity, but for God’s glory. This means:
Doing our work with excellence and honesty, whether or not anyone is watching.
Offering daily tasks as prayer, renewing our intention throughout the day.
Avoiding discouragement in failure and pride in success, knowing that our work is ultimately for Him.
“You must be careful: don’t let your professional success or failure—which will certainly come—make you forget, even for a moment, what the true aim of your work is: the glory of God!" – St. Josemaría Escriva
2. Sound Principles: Letting Faith Guide Action
Unity of life is not just about good intentions—it requires firm moral principles. A person with true integrity:
Stands for truth and justice in the workplace.
Seeks ethical solutions even when pressured to compromise.
Balances strength and gentleness, remaining both firm and charitable in professional dealings.
A true Christian doesn’t live by double standards—faith should shape every decision, from business ethics to personal interactions.
3. Courage to Witness: Living Faith Publicly
Unity of life demands the courage to be visibly Christian, not just in private but in the workplace and society. This does not mean forcing religious discussions, but:
Letting faith shape decisions—even when unpopular.
Speaking up for truth with wisdom and prudence.
Leading by example, showing integrity, kindness, and generosity in daily work.
"Whoever acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven." (Matthew 10:32)
We are called to be a light in our professional fields—not by separating faith from work, but by letting Christ shine through our actions.
Unity of life is a gift from God, but it also requires personal effort. It is built through:
• Daily prayer – Keeping God at the center of work.
• Formation – Deepening in knowledge of our Catholic faith.
• Apostolic courage – Bringing Christ into the workplace with confidence.
Many people see work as a purely earthly task—something to earn a living, build a career, or achieve success. But St. Josemaria Escriva taught that work has eternal significance. When done with love for God, our daily efforts become more than a profession—they become a path to holiness.
From the beginning, God created man to work and cultivate the world (Gen 2:15). Work is not a punishment—it is an invitation to co-create with God. Jesus himself spent most of his life as a carpenter, teaching us that all work, when united with Him, is redemptive.
St. Josemaria explained: "Work, all work, bears witness to the dignity of man… For a Christian, work is a participation in the creative work of God."
Holiness in work is not about what we do, but how we do it. St. Josemaria emphasized that work should not only be a professional duty but a path to holiness when done with the right supernatural motive. This involves three interconnected dimensions:
✔ Sanctifying the work itself – This means approaching every task—whether big or small—with diligence, integrity, and a spirit of excellence. Work is not simply something we do for earthly success; it is an offering to God. St. Josemaria taught that "it is no good offering to God something that is less perfect than our poor human limitations permit" (Friends of God). Whether writing emails, managing a business, or manual labor, our work should be orderly, honest, and done to the best of our ability—not for our own glory, but for God’s.
✔ Sanctifying ourselves in work – Work is more than a job; it is a means of personal transformation. When done with the right intention, it builds virtues such as perseverance, patience, humility, and responsibility. Through our work, we can learn to overcome laziness, combat self-centeredness, and cultivate fortitude and charity. This is how work becomes not just a task but a path to holiness, making us more like Christ each day.
✔ Sanctifying others through work – Work is also an apostolate, a way of bringing Christ into the world. By working with joy, generosity, and a spirit of service, we inspire those around us and create an environment of virtue. St. Josemaria emphasized that our faith should be visible in the way we treat colleagues, clients, and employees. Whether it’s showing patience in a difficult conversation, maintaining ethical business practices, or simply offering a kind word, our work should point others to God.
By transforming our daily work into an act of love for God, we do more than just complete tasks—we take part in God’s creative work and our own sanctification.
What truly sanctifies work is not success but love for God. A supernatural motive shapes our attitude, leading us to approach even small tasks with care. As St. Josemaria put it: "Add a supernatural motive to your ordinary work, and you will have sanctified it."
This means:
Seeking God’s presence in daily tasks.
Offering each effort, success, and failure as a gift to God.
Recognizing that the dignity of work is not in its prestige but in the love with which it is done.
The workshop of Nazareth teaches us that even the most humble tasks can be filled with grace. Whether we lead a company, teach a class, or clean a home, our work can become a work of God—an opus Dei.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/a-supernatural-motive-transforming-work-into-holiness
During Christmas, we reflect on the Magi bringing gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Christ Child. These gifts symbolize our own offering—the daily work we present to God. As St. Josemaría Escriva taught, our labor, when done with love and intention, becomes a path to sanctity.
The Magi traveled far to adore Jesus, bringing gifts fit for a King. What do we bring?
✔ Gold – Our detachment from personal success or failure, offering our work with humility.
✔ Frankincense – The prayerful spirit we infuse into our daily efforts, making our work an act of love.
✔ Myrrh – The sacrifices of perseverance, struggle, and hidden toil, offered for Christ’s glory.
Like the Magi, we approach Bethlehem ever present in the Tabernacle, where Christ continues to receive our daily offerings.
Work can be demanding, requiring effort and endurance. Yet, instead of seeing it as mere toil, we are called to embrace it as participation in Christ’s mission. The Cross and the Eucharist remind us that work, united with sacrifice, brings redemption.
We are weighed down by challenges but also spurred on by purpose. Work is not just an obligation—it is a path to holiness. When done with diligence and love, it becomes a means of sanctifying ourselves and transforming the world.
Jesus, the Bread of Life, remains with us in the Eucharist, waiting to receive the fruit of our labor. Every visit to the Tabernacle is an opportunity to lay down our work at His feet, just as the Magi laid their gifts before the manger.
In the Holy Mass, our work is mystically united to Christ’s sacrifice:
- The bread and wine represent our efforts, struggles, and victories.
- The priest’s offering mirrors our own daily self-gift to God.
St. Josemaría encouraged us to “put care into your work… preparing your offering for the Epiphany of each day.” This means:
✔ Approaching work with excellence, discipline, and integrity.
✔ Seeking Christ’s presence in ordinary tasks.
✔ Offering successes with gratitude and failures with trust.
By doing this, every moment of work becomes an act of worship, an offering that brings us closer to Christ.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/offering-our-work-to-christ
Work is not just an earthly task—it is part of our redemption. St. Josemaría Escriva saw Christ’s labor in Nazareth not as an ordinary profession, but as an act of salvation, intimately united to his sacrifice on the Cross. Our work, too, when united to Christ, becomes both redemptive and sanctifying.
Jesus did not wait until Calvary to begin His work of redemption. His daily labor as a carpenter was already a perfect act of obedience to the Father, a foreshadowing of His ultimate sacrifice.
Nazareth – In His hidden years, Christ embraced ordinary toil with love and humility. Every cut of wood, every finished table, was an offering to God.
Calvary – On the Cross, He consummated His obedience, showing that sacrifice and work are one when done for the Father’s will.
When we work with faith and love, our daily efforts—however small—become part of this same mission.
"If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." (Luke 9:23)
To follow Christ in work means more than just effort—it requires self-denial:
✔ Obedience in duty – Working not just for personal ambition, but for God’s glory.
✔ Perseverance in struggle – Seeing setbacks as an opportunity for sanctification, not discouragement.
✔ Sacrificing self-will – Offering our preferences to embrace God’s will, even when inconvenient.
Just as Jesus fully submitted His human will in the Garden of Gethsemane ("Not my will, but yours be done," Luke 22:42), we too are called to die to self in our daily tasks.
Our work finds its fullest meaning in the Eucharist. Every task, struggle, and effort can be placed on the altar, joining Christ’s offering.
The sacrifice of the Mass unites our work with His, giving it eternal value.
As St. Josemaría taught: "All the works of men are done as if on an altar, and each one of you, in that union of contemplative souls which is your day, in some way says 'his Mass,' which lasts twenty-four hours, in expectation of the Mass to follow."
Work, when done in union with Christ, does not end in suffering alone—it leads to renewal. Christ’s obedience on the Cross led to His glorification, and our faithfulness in work will lead to our transformation.
The struggles of daily labor shape us into stronger disciples.
The joy of perseverance reminds us that our work has eternal value.
The hope of resurrection assures us that our sacrifices are not in vain.
Every desk, every construction site, every classroom can be a place of sanctification. Christ worked, suffered, and triumphed—so too can we.
Many think of contemplation as something reserved for monks in monasteries. However, St. Josemaría Escriva taught that ordinary work can become contemplative prayer, allowing us to encounter God in the middle of the world. True holiness is not about withdrawing from daily life—it is about finding God in the midst of it.
"Either we learn to find our Lord in ordinary, everyday life, or else we shall never find him." – St. Josemaría Escriva
Contemplation is not limited to quiet moments in church; it happens in the middle of the street, in the office, at home, and in every task we do. Jesus Himself showed us this in His hidden years in Nazareth, where He worked as a carpenter while remaining in constant union with the Father.
The first Christians understood this well, praying as they worked: "While walking, while conversing, when resting, while working or reading, a Christian believer prays." (Clement of Alexandria).
The Church teaches that work, when transformed by the spirit of prayer, can become a means of sanctification and deep union with God (John Paul II).
Contemplation is a loving and joyful awareness of God’s presence, a prayer that goes beyond words. It is:
A deep gaze toward God – Looking at Him with love, as a child looks at a parent.
A heart centered on Christ – Staying united with Him throughout the day.
A "silent prayer" – An awareness of God's presence, even in the busiest moments.
St. Josemaría described it beautifully: "First one brief aspiration, then another, and another… then this gives way to intimacy with God, looking at God without needing rest or feeling tired."
Being a contemplative soul does not mean leaving our responsibilities behind—it means sanctifying them.
Turning Work into Prayer – Offering each task, no matter how small, as an act of love to God.
Seeking God's Presence – Developing the habit of speaking with Him throughout the day.
Letting Love Guide Work – Working with joy, generosity, and attention to detail, knowing that our work is an offering to God.
The more we grow in love for God, the more our daily actions become infused with His presence. Through work, we can encounter Him, serve others, and bring Christ into every aspect of society.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/work-and-contemplation-turning-daily-tasks-into-prayer
Many people see contemplation as something separate from daily life - something reserved for monks and mystics. But St. Josemaría Escriva taught that true contemplation can and should happen in the midst of work, family, and daily responsibilities. The call to holiness is not about choosing between prayer and action, but about bringing them together.
In the Gospel, Martha and Mary represent two approaches to life:
- Martha serves actively but is anxious.
- Mary sits at Jesus’ feet in contemplation.
Jesus tells Martha that "Mary has chosen the better part." (Luke 10:42) Traditionally, this has been interpreted as a preference for the contemplative life over the active life. However, St. Josemaría deepened this understanding, showing that contemplation is possible within action, particularly in professional and family life.
St. Josemaría identified three ways to cultivate a contemplative spirit:
1. Contemplation in Prayer – Dedicated times of mental prayer, meditation, and conversation with God.
2. Contemplation While Working – Seeking God's presence in simple tasks, breaks, and daily moments.
3. Contemplation Through Work – Transforming even intense, focused work into an offering to God.
When these three come together, prayer and work become inseparable.
"And in my meditation, a fire shall flame out." (Psalm 39:3)
Morning prayer is like lighting a fire that fuels the entire day. Prayer should be:
• Consistent – A daily appointment with God.
• Personal – A real conversation, not just recited words.
• Deepening – Moving from speaking to simply gazing at God with love.
As St. Josemaría said: "We start with vocal prayers… then comes intimacy with God, looking at Him without needing rest or feeling tired."
The highest level of contemplation is when work itself becomes an act of love. This means:
• Seeing work as service – Not just for personal success, but for God’s glory and the good of others.
• Striving for excellence – Not for perfectionism, but as a gift to God.
• Accepting struggles with joy – Uniting difficulties to Christ.
St. Josemaría taught that true contemplation is not about stopping work to pray, but working in a way that itself becomes prayer.
The highest goal is to work like Jesus in Nazareth, where His labor was already a participation in the Redemption. The more we love God through our work, the more our work becomes a path to contemplation.
sentventures.com/thought-leadership/work-and-contemplation-finding-god-in-the-midst-of-daily-life