As we enter into a new season for the UMC in Florida, there is a need for a renewed vision for the role of men’s ministry in our Conference. There remains a call To Help Men Grow In Christ, So Others May Know Christ, and a need to provide meaningful environments where men can find support and encouragement.

Reclaiming the role of men's ministry in the church will require a deeper understanding of our 21st century context and a commitment to seeking spiritually accessible, non-toxic and more inclusive models. We’ll need mentors, brothers, pastors and guides who can bring a fresh perspective; small groups, outreach events and learning opportunities that can include men from a diversity of life experiences, family structures, economic realities and discipleship journeys.

In the 2023-24 appointment year, this will be the work of United Methodist Men in the Florida Conference. Under the guidance of the Conference Board of Laity, Justice Ministries and others, a new vision for UMM will be discerned through prayer, new experiences, expansive learnings and more. We believe this new direction will offer inspiration, resources, and models that will assist local congregations in their ministry to men in their community.

Our first step includes an opportunity to hear from you - all of you. We are inviting individuals in the Florida Conference to participate in a survey where you can tell us the story of UMM in your local congregation. We'd love to receive feedback from everyone: all genders, all ages and all roles. Whether you've been a part of UMM chapters your entire life, supported those ministries from a distance or find yourself hearing about it for the first time, your comments will be helpful. It is important for us to know where we’ve been as we discern where God is leading. In the coming weeks, I will be convening a study group who will receive this feedback and together we'll consider our next exploratory steps towards re-envisioning UMM in our Conference.  In the meantime, if you have questions, need support or just want to make sure your ministry is on our radar, I want to invite you to reach out to Laurie Hofts. Thanks in advance for your participation. We are excited about the future of UMM in the Florida Conference. 

Sincerely,

Derrick Scott III
Co-Lay Leader, Florida Conference