Leaders and being led...

Someone recently told me something... and I don't know if it is true or not, but my over analytical brain can't get off of this comment.

They said that when a leader starts something, or is leading a group of people, that whether or not the "movement" will exist beyond the tenure of the leader has less to do with the leader, and more about the group. He said that sometimes, a group will follow someone just because of who they are and what they stand for - and as soon as they are gone that group, falls apart.

Sometimes, though, a spark is lit, and the group continues on without the leader.

I wonder if it really does have anything to do with the leader? I wonder if it is any sort of statement to actually how affective they are?

I wonder if this is why some parishes, dioceses, and movements within the Church march on for long periods of time, while others are a quick bright flash, only to leave as quickly as they came. Again, I wonder if this has to do more with the leaders or the led?