The Men’s Ministry
One of the several places where men can find a safe place is the church. True, church attendance is on the decline and men seem to shy away from the institution more than anyone else, it does not mean the church gets a pass on ministering to men. In fact, that is one of the main reasons why the church needs to step up it’s program and plans.
The stakes are high. There are future generations that need better role models. There are spouses who need to have a partner who not only understands, but has more than one or two word answers to everything. Entire communities are starved of wisdom, expertise, and encouragement that often gets locked up behind sealed lips of emotionally inexpressive or unavailable men. (not saying women aren’t guilty of the same, but the topic of the day focuses on men)
The foundational goal of the church is evangelism. Today, more than any other time, handing out fliers to draw people to church does not work. People go to church because family or friends made a compelling case for the visit. An active Men’s Ministry program is a great tool to reach families in the community and direct their attention to church. Every man has a parent or relative. Many have spouses and children. Significant inroads into a community can be made if the needs of men are touched.
There are significant mentoring, job training, interview training, networking, and social opportunities that the church can consider for the Men’s Ministry program. The need is present. The demand is there. Finding out what the men need in the church body as well as the local community is very important. Start by creating a safe place for men to gather, talk, learn to trust, and open up to each other. (Do not forget to do these in a prayerful fashion… inspiration from above is critical)
While many look to the church to create the perfect solution, dear reader, be encouraged to talk to your church and see what they can do if they’re not already doing it. Even better, offer to help start the dialog or the programming if there isn’t such an option available to join already.
One complaint levied by the Woman’s Ministry is that the Men’s Ministry is great at doing the one day a year programs that has all the fellas dressed well serving food and doing everything… and then, nothing until the next year. The participation doesn’t lead to any level of action. We must do better to help serve our men and our families.
In the big picture and context of this site, the home is lead by two competent people under traditional circumstances. Both need to be on the same page and growing together to move the family forward. In the event the household is led by a single person, the principle is all the more critical. That person needs to know they can team up with other resources to help them reach their goals. Giving greater urgency to the phrase it takes a village…
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