The leadership spiritualityof multnomah bible college its impact on the organisation today

Abstract

This study examines archival materials, pertinent literary sources, and nine interviews, (identified in Chapter One), in order to understand the leadership spirituality of Multnomah Bible College and its impact on the organisation today. To accomplish this goal, a study of spirituality and, in particular Christian Spirituality was undertaken. Since Multnomah was established during the American Bible Institute Movement, the movement itself was researched to understand its theological and historical context. With this background in mind, the academy was researched to gain knowledge into its specific theological and historical context. The historical and theological trends in the Pacific Northwest were investigated first, along with influential individuals, to gain insight into what specifically motivated the inauguration of the academy in Portland, Oregon. After gaining insight into why the academy was established, the study was expanded further into a brief history of the development and expansion of the institution itself from 1936 to the present. This more extensive historical and theological background provides the necessary platform in understanding the present situation at Multnomah and its possible future. Subsequently, the individual spiritual journey of nine Multnomah leaders were explored through qualitative interviewing, the most effective means of obtaining such personal information. The findings shed light on their leadership spirituality and impact on the academy. The data from the research was subsequently evaluated in light of known theories of faith and leadership development.