Just Lead!: A No Whining, No Complaining, No Nonsense Practical Guide for Women Leaders in the Church

Praise for Just Lead!

“With humor, candor, and honest vulnerability, Sherry and Jenni provide practical leadership help for women to develop the skills to lead themselves and others with the character, confidence, and authenticity of a godly woman. A generation of women leaders have been waiting for this book!”

—Brad Lomenick, president, Catalyst

“Jenni Catron and Sherry Surratt choose transparency as their way of connecting to the hearts of women called to lead in ministry today. In Just Lead!, they reveal the script of their leadership journeys and lift you beyond the boundaries of whatever you may think leadership is or is not. It’s both challenging and refreshing to be served up this brand of candid, no-nonsense wisdom. If you have the courage to soak in some serious straight talk and a willingness to let what you learn reshape your leadership style, then Just Lead! is the ‘must read’ for you.”

—Tami Heim, president and CEO of Christian Leadership Alliance

“If I could pick two leaders to represent the next generation of women leaders it would be Jenni Catron and Sherry Surratt. Simply put if you’re a female and in leadership you need to read this book. Just Lead! is a faithful and fresh challenge that is provocative and yet massively optimistic.”

—Pete Wilson, lead pastor, Cross Point Church; author, Plan B and Empty Promises

“God created in [us] the desire and raw talent to lead, just as he has in you. . . . God is asking us to do something with what he has given us: not to dig a hole and keep it a secret or pretend with false humility that we aren’t able, and not to hide in a corner because we’re afraid someone will point a finger and label us bossy. But to use our creativity and ability to learn, grow, and become the leader God designed us to be.”

—From the Introduction

Just Lead! is a welcome guide for women who feel called to lead but who need help to learn what it takes to break the “stained-glass ceiling.” As two experienced leaders who have served in a number of capacities in churches and organizations, Surratt and Catron not only explore the barriers—internal and external—that keep women from assuming a leadership role but also provide practical reality checks on what women can do to become effective leaders. The book shows how to handle criticism, face indecision, and grapple with the loneliness that often comes with being in charge. It also offers sage advice on respecting gender differences, overcoming communication barriers, leading other women, and developing a balanced team.

Written with style and wit, Just Lead! is filled with illustrative examples, solid research, and practical advice for women who aspire to leadership roles within their churches and ministries. Sherry Surratt and Jenni Catron have “walked the leadership walk” and are wise companions in showing godly women how to lead well.

If you are a woman who wants to successfully navigate the transitions necessary to lead well in church and ministry settings, Just Lead! is the handbook you need.