100 years of extraordinary ministry

Our Book of Discipline states: “United Methodist Men (UMMen) exists to declare the centrality of Christ in every man’s life. Men’s ministry leads to the spiritual growth of men and effective discipleship. This purpose is served as men are called to model the servant leadership of Jesus Christ.” (Paragraph 2302, 2004 Book of Discipline) Their mission is accomplished under the umbrella of Evangelism, Mission and Spiritual Life (EMS).

Every time I recall the transforming work of UMMen, I remember a servant leader from Florida. His name was James Russo. Jim was incarcerated and spent time in a federal prison in Atlanta. It was there through the prison ministry of UMMen that he accepted Christ as his Savior. His life was never the same. After his release, he became a pastor in the Florida Conference with a very long journey toward ordination as an associate member. His ministry was named One Way Out, which was an extraordinary ministry for felons and family members statewide. He established Walk with a Brother weekends at the conference camp, partnering men with newly released offenders, and based on the Chrysalis model of spiritual formation. After time, A Walk with a Sister weekend was added as well. This became part of my own spiritual formation.

Jim’s whole life after prison was redeemed and totally changed because of his faith walk with Christ. He was a big, tall man, big-boned, swarthy complexion, hardened features after years of living a life of crime. But his heart was full of so much love, and he literally reached thousands of persons for Christ during his ministry. He was awarded the Denman Evangelism recognition at our annual conference one year. His imprint, even after his own death and resurrection, remains in my home state, in the lives of thousands of ex-offenders and their family members. What a powerful witness he was and such a humble spirit.

The thing is, the United Methodist Men got behind him and there was no end to what their combined ministries could do. Under the umbrella of UMMen, there was evangelism, mission outreach and abundant spiritual life. What an extraordinary partnership for almost 20 years. I saw men’s lives changed just because of the privilege of knowing and working with Jim.

I commend all our United Methodist men in our many congregations, in districts and in conference leadership who are servant leaders. Congratulations on 100 years of distinctive service and may God grant you courage and boldness for the next 100 years of extraordinary ministry! 

            Grace and Peace,           

            Charlene Kammerer