An Action Research Exploration of Leadership Formation among the Ahtna that Resulted in the Discovery of Factors Encouraging the Emergence of Indigenous Christian Leaders

Abstract

This project examined the leadership development process from several perspectives. First, a theological study of the concepts of spiritual and cultural identity provided the biblical basis for these foundational aspects of a leader's life. Second, the concept of cultural identity was also examined from a System Theory perspective, including a description of and the need for well-differentiated leadership. Finally, using Action Research as a methodology, the project explored cultural fundamentals of leadership among the Ahtna people of south-central Alaska, searching for perspectives and practices already embedded in the Ahtna culture that would serve as the foundation for Christian leadership development. Emerging from the project are factors that encourage the development of leaders in a culturally appropriate way. These include (l) an understanding of the concept of leadership in a given cultural context, (2) the critical role of culture and community in the leadership formation process, (3) recognition and response to cataclysmic experiences, and (4) the importance of faith and a developing sense of spiritual identity. Furthermore, the research demonstrated the pivotal place of mentoring in the formation of leaders through the experience of planning and carrying out a mentoring event for young men. These outcomes provided markers on the journey toward culturally relevant and biblically based formation of local church leadership.