Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Why No Men in Church?

It has been evident for some time that the churches of Jesus Christ have a problem. We are not attracting males to attend and be involved in church life. Other great religions do not have this problem. Islam and Judaism are well known for having many males involved but the churches around the globe attract a minority of males.

There is a new movement in Christian circles to change that pattern. There are several books, newsletters and conferences about men in church and I pray that it takes hold. You can access the newsletter at Church for Men admin@churchformen.com

How about your congregation? Is it attracting males as well as females? Are you consciously trying to reach men by planning and implementing events, talks and programs for them? There is a truism among Christian leaders that "If we can attract men the women will also be there but the reverse is not true."

Almost all lay leadership in churches is heavily female but the professional leaders are heavily male dominated. However, that is also changing because so many more women than men are going to seminary. This is the reverse of the Early Church that attracted strong, vital men who risked life and limb to become missionary pioneers in a world hostile to Christ.

The current situation cannot change without an intentional and well planned emphasis. One of the reasons I started the weekly golf league for Christians arose from my concern that males have so very few places for fun and fellowship based on active and competitive sports. We have a few females who challenge us to play our best and we are happy for that but we men still get to release our aggressive attitudes on a regular basis.

If you or a friend are interested in golfing with a group of Gracious Golfers who shoot in the High Nineties, give me a call.

No comments: