Now is the time
By Mark Lubbock
““The mind of man plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.”
–– Proverbs 16:9
Now is the time to pray, plan, and launch new men’s ministries.
This not the first pandemic of course, but this is the first time we have the tools to communicate with one another without the risk of exposure to the virus.
In an impossibly short period of time people worldwide have learned how to embrace digital face-to-face communication. Men everywhere are jumping onboard with video and phone conferencing. Surprisingly, people who previously showed no interest and perhaps rejected the use of new technology are now well-versed in its use.
Note that younger men often say they have no time for meetings. Sequestering is leaving them with more time, and on-line meetings make it easier to participate without taking time from the family.
We can see that video meetings open up new ways to engage and involve men but at the same time there are pitfalls to avoid.
Just shifting your same old meetings online will ultimately fail to capture new men. Instead offer online events that invite participation, address personal needs and offer mission and ministry opportunities.
For example, some men are (for the first time) experiencing loss, helplessness, and even hopelessness. An online event that acknowledges this circumstance and offers hope, would be appropriate.
Perhaps your organization is engaged in mission projects such as building handicap ramps, digging water wells, or providing home repairs for the elderly. An online event that promotes, explains, and offers a several points of entry can reach a broad audience.
Each project provides an opportunity to tell a compelling story and invite participation and raise funds.
Pray, listen and launch what God places on your heart.
Feel free to contact me if you have questions on how to begin or implement a new online ministry.
Mark Lubbock, a certified men’s ministry specialist and Louisiana-based staff member
General Commission on UM Men