The first thing I notice is the young bishop in striking blue and gold robes, carrying a huge basket of bread. The second? He’s barefoot.

I’ve just entered a small church near Glendalough, dedicated to Saint Kevin. Though Saint Kevin is on the right, the icon before me depicts another Irish saint: Laurence O’Toole—or, in the 12th century, Lorcán Ua Tuathail.

The painting captures Laurence’s life in rich detail.

I see a young boy in chains, recalling when Laurence, only ten, was handed over by his father as a hostage to the King of Leinster as a token of loyalty.

Thankfully, the abbot of Glendalough intervened and secured his freedom. When Laurence’s father returned to reclaim him, Laurence chose to stay with the monks instead. Who could blame him?

By age 25, he’d been elected abbot of Glendalough, facing a daunting task. The monks were undisciplined, buildings were in disrepair, and clan rivalries threatened the community. Laurence met these challenges with three key reforms:

1. Spiritual Renewal: He revitalized the monks’ discipline, drawing on the Augustinian rule for communal life and service.

2. Service to the Poor: Laurence sold monastery treasures to buy food for the hungry, symbolized in the icon with a basket of bread for the poor.

3. Discipline and Humility: He expected monks to lead by example, giving away his shoes and walking barefoot himself as a sign of humility and service.

Laurence’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed; at 32, he became bishop of Dublin. Yet he stayed grounded, helping the poor and sheltering homeless children in his own residence.

Often returning to Glendalough, he’d retreat to the same cave Saint Kevin once used.

Laurence’s approach to leadership can inspire us to prioritize renewal in our own organizations by focusing on service, humility, and genuine community.

Is there a particular leader who inspired you in your own life? In what way? Share your story in the comments!