United Methodist Men
The primary purpose of United Methodist Men is to declare the centrality of Christ in the lives of men and in all their relationships. Accordingly, the Virginia Conference United Methodist Men’s Cabinet works with the local church men’s groups, and other district organizations, in developing programs to meet the needs and interests of men of all ages. The annual Spiritual Retreat is at the very center of United Methodist Men growing with Christ, is held at the Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center in Blackstone, Virginia. Beginning on the first Friday in November, the weekend is filled with worship, singing and abounding fellowship, all building blocks for renewed spiritual energy that helps carry men through the demands and temptations of daily living. Nationally known, spirit-filled speakers at recent retreats have included Dr. Maxie Dunnam, the Rev. Chris Buskirk, Dr. Eddie Fox, Dr. William Hinson and Dr. George Morris. United Methodist Men strongly support the Virginia Conference Commission on Disabilities with commitments of time, talent and finances for Heart Havens and Camp Rainbow Connection. Their assistance goes a long way in providing places for the mentally and physically disabled to live out their lives in Heart Havens residences, places they can call “home.” Men also serve as volunteer counselors at Camp Rainbow’s special weeklong summer camps for those of God's children with developmental disabilities. Each year in late March or early April, Leadership Development Day provides training opportunities geared toward developing spiritual leaders at the local church level. Workshops are expressly designed for district and local fellowship officers, and all those who are committed to, or want to learn more about the United Methodist Men’s movement. The United Methodist Church is the largest sponsor of Scouting units in the United States, and is a ministry of the General Commission on United Methodist Men. Accordingly, United Methodist Men’s groups provide primary sponsorship in the local church for Scouting ministries that includes Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts, and Venture Crews. A wondrous story, as told in the fourth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew, notes that as Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon Peter and Andrew, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." United Methodist Men tell of God's Good News, for they, too, are fishers of men. To learn more about United Methodist Men, or to establish a chartered fellowship in your church, to get more men actively involved in receiving the joy and blessing of working together in a Christian atmosphere, is easy. Simply contact the district president in your area, or any of the Virginia Conference officers, shown below. Or, if you prefer, contact Virginia Conference United Methodist Men’s acting president, Larry Burian, directly at 360 E Harbor Dr, Reedville, VA 22539-3613, by calling (804) 453-4004, or by sending an e-mail message to him at LLBurian@hughes.net
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