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April Mens Minsitry 2016
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General Commission on United Methodist Men - Leader Letter, April 2016
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A bimonthly e-mail letter
from agency officers and staff
to leaders of United Methodist Men
April, 2016
Click here to view the full newsletter with expanded articles
GCUMM President Bishop James Swanson Sr. invites us to see if we are more fixated on the trappings of the Church than on actually being involved with people. If we are to be judged by our statements and debates we would probably receive high marks. However, God judges us on our actions.
Gil Hanke recalls a meeting with leaders of men’s ministry from other denominations. What made this such an extraordinary meeting? “Simple- we centered ourselves on finding better ways to bring men into a new, on-growing relationship with the living Christ.”
In his first entry as NACP president, Steve Nailor recalls how as conference president he encouraged leaders to concentrate on one area ministry from a long menu of possible activities. He asks district UMM presidents to concentrate on doing a great job on a particular program or ministry about which their district is passionate.
Larry Coppock noted the office of scouting ministry specialist was created seven years ago. There are now 300 specialists who are helping churches establish or expand their scouting ministries. “Most importantly, scouting creates portals or entry points for making new disciples.”
Mark Lubbock urges groups of UM Men to make certain all their gatherings contribute to fulfilling their vision statements. He suggests men will be more likely to attend if events are publicized early and if each man has a particular responsibility at the meeting. He also encourages groups to establish a succession plan for officers.
Jim Boesch notes there is a major gap between knowing and doing. He says post-training experiences are needed to help men overcome obstacles that will surface as men attempt to apply their training. “Remember, if the pressure to change is taken off, men will revert back to old behaviors.”
Mark Dehority celebrates the presence of 38 men’s ministry specialists and 27 candidates for that position. He summarizes the requirements and invites men to consider becoming a specialist. “This is the beginning of a meaningful walk with Christ. It is supported by a strong band of brothers and connections with others . . .”
Dan Ramsey tries to imagine Joseph’s response to the dream damaging news that his fiancée is with child. He recalls how a knee injury in a high school football game destroyed his dream of playing football at the collegiate level. God allowed him to achieve another life dream of becoming a police officer.
Also, catch up on the latest news and opinions at the Facebook of UM Men.
Expand the ministries of Strength for Service by purchasing material from a Home Depot store. The General Council on Finance and Administration provides step-by-step instructions. Do not try to register your credit card at a store.
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