Prayer and technology provide answers
By Dr. Rick Vance
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
––Philippians 4:6
This passage has been used many times over the last several weeks, but I must confess that there have been times when I am anxious and struggling to find an answer, only to find the answer is “pray!”
First, know that the Center for Men’s Ministries is open and available to assist you with your ministry needs.
Many of you continue to be anxious about General Conference 2020. First, the conference has been postponed. While we are waiting answers to the many questions about next steps, would you join me in praying for God’s wisdom and will to be done in the life of the church?
Many of our men have found that the social distancing that has been in effect has interrupted their gatherings. Jim Boesch reminded us that God created us for relationships. May I challenge you to think of that in a new way?
In Matthew 18:20 (NIV), Jesus reminds us that “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Jesus did not say that we had to be gathered in one place. We need to look at new ways to gather in this time of distancing.
Computer video conferencing platforms allow men to gather for prayer, accountability, and learning.
I have already heard of a men’s unit that gathers for a “virtual breakfast.” Other men continue to use conference calls, facetime, and other means to support and pray for each other.
While this technology is available, some older men say they can’t learn it or the technology is too expensive. This could be not further from the truth.
The Center for Men’s Ministries is available to offer training and to suggest platforms that will meet the needs of your men’s organization.
If you would like additional information, please email me (rvance@gcumm.org) or call the center (615) 620-7277.
You are in our prayers, please let us know how we can help you “coach men to THRIVE through Christ . . .”
Your brother on the journey,
The Rev. Dr. Rick Vance, director of the Center for Men’s Ministries
General Commission on UM Men