Mission

The mission of every Men’s Ministry Specialist (MMS) is to serve United Methodist lay and clergy leaders and their congregations in developing effective processes to make disciples of men for Jesus Christ.

Certification as a MMS

MMS is not an elected position within the UMC. MMS is an educated and trained position that includes required classroom style training, interactive ministry and missions training, as well as commitment to Christian spiritual formation as an ongoing process. There are specified training, experience and personal growth requirements that must be completed and documented before an MMS candidate is certified to serve within the UMC. The certifying body for MMS is the GCUMM.

Core Values Demonstrated and Documented by a MMS

1. A growing disciple of Jesus Christ
2. A person mentored by and accountable to a Christian spiritual mentor
3. A servant leader, called to serve in men's ministry
4. An individual of Godly character, faithful, trustworthy and credible
5. A disciple of Jesus Christ who is committed to The United Methodist Church
6. A life-long learner who is continually growing with God

Demonstrated Skill Set of a MMS

1. Proficiency in oral and written communication
2. Basic computer skills
3. Ability to teach, yet possessing a teachable spirit
4. Availability to serve and be faithful to God’s call
5. Ability to evaluate a congregation’s ministry, looking for ways to expand opportunities to involve and disciple men
6. Superior listening skills and the ability to serve as a trustworthy mentor

Roles and Responsibilities of a MMS

1. Communicates effectively with lay and clergy leaders by listening and then assessing congregational needs and goals
2. Offers effective training, resources and programs to help congregations fully engage men who are growing as disciples of Jesus Christ in the ministry of the church
3. Assists the men’s ministry teams of local churches, working as partners with clergy and other church leaders toward an all-inclusive ministry to, with, and for men
4. Connects congregational leaders with district, conference, jurisdictional, and general church leaders and ministry resources. The MMS does not replace or displace district or conference leaders, he/she is a resource partner with and for them
5. Equips and motivates congregation leaders to discover unique local means of ministry to, with, and for men
6. Helps congregations create clear pathways of spiritual growth for men at all stages of spiritual maturity
7. Serves one or several congregations, using demonstrated skills and spiritual discernment to offer ministry resources and guidance that best suit the needs of men in each local church
8. Documents meetings and interaction with congregations as a means of reporting progress
9. Identifies and trains other men to assist him/her and perhaps serve as MMSs
10. Represents the GCUMM to men on the local church level

Certified Men's Ministry Specialists in Your Area

A list of MMSs in your area is available upon request. Please contact Rev. Dr. Rick Vance, Director of Men's Ministry at rvance@gcumm.org or (615) 620-7277.

Interested in becoming a candidate?

For a brief overview of the MMS program, view the Men's Ministry Specialist brochure.
For an overview of MMS candidacy and to begin the process, please review the MMS Application: Part 1 and email a completed copy of the contact information form to Rick.

MMS Testing Requirements

Two sets of tests are required for MMS certification: History/Polity and Safe Sanctuaries/Sexual Ethics. Do not submit exams until you have been assigned a coach.

UM History and Polity

• History and Polity course materials (PDF)
• Take Part 1 (PDF)
• Take Part 2 (PDF)

GCUMM Safe Sanctuaries and Sexual Ethics

• Safe Sanctuaries and Sexual Ethics policy (PDF)
• Safe Sanctuaries and Sexual Ethics exam (PDF)

Save results and either email them to Joe or print and mail them to:

GCUMM
1000 17th Ave S.
Nashville, TN 37212
Fax: 615-340-1770