UMM delegation pose in a chapel sanctuary with Philippine and United Methodist flags flanking a stained glass window.

United Methodist Men Groups from U.S., Philippines Hold First Joint Conference

The Rev. Dr. Rick Vance and Bishop L. Jonathan Holston attended the First General Commission for United Methodist Men–National UMMP Connectional Conference in Manila. Pictured: Bishop Rodel Acdal, the Rev. Dr. Rick Vance, Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, Bishop Ismael Painit and the National Executive Committee of the NUMMP. Photo provided by: Philippines Regional Conference.

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New Welcome Video

Get a personal hello and a look at what’s ahead this season, straight from our leadership team.

Hit Play: A Word of Welcome

Men gathering outside and patting each other on the back

Start With One Man

The strength of men’s ministry begins not with programs, meetings, or budgets, but with relationships—starting with one man. Reach out to someone who may be disconnected from church or men’s ministry by sharing a meal, having coffee, making a call, and genuinely listening to his story.

Moving from club to community means building trust and creating meaningful opportunities for connection, service, mentoring, discipleship, and fellowship. If every active man intentionally reached out to just one other man, we could reconnect those who have drifted away, reach new generations, develop leaders, and help more men experience the love and grace of Jesus Christ. The challenge is simple: one man, one conversation, one relationship—and see what God might do.

From the General Secretary’s Desk

Ministry With, Not To

While in El Salvador, a meeting with the Association of Scouts of El Salvador led to an unexpected opportunity to assist at a car accident, where first-aid and Mental Health First Aid training helped provide immediate support to an injured young man. However, the experience also revealed the limits of training without local knowledge, as nearby residents knew the language, emergency procedures, and who to contact.

The experience became a powerful reminder that ministry works the same way: our gifts, experience, and knowledge are most effective when shared in partnership with people who understand their communities. Christ calls us not to “ministry to” others, but to “ministry with” others, recognizing that each person has a vital role in the Body of Christ.

From the Scout House