In this episode, Lindsay talks with Elaine Howard Ecklund (Rice University) to talk about the intersection of faith and work and why it matters in the places we spend most of our lives. We dig into insights from her new book, co-written with Denise Daniels (Wheaton College), Working for Better: a New Approach to Faith at Work. We talk about her research on how people experience calling in their jobs and what it takes to create systemic change. Elaine and Lindsay explore how leaders and congregations can foster environments where faith isn’t just something we carry to church on Sunday, but something we live out every day, helping workplaces become more redemptive for everyone.

Takeaways

Faith can actually make us more committed and effective at work.
Everyday employees have the power to shift workplace culture from the inside.
Churches/clergy can help people thrive professionally, not just spiritually.

Field Note: For leaders in the workplace, take the time to understand the specific challenges at work. Find a group of trusted peers (at church for example) and create the space to thoughtfully address similar challenges.

For clergy, get to know the kind of work your congregants do and the challenges they face each day. This will have an impact on workplaces and help people bring more of themselves to both their work environment and church.

Resources and links

Elaine Howard Eckland’s website: https://www.elainehowardecklund.com/

Working for Better book with InterVarsity Press: https://www.ivpress.com/working-for-better

SLI’s Spiritual Leadership Generator Tool: https://www.spiritual-leadership.org/leadershipgenerator/

Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.