'The challenge to me and the challenge of the Church is to get beyond comfortable habits and take risks that go contrary to the familiar.' For 50 years, John J. Sullivan, as priest and bishop, has given witness to these words and the Catholic faith by allowing ministry to be shaped by the needs and experiences of people. His inspiration was the 'mission' territory of Oklahoma, where he experienced the importance of shared ministry among priests, women religious and lay people. He showed compassion for people, placed his trust in them, and initiated new efforts, especially among the laity, in trying to live out the vision of the Gospels. The Call To Ministry recounts his pastoral leadership in the challenging decades before and after Vatican II. Many are convinced that such models of leadership are needed as the American church enters the 21st century.
