Three Virtues for Catholic Business Executives, inspired by ‘Godsplaining’ podcast

In a podcast episode of "Godsplaining", Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress discuss ten virtues that they believe (in some instances, according to Aquinas), Catholic leaders should embody.

These virtues would be valuable for anyone to aim for, but as business leaders, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to be Christ to others, to lead with humility, and to speak truth in all sectors.

We've highlighted three of the ten virtues they discuss in this article. Along with a brief explanation, you'll also find reflection questions, a prayer prompt, and a way to take immediate action. If you’re still looking for guidance for your Lenten spiritual practice, consider starting here.

Docility

As leaders in the workplace, we hold a position of authority. We are often making the rules and steering the ship, and this requires confidence and the ability to instruct. This is a strength, but we are only at our best when our self-confidence is paired with docility.

In an article shared on Catholic Answers, one writer shares, “As a Christian virtue, docility is what enables us to be formed in the Catholic faith, to grow as disciples of Christ the Teacher,” 

Fr. Pine goes on to say that a docile leader is one who is able to receive wisdom from those who are wiser, to take input from others, and to draw forth talents from those who surround us.

Ask – How can I be a more docile leader? What does true docility look like, and how can I become more docile in the workplace? 

Where am I resistant to this virtue, perhaps believing that I have nothing to learn or no room to grow? 

Pray – Lord, teach me to lead with docility, so that I may look more like you and reveal your glory to those who I work with.

Take action! – Today, commit to asking questions and actually listening to the answer. Write it down, and genuinely consider what the other has said.

Amiability

This may not be a word we use in our day to day encounters, but we could replace it with ‘friendliness’. And yes, this is a virtue!

Fr. Kress, who recently served as liturgical emcee at our 2026 Summit in Santa Barbara, explains this as a “pursuit of relationships”, recognizing that the majority of life and leadership is all about learning how to be in relationship with other humans.

It is tempting for the many relationships we have, especially at work, to become “accidental”. Be it with our employees, vendors, customers, or anyone else we encounter professionally, each person provides an opportunity to be radically intentional with how we treat humans, to be another Christ.

Ask – Do those I work with consider me friendly or amiable? If my employees have an issue or concern, are they comfortable and confident approaching me? If so, how can I keep this up? If not, where can I grow?

Take action! – Today, smile every time you make eye contact with someone at work. It doesn’t have to be cheesy or unnatural, but starting with a friendly gaze is a powerful first step.

Vulnerability

Fr. Pine and Fr. Kress reflect on the importance of vulnerability in the work place, and Pat Lencioni says something similar in one of his Three Minute Reset episodes.

If you’re imaging this to mean merely sharing your deepest feelings perhaps in a therapeutic setting, think again. The friars would say vulnerability is akin to authenticity and humility, or simply “being completely human”. It is the “cracking-open” of ourselves to acknowledge our need for a Savior, who is Truth Incarnate. When we are honest about our human shortcomings, we create an environment of trust and loyalty.

Ask – How can I be more vulnerable (in the above sense) in a professional setting? Where can I lead with humility, admitting to my own failings? Do I know anyone who has done this well? Who are they, and how can I learn from them?

Pray – Lord, make my heart one of flesh, and grant me the grace and courage to cultivate a culture of honesty and authentic humanity at my workplace.

As Catholic leaders and members of Legatus, we are given a strong foundation and a wellspring of knowledge and wisdom. Let us use these insights to become more Christ-like leaders in our workplaces, homes, and communities. To God be all the glory!