NEWS & UP-DATES from

Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla

“Serving God, Family & Community, one man at a time”

“So as iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another”  Proverbs 27:17
(continue to scroll down for previous news updates)
 

May 2011

Greetings Brothers in Christ,
        To all those who came out and participated at our last meeting, thank you. It was an exciting time as we dove deep into the subject of love. We discovered that love isn’t about feelings. The world can’t understand love (agape love) because this love comes from God.(1 John 4:7-21) Love for most people means, there is something about you that brings me pleasure or benefits me. This love is motivated by selfish gain. Through Christ’s example and parables such as the Good Samaritan, we learned that love is giving with the motivation of benefiting others without any expectation of selfish gain or reward.

In 1corinthians 13, we read that great sacrifice even to death without love is done in vain. Love requires the right motivation.  This means doing things to benefit others without regards for one ’s self. Can two people do the same thing and one is an expression of love and the other not? YES let’s look at a few examples.

Two men find a wallet in the parking lot. The 1^st man thinks to himself, “ I need to get this wallet back to the owner. I’m sure there must be a reward for returning it.”
 The 2^nd man thinks to himself, “The last time I lost my wallet it took six months to get everything straight. I need to find the owner so he doesn’t suffer like I did”.

Two men are driving home from work,. The 1^st man sees an elderly woman on the side of the road with a flat tire. He thinks to himself, “I hope she has triple A” and kept driving.  7 miles down the road, a slender young lady was on the side of the road with her hood up. The man thinks to himself,” If I get her car started maybe she will go out with me. Boy what a fox. “He immediately pulls over and asks if he could help.
The 2^nd man sees the elderly lady with a flat tire, and immediately pulls over and changes the tire for her. When she tried to pay him, he said “I can’t accept your money, I’m glad I was able to help.”

Two men decided to pray that God would heal their wives’. The 1^st man prayed “Dear God please heal my wife. I haven’t had a decent meal since she got sick. The house is a mess and I need my clothes washed, ironed and put away. Thank you for hearing my prayers and ending my suffering. Amen.
The 2^nd man prayed for his wife, “Dear God, Thank you for entrusting me with your precious daughter. Please heal her and end her suffering. Lord, my wife does such a wonderful job cooking, cleaning and doing the laundry, please help me as I do these things so that she won’t worry about them. Thank you for healing her. Amen”

From these examples you can clearly see how the motivation makes a difference. So how does one learn how to love? In 1 john 4, we learned that true love comes from God. He is the only one who can help us learn to love. If you need a great online bible resource, biblegateway.com is a good one. The 1^st and 2^nd greatest commandments involve love. I would like to encourage each of you to examine your motivation. Are your actions motivated by love or selfish gain?

Monday May 2^nd  at 7pm, we will have our next Men’s meeting at the Wakulla County Library located at 4330 Crawfordville Highway.  God’s word tells us that if we love Him we will keep His commandments. We will look at God’s commandments concerning our lifestyle. Does our words, actions, thoughts, attitude, etc, declare that Jesus is our Lord and that the Holy Spirit dwells inside of us? Please join us for another exciting time in God’s word. I look forward to seeing you there.

God bless you.

Andre White

April 2011

  Greetings brothers in Christ,
                I would like to thank all of you who came out and participated in our last meeting on Monday April 4^th. On Saturday April 16^th at 8am, you are invited to the monthly Men’s breakfast fellowship at Hardees on Crawfordville highway. This is a BYOB event. (Buy Your Own Breakfast)  On Monday April 18^th at 7pm, we will have our regularly scheduled Men’s meeting at the Wakulla County Library located at 4330 Crawfordville Highway.
                At our last meeting we looked at Matthew 7. Jesus warns us that false prophets may appear religious outwardly, but they are ravenous wolves in sheep’s clothing. He goes on to say, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. ²² Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ ²³ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’’  
                In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus gives us an illustration of the final judgment. In James 1:22-25, Jesus tells us that only those who do the will of the Father will enter in the kingdom of heaven. This scripture warns us to be doers of the word and not hearers only. Are you a doer of the word? Do you know God’s word and what He expects from you?
                In our next meeting we will talk about the greatest commandment, Love. We will look at some basic questions such as what is love and some deeper questions such as how do we love our wives as Christ loved the church. We will look at 1 Corinthians 13 and look at what practical ways can we apply it to our lives. For those who can’t make it to the meetings, but would like to be involved, I have an assignment for you. Email me one practical life example of the following characteristics of love.
Love is patient.                                   Love is kind.                                         Love does not envy.
Love does not boast.                          Love is not proud.                                Love does not dishonor others.
Love is not self-seeking.                     Love is not easily angered.                    Love keeps no record of wrongs.
Love does not delight in evil.              Love rejoices with the truth.                  Love always protects.
Love always trusts.                           Love always hopes.                            Love always perseveres. For those who took the challenge and answered the questions in my previous email, here are the scripture references.  The questions below are just a few of the basic fundamental principles of Christianity. How can we obey God’s word, if we don’t know what it says? How can we be a witness to the lost if we don’t know the scriptures on which our faith is based upon?
What must one do to be saved? Roman 10:8-13.
Can someone go to church all their life and still not go to heaven? Matthew 7:22-24 and Matthew 25:31-46.
What is the greatest commandment? Matt 22:36-38, Mark 12:29-31, Luke 10:26-28.
How do we love God? John 14:15-24, John 15:9-11, 1 John 2:2-5.
Who is our neighbor and how do we love them? Luke 10:25-37, 1 Corinthians 13, Ephesians 5:1-2.
What is God’s commandments concerning our wives and children? Ephesians 5:25-33, Colossians 3:19-21,
                 Hebrews 12:5-11, Proverbs 22:6, Ephesians 6:4
Men if you are not in a bible study or actively searching God’s word, please come out to our next meeting. For those who are unable to make the meetings, you can follow along through the emails. I believe God desires to fill us with his word, wisdom, and understanding, and teach us how applies it in our lives. (Doers of the word.) Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is a ministry where Christian men from all denominations can come together and be transformed by God’s word. Please come out and participate in this vital ministry.
Thank you and God bless you.
Andre White

Apr 4, 2011

Greetings brothers in Christ,
                I know we have had a long break but it is time to get back on track.  Monday April 3^rd at 7pm will be our 1^st meeting of the month. As I prayed about the upcoming meeting, I sensed the urgency for Christian men to be educated and equipped for God’s work. I challenge each of you to answer the following questions and email me your answers. (Ladies you can get in on this challenge also.)

What must someone do to be saved?
What are God’s commandments?
What is the greatest commandment?
How do we love God?
What is God’s commandments concerning our wives and children?(Please give examples)

In the next few months we will be diving deep into God’s word concerning His commandments and how they apply to our lives. The following two scriptures expresses how vitally important it is to know God’s word and to obey it. Matthew 7:22-24 and Matthew 25:31-46.

Men I encourage you all to come out to tonight’s meeting. Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is not just a time for men to come together to eat and fellowship. Our desire is that all men both young and old will be transformed by God’s word in our meetings. If you are not in a bible study, please come out and participate in this vital ministry.

Thank you and God bless you.

Andre White

 Mon, Jan 17, 2011

Nov 2nd, 2009

Greetings once again from Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, 

Greetings brothers,

  We have changed our scheduled meetings from weekly to bi-monthly.  We will continue to meet at the library at 7pm on the 1^st and 3^rd Mondays of each month. Our study for November  will be the “Steps to Becoming a Godly Man”. Before we can be godly husbands and fathers, we must be godly men. We will have light

 Snacks/refreshments for all that attend. We hope to see you there.

 God bless you,

Andre White
Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla

Website- http://www.byhisgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla/

Phone 545-8753

Oct 19th, 2009

    As many of you know, Steve Smith, the founder of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla went home to be with the Lord August 3rd, 2009. Although he accepted the promotion, his desire is that his dream would live on and God’s work of serving Wakulla County would continue. I believe everyone in Wakulla County shares his dreams and each person has done what they could with the resources available to them. In our attempt to re-organize Men’s Fraternity, we discovered that there are many groups, organizations and individuals diligently working to serve the needs of Wakulla County. How awesome would it be if the resources were able to communicate with each other and the community and worked together to meet the needs of the county? We would like to take the first step towards making this a reality.  On the 19th of October 2009, we are hosting a Wakulla County Christian Leadership meeting. We are asking for one representative from all of the groups, clubs, and organizations that serve Wakulla County to attend. We are also asking that the pastor, Men’s Group leader, or a representative from every Christian Church in Wakulla County to attend. At this meeting we will attempt to establish a means of communications between all the organizations and churches in the county. We believe that this meeting would be the 1st step towards uniting Wakulla County as a county for Christ. Please pass this information on to as many people as you can. I believe if everyone does their part we can have 100% participation. To accommodate all that will attend we would like each attendee, church and organization to fill out the registration form (click here for form).

June 29^th, 2009

Folks I apologize to you for not writing the News & Up-dates before this date. Seems once again I made a trip to the hospital and missed some important activities. My stay had been from June 8^th thru June 20^th, and am currently in recuperation status . I want to thank each of you who called, sent cards and especially prayed for my recovery and my family as well as those of you who stopped by to visit. Obviously, as a result of my recent stay where they implanted a biventricular pacemaker along with minor heart surgery I will be somewhat out of commission for a while. 

But as God’s work does not and should not stop just because one person becomes incapacitated there is still work in this ministry that needs to be done. Our thanks to the folks at Sopchoppy United Methodist Church and their Youth Group, for stepping up ‘mid-stream’ to complete a mission project in Sopchoppy in my absence. The recipient family was blessed as were those involved in the project. Also, to those men who picked up the slack in our Care to Share Food Distribution Project by checking on and distributing the food & bread to those area Food Pantries. In addition, our thanks goes out to those who stepped up to the plate in time of need for the Men’s Fellowship Breakfast hosted by the Men’s Ministry of FBC-Crawfordville. 

I want to remind you once again about our 3^rd Saturday Men’s Fellowship Breakfast, (July 18^th), at 8:00 AM to be held in the Christian Life Center at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville. It’s open to all men regardless if you’re affiliated with any church or not, it’s a great way for us men to inter-connect with each other and help folks too. The food is always good and the fellowship is great, and that’s when we talk about what’s going on. I’m hoping to introduce a couple of new concepts for ministry. One is called “Sons of Virtue” where fathers can connect with their sons in a special on-going way and the other is “Bmen on Mission” where men can connect with folks with a need and meet those needs as a team while building comradery within the team. 

Our Thursday night gatherings Outback behind Cornerstone Ministries have been temporarily suspended. We are in need of a power pole and a licensed Electrician to move the outside breaker box before we can continue meeting there. If you can help out, please give me a call. 

Our Sunday night gatherings @ First Baptist Church-Crawfordville are also in limbo until I can get back on my feet and work things out with that. We will continue to have the 3^rd Saturday Men’s Fellowship Breakfasts. I wouldn’t mind moving that around to different churches each month, even to a supper on a different night where that church could host men from MFoW. 

REMEMBER: News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen. Not everything in Men’s Fraternity is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities. The pay might not be great, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

May 5^th , 2009

Please note this months Fellowship Breakfast (May 16^th) will be held in the “Old Fellowship Hall” at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville instead of the CLC.  (Due to a previously scheduled WMU (Women’s Missionary Union) Prayer gathering in the CLC) We will have the breakfast from 8-8:30 a.m. and then disperse to several mission projects throughout our community.  We have a handicap ramp to finish and several Senior Citizen tasks to work on.  We could sure use your help if you’re available that day.

To give you a couple of updates on some things that have been happening through Men’s Fraternity; (unfortunately) I was in the hospital the day David Dusek came to town with the Rough Cut Men presentation so I missed it, but I understand there were about 20 men & boys in attendance.  From what I’ve heard the presentation was great and much was learned from it.  Our thanks to Rick Parks for jotting down some Key Points of the presentation:

·          A lot of men are trapped/limited by what dad said or did

·          Sometimes we hold on to things in the past too long

·          Regardless of where we are, we need to finish strong

·          VFR - Visual Flight Rules - pilots fly by what they can see/IFR is Instrument Flight Rules...flying by faith in your instruments...we need to have faith in God and use more IFR with God.

·          Work and play is all for nothing - chasing the wind.

·          There are good times and bad times - God is not taken by surprise - he is not caught off guard for God knows the plans I have for you, for prosperity, not harm.

·          Legacy - what impact are you having on your legacy.

·          From Gideon - the armor you wear is forged out of your past experiences.  Everything you have experienced is seed to sew into another man.

·          God is very intentional - animals on the ark were 2x2 - need support of another guy to watch your back for 360 degree coverage - If you fancy yourself a church going guy, it is not a question of "if" you are going to get hit but when.

·          Once you start talking and meeting and keep talking and meeting, but don't have a watered down/playing church version...bring out the Warrior that has gotten lost.

He showed four movie clips and talked about work and play as folly chasing after the wind...The main thing was keeping the main thing the main thing...God, family, church, work...priorities...he talked about leaving a legacy built on eternal things...Just looking at those things can cause a guy to do some soul searching. From what I see, much of what was said falls right in line with what Dr. Robert Lewis (the Quest for Authentic Manhood study) has been saying over the past several months in our study.  As I look over that list I can sure relate to much of it, and with some deep thought, it could sure make a difference in my life.

The Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference in Panama City was great. The men attending came home with several new idea’s about conducting a Ministry to Men. The success of any Men’s Ministry depends on the participation of the men involved. We encourage men to participate in the Men’s Ministry of their church and become involved in the Ministry to Men (and boys) through participation in Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  Together, we CAN make a difference.

The “Care to Share” food collection & distribution project is underway.  Several area grocery stores have agreed to be ‘drop off’ points for the project; Wal-Mart in Crawfordville, the Sopchoppy IGA and the Woodville IGA.  Each of those stores were enthusiastic about participating and helping feed our community, they certainly deserve our thanks.  There’s more information on our website and on Wakulla.com for those interested in how it works.  We have had some good media coverage on the project and hopefully expect some good results.

I continue to get calls from people in our community that need help in various areas, it seems the word is getting out about Men’s Fraternity helping people more than it’s getting out that we need help to complete some of these mission projects.  If your Men’s group or individual men could help out on some of these projects that would be great.  Sometimes I have to turn away needs or delay them greatly because I can’t keep asking the same men to work every weekend, we really need a larger pool to work from.  If your Sunday School Class or Small Group is looking for a project to support, we could use some financial assistance on these smaller jobs, some of these folks can’t afford the cost of a new door, or some floor coverings, etc.

April 13^th , 2009

First up is this reminder that the Monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast is this Saturday morning (April 18^th ) at 8:00 AM to be held at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville. (check the main page for directions) Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla (MFoW) in conjunction with the Men’s Ministry of First Baptist Church of Crawfordville, are hosting guest speaker David Dusek following our regularly scheduled 3^rd Saturday Men’s Fellowship Breakfast.   Dusek will present a powerful presentation entitled ROUGH CUT MEN.

Dusek, a Men's Ministry Coach and Trainer, and member of the Man in the Mirror Field Network says, “This is not your typical presentation but an experience using dozens of Hollywood movie clips, like "Saving Private Ryan", "The Grid Iron Gang", "Armageddon" and even "Shrek" and "Over the Hedge."’

This event uses no Power Point slides but movie clips coupled with personal testimony and relevant Biblical principles to equip men to look at their lives as valuable and important.  The event will focus on a few select topics and may range from dealing with greed, stewardship, lust, character and integrity, to leaving a lasting legacy, accountability and identity.  Men will leave this event with a new identity.  One who God will use as is. 

Dusek will present ROUGH CUT MEN following the Men's Breakfast.  The breakfast, open to all men, will begin at 8:00 a.m. in the Christian Life Center behind Crawfordville FBC with Dusek presenting from 9-11 a.m.  Talk with the men in your church, your men’s group leader, and grab a neighbor, friend or co-worker and join us for breakfast this Saturday, April 18^th at 8:00 a.m.

Men of all faiths are encouraged to attend.
 

The “Care to Share” food collection program is about to hit the area grocery stores.  We’re in the final ‘setting up’ stages and getting the containers in the stores.  Currently we have the Super Wal-Mart in Crawfordville, the Woodville IGA, and the Sopchoppy Grocery Store that have agreed to participate in the “Care to Share” food collection program. The program provides for citizens to share with those in need by sharing groceries.  Area grocery stores have agreed to be ‘drop-off points’ for the program in an effort to help those families in need.  The way the  “Care to Share”  program works is a customer can purchase food items that are for sale (ie: buy one get one free or other non-perishable food items); keep one and place the other in a container or designated grocery cart at the store to share with someone in need.   Non-perishable food items like canned corn, beans, peas, potatoes, canned meats like Tuna, Chicken, Ravioli w/meat, Spaghetti w/meat sauce and such,  boxed goods like pasta, rice, Mac & Cheese, Hamburger, Chicken or Tuna Helper, and such non-perishable foods could be added to help prepare a filling meal.  Food items & Gift Cards would be picked up each week by Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla or designated ‘food pantry personnel’ and distributed to the area Food Pantry’s within the geographic area they were obtained from for distribution.  (If the grocery store where you shop does not have a “Care to Share” drop off, ask for it so we may include them as well)

Persons wishing to make a donation or contribution directly to the Care to Share Program could give (cash or check) directly to the Food Pantry of your choice or through your church and designate it for the “Care to Share Program”.  This would then be distributed to local area Food Pantries according to need and citizens served.

Also available on our website is the location of area food pantry’s and their contact information.  (if the store where you shop is not participating, ask them about it as the more stores we have involved, the better the program will provide for those in need)

Neighbors Helping Neighbors:  We continue to receive requests from seniors, handicapped folks & single Moms for help in many areas.  Some are minor and some require outside assistance.  A lot of times these can be handled easily & quickly if we had the ‘daytime’ help.  The task might be as easy as changing a light bulb or picking up a donation and taking it to another location.  If you’re available or would be available, PLEASE let me know so I can call on you if needed.  (Remember the scripture:(Matt 25:31-thru the end of chapter) about helping others). Some of these projects are already funded but need the manpower to handle the tasks.  With our limited manpower it is difficult to ask the men to give up every weekend from their families to do the jobs.  We do need men to step up and volunteer time & talent to help those in need, Neighbors helping Neighbors.  Are there men in your church or organization that would be willing to step up and help in these areas of need?

“The Quest for Authentic Manhood” study is winding to a close, we’re on session 21 of 24.  We will be making a decision on the Summer schedule in the next few weeks, so if you have input, let us know.

Remember the “Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference” in Panama City is Saturday, April 25^th.  To view a video or for details on the conference go to www.IronSharpensIron.net and click on the location star or April 25^th, Panama City, FL.  We’ve not had enough men to pre-sign-up on the 2 day package so we’ll be going over on Saturday morning and returning Saturday evening after the conference.  We can still offer the pre-registration rate of $39.00 ($29.00 student rate (13-22) if you pre-register with MFoW by Saturday April 18^th .   

March 13^th , 2009

First up is this reminder that the Monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast is next Saturday morning (March 21^st) at 8:00 AM to be held at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville. Following the breakfast we are planning to tackle another Ramp Project for a local Hospice patient.  Details will be available at the breakfast or by contacting me if you’re unable to make the breakfast.  We could use your help!   

As a joint effort of Men’s Fraternity and the Men’s Ministry of FBC-Crawfordville, along with individual members and groups from other churches, the Fellowship Breakfast does allow us to share what our individual church’s Men’s Ministry’s are doing and seek to help and support each other for larger projects.  The breakfast is open to all men & boys in our community (age 8-80+/-) regardless of faith or church affiliation. There’s no charge for the breakfast, but we do have ‘donation containers’ available to help offset the cost.

I have had considerable interest from single parent Moms who recognize the need for their sons to have a male influence in their sons’ lives and are interested in our group.  I do encourage them to bring them out to the breakfast (sons only).  We need Dads who can bring their son’s and ‘buddy up’ with these boys who they probably know from school anyhow, and help to be that male influence in that boys life.  Ask your sons to ask those boys to attend and then ‘bring them’! We can also use ‘Surrogate Dads’ & ‘Granddads’ to help in this area of need.  Remember also, those Dads from single parent households who can use some support and friendship from other men with kids, buddy up with them too.

The Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center Outdoor Experience was a great success.  I don’t know how many were there but Riley Harvey from FBC-Crawfordville took over about 20 folks and they had a great time.  It was a great Family Outing!!

The 1^st Annual “Jesus River Festival” in Sopchoppy promises to be another great family outing.  The Festival will be held at the City Park in Sopchoppy on March 28^th .  Activities will begin at 9:00 AM with a variety of Christian Music to begin around 10.  There’s no charge for the event so you can attend throughout the day, bring a blanket or a chair & a cooler and enjoy the day.  Hot dogs & hamburger plates will be available for sale.  Check out their website at: www.JesusRiverFest.com for more information or  contact: Nathan Lewis at thorngil2@aol.com for details.

“The Quest for Authentic Manhood” study, which takes place 2  times each week, at two different locations (see main webpage for times &  locations), is on going as we continue in the “Biblical Definition of Manhood”.  Join us at either location.

The “Care to Share” food collection program we mentioned in previous News & Up-dates is underway.  We’ve contacted area grocery stores and most have agreed to participate in the program (a couple are still waiting to hear back from corporate).  Click on “Care to Share Program” for details on the program.  (it will take us a week or so to get it in the stores and going so watch for it and help by participating).  Also available on our website is the location of area food pantry’s and their contact information.  If you know of someone in need of that service please pass that information on to them.

David Dusek from “Reaching Every Man” will be our Guest Speaker at our next Men’s Fellowship Breakfast (April 18^th).  David will be presenting “Rough Cut Men”, an experience using dozens of Hollywood movie clips to realize we’re not alone in the challenge of our manhood journey and to equip us to deal with those challenges.  Mark your calendar for that date, you won’t want to miss it. 

Also following that Saturday, the next week-end is the “Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference” in Panama City on April 25^th.  There is a video about the conference at the conference link and I urge you to take a look.  The conference is Saturday, April 25^th, but we have a package that will allow us to go over on Friday night and attend a pre-conference rally and stay over for the conference saturday including meals & transportation for a very attractive price (click here for details). You can sign up for the conference at the breakfast this week (3/21) or contact me for arrangements.  (only pre-registered, pre-paid men can get in on the package deal due to our having to pre-pay our reservations. Deadline for this package is April 15^th,  we do need a minimum of 10 signed up for the package to get this special)

Neighbors Helping Neighbors:  We continue to receive requests from seniors, handicapped folks & single Moms for help in many areas.  Some are minor and some require outside assistance.  A lot of times these can be handled easily & quickly if we had the ‘daytime’ help.  The task might be as easy as changing a light bulb or picking up a donation and taking it to another location.  If you’re available or would be available, PLEASE let me know so I can call on you if needed.  (Remember the scripture:(Matt 25:31-thru the end of chapter) about helping others).

Needs Pending: 

·         Entry door repairs and some reconstruction to existing handicap ramp.  Senior Citizen in a wheelchair. – Panacea
    o         (Awaiting financing & approval from Ability first)

·         Handicap ramp to be moved to new home location.  Hospice patient -  Crawfordville
    o         (Anticipate this Saturday (3/21) following the breakfast- Hospice funded project)

·         Ramp installation for Grandmother with mobility concerns and multiple health problems.- N. Wakulla County (Hwy 363)
    o         (Awaiting financing & approval from Ability first)

·          Multiple repairs (MH); flooring, weather-stripping, plumbing & A/C repairs. 2 senior citizens wheelchair confined – 
    o         (trying to connect w/Men’s Group in Woodville area)

·         Mobile home bathroom floor repair.  Resident wheelchair bound.  Crawfordville
       o         (seeking another crew to help here, so as not to work present crew to death.  This project already funded)

Some of these projects are already funded but need the manpower to handle the tasks.  With our limited manpower it is difficult to ask the men to give up every weekend from their families to do the jobs.  We do need men to step up and volunteer time & talent to help those in need, Neighbors helping Neighbors.  Are there men in your church or organization that would be willing to step up and help in these areas of need?

REMEMBER: News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen. Not everything in Men’s Fraternity is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities.  The pay might not be great, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

February 25^th , 2009

First let me extend my apologies, I thought this went out on the 16^th of February, but just realized it had not, so here’s the up-dated version.

I want to express our appreciation to those of you who responded to our plea for an electrician last month.  We had several responses and offers to help.  Our thanks to Sam Hall (Helping Hands Home Repair) who responded and took care of the need, the family was very grateful.  Incidentally, the request was picked up by the Wakulla News as a News Item for a need and we had several additional responses to that.   Thanks Wakulla News.

The Monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast held at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville on the 3^rd Saturday of each month has proven to be a great way for us to get together as a larger group and interact with each other.  We had 34 men, boys & youth in attendance at our February 21^st meeting. It does allow us to share what our men’s ministry’s are doing and seek to help and support each other for larger projects.  As a joint effort of Men’s Fraternity and the Men’s Ministry of FBC the Fellowship Breakfast is open to all men in our community (age 8-80+/-), regardless of faith or church affiliation. We’re hopeful that more church groups and individuals would participate so we could be unified in our efforts to serve, currently we have about 7 churches represented.  For smaller congregations, or even individuals not affiliated with any particular church or congregation, this breakfast affords the opportunity to get connected with other Christian men in our community.  Please remember those boys from single parent households; kids without dads’, with ‘absent dads’, or with ‘uninvolved dads’ in the households that we can reach out to and bring them along.  The breakfast is held each 3^rd Saturday morning, 8-9:30 a.m. in the Christian Life Center (CLC) of the First Baptist Church in Crawfordville.  There’s no charge for the breakfast, but we do have ‘donation containers’ available to help offset the cost.  (next upcoming Fellowship Breakfast: March 21^st ). 

I understand several of you attended the FMI “Reaching Every Man” Training at TRBC with David Dusek.  You’ll be interested in knowing we’re planning on having him come and speak at our April Men’s Fellowship Breakfast on April 18^th .  (More details on that as the date approaches).

The Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center in Lloyd is planning an Outdoor Experience on March 7^th  Click here for details.  Riley Harvey from FBC-Crawfordville is heading up a group to go over for the day from Crawfordville.  You can reach him at 926-8131 or 228-6798  for details.

1^st Annual “Jesus River Festival” will be held at the City Park in Sopchoppy on March 28^th .  It’s to be a multi-denominational experience that promises to be fun for the entire family.  Check out their website at: www.JesusRiverFest.com for more information.  You can download & print a flier and post it in your church for your families to attend.  Contact Nathan Lewis at thorngil2@aol.com for details.

“The Quest for Authentic Manhood” study has resumed with the second half of the series The “Biblical Definition of Manhood”(see website for times &  locations).  If you’ve missed the first half, this would be a great place to pick it up.

Help with food & groceries: We are just about ready to launch our “Care to Share” food collection program Click here for more details. The program allows people to purchase non-perishable food items at area grocery stores and place them in a ‘designated “Care to Share” basket’ at that grocery store.  Food items would be picked up each week and distributed to ‘local’ area Food Pantry’s for distribution to needy families.  A “Change-up Program” would also be available to collect monies for Gift Cards to be used for non-alcohol & non-tobacco products such as fruits & vegetables, toiletry items and such.  This program is also designed to help those in need.  We hope to have a list of these Food Pantry locations for our next News & Up-dates.  Right now what we have is: First Baptist Church-Crawfordville (926-7896), on Monday nights 7:00 p.m., Crawfordville United Methodist Church (926-7209) on the 4^th Tuesday of each month @6 p.m., and Promise Land Ministries (926-3281) has another by appointment.  These locations could use monetary donations as well as food/clothing donations if you can help. Cornerstone Ministries also provides food through Angel Food Ministries http://www.csmtoday.com/angelfood.htm , and the Distribution location for the SHARE Program is the Wakulla County Senior Center, (926-7146).  If you are aware of other locations that are currently distributing food and/or clothing in Wakulla County please let us know. 

As part of our planned activities for 2009, we are planning on having a group to attend the “Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference” in Panama City on April 25^th, 2009. Click here for video (Many churches in the area have received a ‘Promotion packet’ from “FMI” (Florida Men of Integrity) about the conference.  Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is planning on having a group to go over Friday night for fellowship; transportation, accommodations, food, Pre-Conference Event and the Conference for less than $100.00 each.  (first come first saved w/paid registration-limited space)(individual early registration begins @ $48.00) Some churches will be able to attend as a group, while there may be individuals wishing to attend with no group affiliation and can plan to go with Men’s Fraternity as we will be having a mixed group attending.  Through fellowship and participation in Men’s Fraternity activities men get to bond with one another and can then participate with familiar friendly faces during activities.  We will have a group and individual ‘sign up’ for those planning on attending.  Please e-mail me or call me, (unless you’ve already signed up on a registration form), to let me know your intention on going so we can figure the room & transportation.  For more on the conference go to: www.ironsharpensiron.net or www.FloridaMenOfIntegrity.org or visit our website under conferences.

Needs Pending: 

·         Entry door repairs and some reconstruction to existing handicap ramp.  Senior Citizen in a wheelchair. – Panacea

·         Handicap ramp to be moved to new home location.  Hospice patient -  Crawfordville

·         Ramp installation for Grandmother with mobility concerns and multiple health problems.- N. Wakulla County (Hwy 363)

·         Multiple repairs (MH); flooring, weather-stripping, plumbing & A/C repairs. 2 senior citizens wheelchair confined – Woodville

·         Mobile home bathroom floor repair.  Resident wheelchair bound.  Crawfordville

These projects are already funded but need the manpower to handle the tasks.  With our limited manpower it is difficult to ask the men to give up every weekend from their families to do the jobs.  We do need men to step up and volunteer time & talent to help those in need, Neighbors helping Neighbors.  Are there men in your church or organization that would be willing to step up and help in these area’s of need?

 Volunteer Wakulla Disaster Relief & Recovery in cooperation with the American Red Cross is seeking volunteers to be a part of the Volunteer Disaster Action Team (DAT).  An orientation and training is being scheduled for those interested in participating in this needed area of service to our community.  For more information on what’s involved in this activity (please) visit our website at: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla under Disaster Relief News or.

January 9^th, 2009

We trust that each of you and your families had an enjoyable Christmas celebration and happy new year. Choose wisely the choices and decisions you make in the coming year, Proverbs 1:19 tells us “so are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain: it takes away the life of its owners”. Take time to seek God.

First up I want to thank each of you that participated in the Thanksgiving and/or Christmas food/gift projects in your church or school, many needy families’ needs were met because of your participation, ‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors’. 

Next, I want to remind you about the Monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast held at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville on the 3^rd Saturday of each month.  (next upcoming; next Saturday, Jan 17^th).  As a joint effort of Men’s Fraternity and the Men’s Ministry of FBC the Fellowship Breakfast is open to all men in our community (age 8-80+/-), regardless of faith or church affiliation. We’re hopeful that more church groups and individuals would participate so we could be unified in our efforts to serve.  For smaller congregations, or even individuals not affiliated with any particular church or congregation, this breakfast affords the opportunity to get connected with other Christian men in our community.  Please remember those boys from single parent households; kids without dads’, with ‘absent dads’, or with ‘uninvolved dads’ in the households that we can reach out to and bring them along.  The breakfast is held each 3^rd Saturday morning, 8-9:30 a.m. in the Christian Life Center (CLC) of the First Baptist Church in Crawfordville.    Plan to attend.

On Saturday, January 31^st, FMI (Florida Men of Integrity) is having a “Reaching Every Man” training workshop for those interested in Men’s Ministry to be held at Thomasville Road Baptist Church.  The ½ day workshop cost is $39.00, including workbook and continental breakfast.  For more information on this training go to www.reachingeveryman.com

On February 14^th, the Rotary Club of Wakulla County is having the 11^th Annual Wakulla Valentine’s Celebration and Parade at Hudson Park and we’ve been invited to participate again.  We’re planning on having an information booth and hopefully a float in the Parade.  We’re hoping to be able to construct a ramp on the float and have some of our ramp/project recipients on the float as well. We will be asking for help & volunteers for both so please be thinking about this.  This is one of the biggest events in Wakulla County and will be well attended.  (Details at the breakfast.)

The year behind and ahead: Already this year we have responded to 2 needs in our community and have 4 needs pending; 2 ramps, 1 security alert system install and one bathroom floor replacement.  Last year we responded to 12 maintenance/repair/ramp projects and 9 Disaster related incidents.  More than 50 men participated representing 8 different churches in our community.  There are needs in our community and opportunities for us to share the love of God, we need men to step up to the plate and use their God given abilities and talents to help those in need.

Clothing needed. With the economy being what it is, many families are in need of food and clothing and we can help.  Many of us have clothes in our closets that we no longer wear and can donate them to the Food & Clothing Bank @ First Baptist Church-Crawfordville for free distribution to those in need. Call the church office for details: 926-7896.  (clothes should be clean and in good repair) 

Help with food & groceries: We are currently working with the County Extension Office in locating Food Bank and/or clothing distribution locations in our county. If you are aware of locations that are currently distributing food and/or clothing in Wakulla County please contact Shelly @ 926-3931.  Currently we are aware of a few; First Baptist Church-Crawfordville (926-7896), on Monday nights 7:00 p.m., Crawfordville United Methodist Church (926-7209) on the 4^th Tuesday of each month @6 p.m., and Promise Land Ministries (926-3281) has another by appointment.  These locations could use monetary donations as well as food/clothing donations if you can help. Cornerstone Ministries also provides food through Angel Food Ministries http://www.csmtoday.com/angelfood.htm , and the Distribution location for the SHARE Program is the Wakulla County Senior Center, (926-7146).  There will be a meeting for persons interested in this outreach opportunity on January 29^th @ the Extension Office (Livestock pavilion) at 5:00 pm.

Volunteer Wakulla Disaster Relief & Recovery in cooperation with the American Red Cross is seeking volunteers to be a part of the Volunteer Disaster Action Team (DAT).  An orientation and training is being scheduled for those interested in participating in this needed area of service to our community.  For more information on what’s involved in this activity (please) visit our website at: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla under Disaster Relief News or www.redcross.org/disaster_svcs.html .

As part of our planned activities for 2009, we are planning on having a group to attend the “Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference” in Panama City on April 25^th, 2009.  (Many churches in the area have received a ‘Promotion packet’ from “FMI” (Florida Men of Integrity) about the conference.)  Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is planning on having a group to go over Friday night for fellowship; transportation, accommodations, food and the Conference for less than $100.00 each.  (first come first saved w/paid registration-limited space)(individual early registration begins @ $48.00) Some churches will be able to attend as a group, while there may be individuals wishing to attend with no group affiliation and can plan to go with Men’s Fraternity as we will be having a mixed group attending.  Through fellowship and participation in Men’s Fraternity activities men get to bond with one another and can then participate with familiar friendly faces during activities.  We will have a group and individual ‘sign up’ for those planning on attending.  For more on the conference go to: www.ironsharpensiron.net or www.FloridaMenOfIntegrity.org or visit our website under conferences.

December 10^th , 2008

Happy Holidays is a most appropriate greeting; But Merry Christmas implies “Jesus is the reason for the season”;

We trust each of you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving with family & friends and was able to give a heartfelt “Thanks” for the blessings God has given you.  I would remind you that not every family is blessed in the same way.  Some are blessed in abundance while others are thankful to just have a roof over their head and food on the table….but yet, some don’t even have that.  So I would mention to you, look around in your circle of friends & neighbors, and family too, perhaps there’s someone you could share a meal with or even a gift or two for the family.  In scripture, (James 2:15-17) it addresses helping others in need.

Along this line, I do want to give you an update on the Thanksgiving Food Donation project that several churches and schools participated in.  There were 43 needy families that received a turkey and all the traditional fix’n’s for Thanksgiving thanks to the generosity of so many in our community.  As an additional note to that, you can always donate non-perishable foods (and financial contributions) to the Food Bank at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville.  Each Monday evening food is distributed to many needy families in our community through the Food Bank Program.

As an extension of the Thanksgiving Food Donation project, there are 40+ families that are being helped through the Christmas Gifts for Needy Families project coordinated by First Baptist Church-Crawfordville along with other churches in our community.

As mentioned last month, we had two projects that were completed by men giving of their time and talent to folks in need.  This month we have two more projects pending, both are ramp projects, one is through Hospice the other is in need of a sponsor.  We’ll probably get started on them right after the first of the year.  If you can see your way clear to lend a hand, it sure would be appreciated.  Many of these folks are un-churched and in need of a saving knowledge of Jesus.  We have an opportunity of ministering to them right here in our own backyard, we don’t even have to leave the county.

The Monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast held at First Baptist Church was a great success.  We had 27 men & youth in attendance representing 5 different churches.  As a joint effort of Men’s Fraternity and the Men’s Ministry of FBC the Fellowship Breakfast is open to all men in our community, regardless of faith or church affiliation. We’re hopeful that more church groups would participate so we could be unified in our efforts as men of the Family of God, serving God, Family & Community, one man at a time.  For smaller congregations, or even individuals not affiliated with any particular church or congregation, this breakfast affords the opportunity to get connected with other Christian men in our community.  The breakfast is held each 3^rd Saturday morning, 8-9:30 a.m. in the Christian Life Center (CLC) of the First Baptist Church in Crawfordville.  Our next breakfast will be December 20^th.  Plan to attend.

As part of our planned activities for 2009, we are planning on having a group to attend the “Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference” in Panama City on April 25^th, 2009.  (Many churches in the area have received a ‘Promotion packet’ from “FMI” (Florida Men of Integrity) about the conference.  Some churches will be able to attend as a group, while there may be individuals wishing to attend with no group affiliation to go with, that’s where Men’s Fraternity comes in, as we will be having a mixed group attending.  Through fellowship and participation in Men’s Fraternity activities men get to bond with one another and can then participate with familiar friendly faces during activities.  We will have a group and individual ‘sign up’ for those planning on attending.  We are also considering a Friday night ‘stay over’ and van pool for those interested, (let me know your interest).  Plans are in the working for that.  For more on the conference go to: www.ironsharpensiron.net or www.FloridaMenOfIntegrity.org or visit our website under conferences.

Also, from FMI (Florida Men of Integrity) is a “Reaching Every Man” training workshop for those interested in Men’s Ministry to be held at Thomasville Road Baptist Church on Saturday, January 31^st.  The ½ day workshop cost is $39.00, including workbook and continental breakfast.  For more information on this training go to www.reachingeveryman.com  

Volunteer Wakulla Disaster Relief & Recovery in cooperation with the American Red Cross is seeking volunteers to be a part of the Volunteer Disaster Action Team (DAT).  An orientation and training will be held in January for those interested in participating in this needed area of service to our community.  For more information on what’s involved in this activity visit our website at: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla under Disaster Relief News or www.redcross.org/disaster_svcs.html .

November 21^st , 2008

Well it’s been a little while since I’ve written, I wanted to give you a little space and time to (hopefully) think about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla news & happenings.  In my last writing I mentioned we had the material to take care of two projects and we were going to move ahead with them.  As it turned out, we were able to complete both jobs.  We had 11 men from 3 different churches show up and 1 unchurched individual, all pitching in as Neighbors Helping Neighbors working and sharing side by side.  We had a great time of fun, fellowship and accomplishment.  The unchurched guy wanted to know how we could have so much fun and fellowship and things run so smoothly.  We told him we just showed up and God took care of the rest.  God had a strange way of ministering to that family and nobody preached!  The lady across town was very grateful to get her roof patched so it wouldn’t leak anymore when it rained.  Both families expressed their appreciation that men would come together and meet needs as a service to the community and do it in Christian love without charge. 

I personally want to thank each of you men for taking time from your families on that Saturday to reach out and be a Neighbor Helping a Neighbor and letting God use you as His hands & feet to reach those families.  I know each of you were blessed for your efforts.

Well it’s rounding the end of the month and time for our ‘Last Thursday of the Month Dinner’ but since it falls on Thanksgiving Day we’re encouraging you to have Thanksgiving with your family.  If you know of someone who will be alone this Thanksgiving, invite them over for what ever you’re having, they’ll be grateful and you can be thankful you’ve got enough to share.  Next month (December) we’ll forego the ‘Last Thursday of the Month Dinner’ ‘cause it’ll be Christmas and I know ‘yule’ want to stay home.

Talking about shar’n, if you missed our Quarterly Family Dinner last month you missed a good time.  We planned for 10 and God sent 22 and multiplied the food with one bowl of chili left over.  The movie was heart touching and the fellowship was great, we welcomed another new family into the fold.  Our next Quarterly Family Dinner is scheduled for January 29^th , so mark your new 2009 calendars now so you don’t forget.

At last account the Thanksgiving Food Donation project was going great. Several area churches participated as well as several schools in our county collected food for the project.  There’s a work day TODAY beginning at 10:00 and distribution is scheduled for this Saturday, November 22^nd.  You can contact First Baptist Church-Crawfordville @926-7896 if you can help.  Any non-perishable food left over from this drive will be added to the Christmas Food project next month.

Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is joining with the Men’s Ministry of First Baptist Church-Crawfordville to hold a Monthly Men’s Fellowship Breakfast each 3^rd Saturday morning for men & boys of our community.  Since the work we do is a joint effort, reaching out to men in our community, it’s only natural it would be a joint effort.  We’d like to meet with your church’s men’s group in a similar fashion when you meet, that way we could reach more men & families in our community and “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”.  It would open a greater outreach for God’s Kingdom.  Give me a call and let’s talk.

Another date I’d like you to put on your 2009 Calendar is April 25^th.  There will be an “Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference” in Panama City on that date and we’re planning to attend.  Hopefully, our church community will be able to come together and support that conference by our attendance.  The outcome and benefit to our families and churches will mean a great deal to our community.  We’ll have more on this next month.  To find out more go to  www.FloridaMenOfIntegrity.org . (a Friday night ‘stay-over’ and ‘van-pool” is under consideration for those interested, contact me)

As this year begins to come to a close, we only have 3 more Sessions before the end of the year.  Starting January 8^th we will begin the 2^nd half of the series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” with a review of the first half and then onward to the Biblical Definition of Manhood and the strides thereafter.  If you’ve missed the first half, this would be a great place to get caught up.

Have a great Thanksgiving.

October 28^th, 2008

Men’s Fraternity News & Up-dates goes out to quite a few people in our community, some via e-mail, some through our Website, and usually at www.Wakulla.com under Clubs & Organizations.  Similar to that of a Radio DJ, just because it goes out doesn’t mean it’s read (or heard).  The only way the DJ knows he’s being heard is when his phone rings in response to a contest or something or feedback from talk on the street.  As with Men’s Fraternity, talk on the street is “we’re doing a great job”, but behind the scenes we’re struggling to get men to step up to the plate and assist with projects of need.  It seems we’re using the same men with each project over & over again.  Could it be that we’re not getting the word out?, or could it be that folks think our organization is so big that we don’t need their help?….Let me answer that question…”WE NEED YOUR HELP”!!  The more men willing to help, the bigger the pool we can draw from and the less each man needs to be called upon.  I don’t know if our News & Up-date e-mails are reaching men or are they just being unopened or deleted.  Your responses will help me know what direction to go in to get the word out.  Thanks.

Last week we mentioned we now have the material to move forward on two projects and we will do that this coming Saturday morning (11/01/08) beginning at 8:00 am.  One project is east of Spring Creek Hwy on Wakulla-Arran Rd and the other is east of 319 on Hwy 267.  Please call me for specifics if you can help: 508-2560.  Remember, even if you can’t climb a ladder or swing a hammer “Go-fors” are a real asset on a job site.

Our ‘Last Thursday of the Month Dinner” is this Thursday evening.  This one is the “QUARTERLY FAMILY DINNER” where the entire family is invited for food, fun & fellowship.  Our Planned menu is chili, rice, corn chips, salad and beverage, you bring the dessert and we’ll share.  (Please call or e-mail me with your count so we can prepare enough for everyone.) Entertainment will be a short movie titled “The Harvest”.  It’s about a farm family and….well, just come out and enjoy the food, fun & fellowship and see the movie for yourself.  Our meetings are open to all men and their families as there is no membership per'se,   Tomorrow  night (10/30/08) @ 6:30 P.M. “Outback” (behind) Cornerstone Ministries.

·        Please remember the Thanksgiving food donations being collected by area churches.  During this particular time the need is greater for families and we that can can step up and help with this need. Check with your church to see if they are participating or contact First Baptist Church of Crawfordville @ 926-7896 for more information.

REMEMBER: News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen.  I want to include this little story about four thoughtful people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. 

There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it.  Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it.  Somebody thought it was Everybody's job.  Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it.  It ended up that Everybody waited for Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.

Not everything in Men’s Fraternity is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities.  The pay might not be good, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

October 22^nd, 2008

This is news well worth sharing!!  Last week I mentioned several needs we had pending and that we were in need of financial assistance on some.  Well, God went to work and got us the approval from Ability 1^st to purchase the material for the repairs on the handicapped access ramp project and Florida Mobile Home Supply, Inc. in Tallahassee provided the Kool Seal needed at their cost less 50%.  What a blessing.  We can now proceed with the needed repairs.

I’d like to get two teams together, one to replace the decking boards on the access ramp and the other to Kool-Seal the roof of the singlewide mobile home.  .  Remember, even if you can’t climb a ladder or swing a hammer “Go-fors” are a real asset on a job site. If you can help please contact me @ 508-2560 or via e-mail so we get the teams working

Our ‘Last Thursday of the Month Dinner” will be coming up next week and I’d like to concentrate on having more of you there at the same time so we can conduct some business that night.  We need some feedback and some direction from you guys to help us move forward in what we’re doing.  Without feedback & direction we’re kind of fumbling along and reacting to things rather than planning some things out in a more organized fashion.  Please put it on your calendar for Thursday, October 30^th, 6:30 P.M. “Outback” (behind) Cornerstone Ministries.   Thanks.

·        And speaking of feedback, last week in the Oct 16^th edition of The Wakulla News, Comment & Opinion section we received some ‘negative feedback’ from a reader to an article written two weeks prior (the 2^nd in a two part series).  Not that it was negative toward Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla but more so toward God and our belief in the Bible as well as condemning the News for promoting ‘this Stone Age, Middle Eastern-inspired garbage’.  In addition, I also received an e-mail from a lady who was ‘appalled by the article’ and wrote to tell me about it.  As she defended her husband to be “a most definitely strong MAN…”, her attack was more at me (the writer of the article) than toward our beliefs, yet found fault with Gods plan of leadership.  While I applaud her for sticking up for her man, it is a shame that Christian men have allowed society to view ‘God’s helper to men’ as subservient or that of lesser value, this is not what scripture teaches.  Rather than discuss it here, (this would be a good topic during our fellowship & meal time) I just want you to know I have addressed the response to the Comment & Opinion section of The News in reply as I’ve had several calls concerning it.

·        Wakulla County Domestic and Sexual Violence Task Force. Reminds us that Domestic and Sexual Violence affects many in our community, many who would never utter a word.  Education and support will go a long way to eradicate this problem.  In conjunction with the Refuge House, the Task Force will be hosting a “CALLING ALL MEN” event. Tuesday. October 28^th @ 5:30 p.m at the Wakulla County Public. Men and women are encouraged to attend and participate in this event to find out what we ‘as men’ can do to help eliminate this injustice.  For more information please contact Cathy @926-9005

·        Please remember the Thanksgiving food donations being collected by area churches.  During this particular time the need is greater for families and we that can can step up and help with this need. Check with your church to see if they are participating or contact First Baptist Church of Crawfordville @ 926-7896 for more information.

REMEMBER: News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen.  Not everything is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities.  The pay might not be good, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

October 15^th, 2008

A special thanks to each of you that have prayed for my wife & I and Men’s Fraternity over the last several weeks.  Some of you are aware of my wife’s recent heart attack and can imagine the turmoil that has sent me into.  I Praise God for His love and intervention during this ordeal.  My wife is at home recuperating after having two Stents implanted in her heart and minimal heart damage.  There are still some other health concerns we’re dealing with but we’re taking them one day at a time and trusting God for His faithfulness.  Trying to pick up and get focused again while taking care of her during this time is a challenge.  Please continue to pray for us and the ministry.

I also want to thank those of you that pitched in to lend a hand on some of those projects we had pending.  A special thanks goes to the RA boys from First Baptist Church-Crawfordville and the men that helped last Wednesday night with that clean up job.  Thanks also to those men who pitched in bright and early Saturday morning to take care of those downed trees at Ms. White’s home and her neighbors.  We had a chance to share Christ’s love in both instances through our labor and our “Why We’re Here…” Gospel tracts.  When you see or hear the responses from people we’ve helped it makes it all worthwhile.  We still have a few projects that need tending to and several more that have come to my attention. 

1.      Topping the list is repairs to a handicapped access ramp at a mobile home on Wakulla-Arran Rd, decking is rotted with large holes in the ramp runway, the structure seems solid but the decking needs replacing badly.  There is a senior woman currently in Rehab for a broken ankle, due to come to come home soon. We have some materials on hand but not adequate to complete the job. .We’ve requested funds from Ability 1^st but their funds are not yet available.  Any financial help would be greatly appreciated so we can get started on this as soon as possible. The need immediate.

2.      The second is a Senior Citizen on Hwy 267   with 3 minor leaks to an older mobile home.  ‘Kool-Seal’ should probably take care of it.. ( we’re also seeking funds for the cost of material: Kool Sea, cost should run around $150.00)

3.      Another is a call I’ve had concerning, a roof leak in a shingled roof Mobile Home on Hill-Green Rd ( I’ve not yet checked this one out, but will try to do so asap)

4.      We’ve had several calls for needs, some too extensive for us to handle and some that could be taken care of with minimal effort.

If you can assist in these or any of our projects, please contact me by e-mail or phone so I can put together Teams to assist on these projects.  I’m trying not to call on the same men each week to allow them time with their families.  Once I have a pool of men to work from I can set up times & locations and notify you.  If you can help on that project great, if not, perhaps another at another time.

In other news& up-dates

·        Please remember the Wakulla County Domestic and Sexual Violence Task Force. Domestic and Sexual Violence affects many in our community, many who would never utter a word.  Education and support will go a long way to eradicate this problem.  In conjunction with the Refuge House, the Task Force will be hosting a “CALLING ALL MEN” event. October 28^th at the Wakulla County Public, men and women are encouraged to attend and participate in this event.  For more information please contact Cathy @926-9005

·        Thanksgiving food donations are being collected by area churches.  Please check with your church to see how they are participating in this faith community effort.  The needs are greater this year due to the economy situation and if you can help, it would be greatly appreciated.  For more information you can contact First Baptist Church of Crawfordville @ 926-7896

·        Household Hazardous Waste Day is this Saturday (Oct 18^th)  I mention this for two reasons; one because they asked for our help if we can provide it, and second because most of us guys could use the opportunity and a place to get rid of some stuff like old tires, fluorescent bulbs, paints, solvents, pesticides, and the like.  For more information check out The Wakulla News, pg 7A or call Keep Wakulla County Beautiful @ 926-0830.

News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen.  Not everything is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities.  The pay might not be good, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

Sept 24^th , 2008

·        Well it’s ‘chow time’ once again at Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  Each last Thursday of the month we try to have a meal and get in a little more fellowship time for everybody.  We need to look at this a little closer and try to determine when we can have a business type meeting.  We’re not locked in to the ‘last Thursday’, it was just the one we picked.  We do need a time when we can conduct some business for Men’s Fraternity and get some feedback on what we’re doing.  Not everybody wants to be involved with the video series but would like to participate in the ministry work. One Thursday a month would be a great time to do that.  I know several of the churches are involved on the last Thursday of the month with their own men’s ministry so we should probably move to another Thursday night.  I’m open for suggestions from you guys ‘cause if I pick the wrong day, you won’t come anyhow, so let’s see if we can at least try to reach a majority of you with a day.  We’ll discuss it some this Thursday night, but I still need your feedback.

·        “Unpack’n” will be the topic of Robert Lewis’s discussion this Thursday night, it’s the second step in the series.  Last week he discussed some baggage we carry, this week he’ll unpack it.  Plan to come for dinner at 6:30 and the video at 7:00.  (Please RSVP if you plan to eat)

·        Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery seems to be lingering on with activity as folks get their lives and property back together slowly.  We’ve had several calls to get some trees cleaned up, some furniture moved out and a leak or two repaired.  Some of these I look at and say “why can’t you clean that up yourself, our guys work all week and are tired, besides, they’ve got their families to think of too.”, Then that still small voice whispers, “It’s not about you, or those guys, it’s about Me!”  “Serving Me when and where there is a need, you do it to show ‘my love’ and to ‘glorify the Father which is in Heaven’”.  Matthew5:16 sure comes to life.     If some of these folks could do the task themselves they would, but they’re giving us an opportunity to serve.  If you can help, call me or e-mail me back so we can plan to get these taken care of.

·        Connecting with churches is not as easy as it would seem.  We’ve contacted several Pastors and talked to them about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, but these guys are busy being pastors, feeding the flock and ministering to Spiritual needs.  After all, this is a Layman’s Ministry, designed to help pastors reach the community.  We need one or two guys from each church to participate in Men’s Fraternity and then take the information back to your congregation and get them involved.  One or two from each church coupled with several churches in the community makes for a mighty work force for God’s glory.  As we unify as Christian Men we can accomplish more than just 1 or 2 can alone.  Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla needs your churches participation.

·        We’ve not forgotten about All-Pro Dad and the PTA and hope you haven’t either.  I know it takes some time to pray over a task of this size, but remember, ‘God doesn’t want our ability, He wants our availability, He’ll take care of the rest!!’.   

·        Wakulla County Domestic and Sexual Violence Task Force is still looking for men to step up to the plate and join in the effort to prevent this violence against women & children in our community. We’ve had some interest in this area, but we need to be better informed in order to combat it on a man to man level.  Bill Lytle has agreed to be our Liaison to the Task Force but will need other men to join him in promoting that effort.  Domestic and Sexual Violence affects many in our community, many who would never utter a word.  Education and support will go a long way to eradicate this problem.  See Bill for more details on the “CALLING ALL MEN” event October 28^th.

Sept 15^th , 2008

·        The new video series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” has begun at both locations and is being well attended.  See the front page of our website for details, time & locations.  This weeks topic is “The First Step to Authentic Manhood:  ‘Looking Back’”, the good, noble and missed moments in my life…”There’s always room for one or two more and you can always pick up on the day’s topics with each showing. 

·        Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery activity has subsided pretty much.  We have been getting some calls from folks that have needed trees removed or some repairs made to keep the weather out, we’ve responded to them as we could.  Unfortunately, some have been more than we’ve been able to take care of.  I would remind you for reasons of safety & security it is necessary for volunteers to be registered before we can send them out from Volunteer Wakulla or in some cases through Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  Forms are available through our website or Volunteer Wakulla’s website.

·        Men’s Ministry Activities are also coming in as word gets out that there are men willing to be neighbor’s helping neighbors.  This is a great ministry for us to share the love of God through service to our community while fellowshipping with each other.  We are on the edge of connecting with other men in the community to join this effort, please keep this in your prayers each day.  We are going to try to get these on our Ark-Almighty link on our website as they come in and are completed.

· An important Excerpt from All Pro Dad:  So many young boys today grow up in an atmosphere of little to no male influence.  Many boys are raised in a single-mother household, spend their infancy in daycare run by women, and in schools with a majority of female teachers.  They don’t have a man in their life to teach them manhood apart from an occasional coach.  They have no one other than peers to ask why their sexual drive is so high or why they have a violent tendency.  They’re more likely to drop out of school, develop a drug habit, be incarcerated end even murdered.  There is a hole in their heart that only a father (loving male influence) can fill.

·        All Pro Dad and the PTA is something we’re looking at very hard.  I am more than excited when I look at what is available through that program for our kids and our community.  I want to invite, dare, instruct, and even challenge you to take a look at “All Pro Dads” on our website, click on the All Pro Dads + PTA=involved fathers on the top of their webpage.  Browse the website and then tell me you don’t get excited.  Think of the impact it could have on this community if we had an All-Pro Dads chapter in each of our elementary or middle schools sponsored by Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  Please check it out, pray over it and get back to me to see how we might be able to start simultaneous All-Pro Dads programs in our school system. 

·        Wakulla County Domestic and Sexual Violence Task Force has asked for men to step up to the plate and join in the effort to prevent this violence against women & children in our community. Bill Lytle has agreed to be our Liaison to the Task Force but will need other men to join him in promoting that effort.  Domestic and Sexual Violence affects many in our community, many who would never utter a word.  Education and support will go a long way to eradicate this problem.  See Bill for more details on the “CALLING ALL MEN” event October 28^th. 

News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen.  Not everything is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities.  The pay might not be good, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

September 3^rd, 2008

We’re going to try a different approach to our News & Up-dates information.  Instead of including it as the e-mail, we’re going to highlight the topics and suggest you go to the website to find out more information about a particular topic.  This way you can scan it and see what’s happening and if it is of  interest to you.  We’ll offer limited information to give you a thumbnail sketch of the topic, and discuss it more in detail at the meetings.  We’ll give it a try and see what happens.  I welcome your comments as we attempt to improve our communications and our service to the community.

·        We will begin the Video Series “The Quest For Authentic Manhood” this week at two locations.

o       Each Thursday evening beginning at 6:30 p.m. men will meet “Outback” (behind) Cornerstone Ministries for fellowship & refreshments followed by the presentation of the video series by Dr. Robert Lewis. 

o       Each Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. following the evening service men will meet in the old Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville for fellowship & refreshments followed by the (same as the previous Thursday night) presentation of the video series by Dr. Robert Lewis.

o       Small group discussion pertaining to the night’s topic will take place following the presentation each week.

The first session will give an overview of the series, a brief orientation about Men’s Fraternity and then some basic presuppositions of our manhood journey.  Dr. Lewis seems to reach out and touch each man at some point with something we can relate to in our journey.  If at all possible, you don’t want to miss this first session. 

o        For more specific information about the Men’s Fraternity series click on www.mensfraternity.com/about/about_mens_fraternity.aspx  

·        Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery:  Thanks to each of you that pitched in and helped when called upon during the Tropical Storm Fay Event.  It was some fast learning, but we learned a lot.  The folks at the EOC (Emergency Operations Center) at the Sheriff’s Office, including Sheriff Harvey himself, extended a hand of Thanks to all the Volunteer-WAKULLA & Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla participants that helped out when called upon.

In conjunction with Volunteer WAKULLA Disaster Relief & Recovery we were able to deliver sandbags to several families that were unable to go and get them and disburse them themselves.  In addition we were able to cut up trees, remove debris, make minor short term roof repairs, provide transportation for some displaced citizens, assess needs and deliver Salvation Army ‘clean up kits’ to area residences that were effected by rising water. 

·        There were a few glitches on our part but we learned from our mistakes.  This was a first for us and we were so glad it was not a ‘hurricane disaster’ as we would not have been prepared.  I’ll have more to report on this effort in the weeks ahead, but as it stands now this has been an extremely busy two weeks and much needs to be done to bring our phase of Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery Ministry into play. 

It’s important that we remember our mission in the task of Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery. God instructed us to love our neighbor, pray for our enemies and help one another in HIS name, as we function in this ministry sometimes we don’t see immediate results or the results we’re looking for, but as we put forth the effort to help others in ‘Jesus Name’, God gets the credit and we are obedient to His direction.  It’s not about ‘what we do’ it’s about ‘why we do what we do’. (see News & Up-dates # 29 available on our website under News & Up-dates for somewhat of an explanation of why we do what we do.) Scripture tells us to “…do all things as unto the Lord…”  There’s a whole sermon there but I’m not going to preach it…consider this, the next time there’s a call or e-mail about needing help…..consider WWJD!!

·        Volunteer WAKULLA Disaster Relief & Recovery has a new e-mail address specific for disaster relief & recovery information: vol.wakulla.disaster.r.r@gmail.com .  This address will be used for disaster related correspondence to eliminate or minimize any concerns about folks responding to a men’s fraternity.  Please add it to your address book so you will be able to receive emails directly to your inbox.

·        Community Event:   The 1^st Annual Volunteer Fair and Cookie  Bake-off has been rescheduled to this Saturday (Sept 6^th ) at the Wakulla County Extension Office Arena.  In addition to local volunteer and community organizations information booths and the great taste of ‘Homemade Cookies” Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla will be there with information about this ministry and how it functions.  We’ll have a short on-going video presentation about the Video Series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” and pictures & information about the work Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla has accomplished over this past year.  In addition we’ll have a sign up sheet for individuals interested in serving on a Disaster Relief & Recovery Team. The sign up for Disaster Relief & Recovery will not be limited to just men as there are many area’s where women may serve.   

·        Alternate Meeting Time & Location:  Beginning September 7^th, we’ll have an alternate meeting time & location at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville starting at 7:00 p.m. following the evening service.  The video presentation will be the same as that of the previous Thursday @ ‘Outback’ but will not include the ‘business end’ of the ministry.  For more details go to our website: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ,:’Gathering Times & Locations’.

News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.  It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen.  Not everything is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities.  The pay might not be good, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

August 18^th, 2008

•  Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery: Yes, we were expecting the possibility of a Tropical Storm/Hurricane to hit Florida at some point this season and had mixed feelings about it. Well, Fay has arrived (and another on it’s heels) and we’re all watching them. I see this as a ‘wake up call’ to us here in the county, whether they get to the Big Bend Area or not, we need to take notice!!! It could very well be the one(s) we needed to prepare for so we would have some things in place and be prepared. 

As previously mentioned (Aug 4^th #32) preparations are already in motion to get recognized training for our Wakulla County teams. We’ve already had a call to see if we were ready & organized enough to assist if needed with Fay. In that process I learned there are no Organized Teams in the Wakulla, Franklyn, Gulf or Taylor County area’s, not that there are none, they are just not recognized as Trained & Organized Teams that can be called upon with minimal effort in the event of a disaster. That does not look good for our area. We need to put together a list of citizens interested in serving on a Disaster Relief & Recovery Team and willing to be trained. (not that you don’t know how to function in a disaster, it just works better and safer if we’re operating as a Team with the same training & knowledge) . If you will respond back to me we will begin to put that Team together. MensFraternityofWakulla@byHISgrace.cc    Subject: Disaster Relief Team

•  Helping in a Disaster situation: If you have an interest in volunteering in the event of a disaster, there are several things you should do before setting out to lend a helping hand. Visit www.volunteerleon.org to learn how you can help in the event of a disaster.
   
•  Volunteer Sign-up  Volunteer Wakulla Disaster Relief & Recovery is seeking names & contact information of persons "trained" or experienced in Disaster Response or have an interest is volunteering for R & R work.  Please fill out the Disaster Recovery Volunteer Enrollment Form and a Volunteer Reception Center Form and e-mail:Volunteer Wakulla Disaster Relief & Recovery or fax (850-926-8027) these forms.  The information will make it easier for us to contact groups or persons according to their experience/training or desire to assist as needed.
  
  In an emergency situation WCSO Emergency Management will ultimately coordinate Recovery efforts but we will be a major contact player in area's they are unable assist in.  We're asking church groups or other groups and/or individuals to please forward contact information to e-mail:Volunteer Wakulla Disaster Relief & Recovery.  If you know of someone with experience, training or desire to assist, please pass this information on to them.

• Help with food & groceries: As promised, we are moving ahead with providing information about help with food & groceries. Last week we listed 3 local food banks and contact information for each. We have followed up on the other two opportunities and bring you this information: Cornerstone Ministries in conjunction with Calvary Chapel is the Distribution Center for Angel Food Ministries for our county. Church office # 926-8614, contact person Michelle Sanders Treadway @ 745-1499. Visit www.angelfoodministries.com for detailed information on the program. The Distribution location for the SHARE Program is the Wakulla County Senior Center, 926-7146. Visit www.shareflorida.org for detailed information on this program. Both programs require a pre-paid order (cash or Money Order) in advance of the Distribution Date when placing an order. Contact the respective Distribution locations for ordering details. As the recipients increase volunteers could very well be needed to assist in these area’s of ministry.
   
• Community Event:   Volunteer-WAKULLA will host the 1^st Annual Volunteer Fair and Cookie Bake-off this Saturday (Aug 23^rd) (Rescheduled to Sept 6^th ) at the Wakulla County Extension Office Arena. In addition to local volunteer and community organizations information booths and the great taste of ‘Homemade Cookies” Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla will be there with information about this ministry and how it functions. We’ll have a short video presentation about the Video Series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” and pictures & information about the work Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla has accomplished over this past year. In addition we’ll have a sign up sheet for individuals interested in serving on a Disaster Relief & Recovery Team. The sign up for Disaster Relief & Recovery will not be limited to just men as there are many area’s where women may serve. 
   
• Meeting highlights:  Over last several weeks we’ve had several news guys attend our gatherings on Thursday nights. We’ve snacked and we’ve eaten, we’ve laughed and we’ve covered a lot of ground from the STAND FIRM Daily Devotional we use. Each week we discuss things like; ‘unlike pre-writing an e-mail and reading it before sending it, the spoken word cannot be recalled to the hearer,’ a subject we’ll discuss in “Words Matter” taken from Proverbs 17:27, along with the true meaning of “Hope”, ‘What’s God like’ and ‘Aiming at the Heart’, a message from dad to his kids. We’ll finish up with a “depressed Christian”…is there such a thing?, and where to find help. Each week we support one another through discussion & sharing.
   
• Video Series Begins: Coming up September 4^th, we’ll begin the Video Series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” with Dr. Robert Lewis. Our meeting format will remain the same, but the content will shift toward ‘becoming a real man’, the what, how & why we do the things we do. For more information about this series go to: www.mensfraternity.com .
   
• Alternate Meeting Time & Location: Beginning September 7^th, we’ll have an alternate meeting time & location at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville starting at 7:00 p.m. following the evening service. The video presentation will be the same as that of the previous Thursday @ ‘Outback’ but will not include the ‘business end’ of the ministry. For more details go to our website: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ,:’Gathering Times & Locations’.

News & Up-dates are only reports of future or current activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. It takes our ‘hands on’ participation to make things happen. Not everything is for everyone, but as we come together we can participate in area’s we enjoy. The ministry exists to “Serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time”, we can’t do that if men don’t participate in the activities. The pay might not be good, but the rewards are ‘out of this world’.

August 11^th, 2008
 I thought the spaghetti & fix’ins was pretty good the other week, but apparently it chased some guys off….Jus’ kid’n guys. There was a lot going on last Thursday with the Hunter Safety Course, churches having activities, vacations and those last minute get-a-ways before school starts back, attendance was kind of low. None the less, we did have another new guy show up and had a great discussion time. (The hot wings for snack was a plus!!) We did find out we’re more ‘sinner’ than ‘saint’ and that was an excellent lead in to 'being passive or assertive'. The discussion time was great and we learned a few things.  

 This week we plan to show a short ‘promo video’ about Men’s Fraternity and then get into our discussion time from our daily devotional “Stand Firm”. Topics for this week will bring out some interesting discussions; the ‘no talk’n, no ask’n, no agenda’ prayer time with God, the true meaning of the ‘mastercard’, even Jesus ‘needed help from buddy’, 100 ways to a ‘really better life’ and ‘taming the temper’. Check some of these out in your “Stand Firm” Daily Devotional and come prepared to join in on the discussions. (don’t have one, pick one up Thursday or perhaps your church may have one for you. They’re available through www.Lifeway.com/standfirm )

 In other news & events ☺

 The “Why We’re Here…” tracts are in. These are the little fold-over tracts we give folks when we’ve provided a service or filled a need in their life. They explain why we do what we do…3 simple reasons; ‘I met God one day, and He has changed my life’, ‘I want you to see God’s love in my service’, and ‘I hope you will want to know more about how to have a personal relationship with God,’ they go on to give God’s plan of Salvation through John 3:16. It’s a simple message, a simple card, it simply explains God’s love and ‘why we’re here’. It’s why we do, what we do!!

 Help with food & groceries: As times are getting harder for some folks, the economy, job situations, gas prices, etc., etc., it is time we who can, can pitch in to help our neighbors where we can. One of those ways is to support our local Food Bank locations. First Baptist-Crawfordville (926-7896) has one on Monday nights, Promise Land Ministries (926-3281) has another by appointment. The one in Sopchoppy with River of Life is in reorganization stage right now but is available by appointment. Contact the church office 962-9331 or Pastor Ralph Oliver @ 926-1054. If you’re aware of others, please let us know. These are available to us if we need them, but more importantly let friends & neighbors know of these locations to help their families. 

 We are working on two other opportunities to assist families with food distribution; the SHARE program and ANGEL FOOD MINISTRIES. Both are monthly based and not income contingent. Both would require Volunteers to man them a couple hours each month but these would be participants within the program. We will bring more on this as it becomes available to us. In the mean time, we could bring a can or two to our meetings to be distributed to food banks and help them in their distribution as well. It’s all part of ‘Neighbors helping Neighbors’, and that’s what we do.

 Remember to mark you calendar for August 23^rd for the Volunteer Fair and Cookie Bake off at the Extension Office Arena sponsored by Volunteer Wakulla.  They’ll be information for students & parents about Bright Futures,  information about volunteering in our countyfor adults & seniors, not to mention those great ‘homemade tasty cookies’.  Visit www.volunteerwakulla.org  for more information. (We’ll probably need a volunteer or 2 to man our booth on that day (10:00-2:00) to share about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. Handouts will be provided)

 Remember also about our alternate time & location at First Baptist Church-Crawfordville on Sunday evenings beginning September 7^th. Check out our website www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla for the details. This will open the door for many who’ve indicated they wanted to be a part of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla but the Thursday nights were a conflict. It’ll also provide a second showing of the video if you miss the one on Thursday night. We’re grateful that God has opened this door in our community as well.

 We’re still “look’n for a few good men”. There are still openings & opportunities for dads to participate in the “All Pro Dad’s Day” activities as a Team Captain or as a Team Helper. Check out last weeks News & Up-dates or go on line to www.allprodad.com/apdd/what.php for more info.

 (FYI: You can always go to our website for archives of our News & Up-dates if you miss one or need to refer back)

 Here’s what the guys in Manheim, Pa. are saying about Men’s Fraternity:

"This is our first Men's Fraternity event. Here's what our guys are saying about it:  'Wow,  Awesome, Life Changing, and Meaningful.' We also have a couple of local Disc Jockeys at a Christian radio station who have been describing on air how much they have been already changed by the series. 'Just being at these sessions feeling the energy and attentiveness at 0600 is a testimony in itself.'

" Submitted by Lancaster County Bible Church in Manheim, PA. www.lancastercountybiblechurch.com

August 4^th, 2008

The turnout this past week was great!! Almost every seat in the house was filled as we enjoyed dinner, fellowshipped and listened to Scott & Scott talk about Disaster Preparedness, Relief & Recovery in Wakulla County.  The men were moved to want to know more of how we could get trained to meet any disaster ‘prepared’!!  The concluding thoughts were that we would pursue getting some recognized training to organize specific teams to be prepared in the event of a disaster in our area.  Preparations are already in motion and contacts being made to accomplish that task.  Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla would serve as a base or hub for providing training and distribution of Specific R & R Teams (Relief & Recovery) with a single contact number in the event of a disaster in our area. 

God’s hand was certainly recognized as the men spoke of the desire to serve beyond our own area as ‘Trained Volunteers’ in the event help was needed outside Wakulla County.  His hand was also seen as He multiplied the food as He had done with the 5 loaves & 2 fishes, as the meal was prepared for 10 and 20 showed up!!  We were left with 1 bowl of spaghetti, 1 salad, 1 glass of tea and 1 piece of cake….just enough to feed you, had you been there!.

At the Volunteer Reception Center Full Scale Exercise last Friday, with Volunteer-LEON (and participants from Volunteer-WAKULLA) went well.  The exercise allowed us to see in motion how a properly organized Reception Center would save time, money and energy as well as lives when deployed in a disaster situation.  Since the center serves not only Leon County, but the big bend area, our involvement would be imperative.  If you’ve not signed up yet, sign up now to be contacted to volunteer and help when needed: http://www.1-800-volunteer.org/1800Vol/VolunteerBigBend/LoadOpportunityReview.do?opportunityId=277117

In other news & events

Be sure to mark you calendar for August 23^rd for the Volunteer Fair and Cookie Bake Off sponsored by Volunteer-WAKULLA. The activity will provide Citizens, Youth & Seniors a forum for community exposure to non-profit and volunteer-centered organizations within our county as well as sample cookies made by local groups.  Visit : www.volunteerwakulla.org. for more information.

“Look’n for a few good men”, The new school year will kick off soon and now is the time for our school’s fathers and kids to experience a revolution in their relationship. Would you invest just a couple hours a month with us to be an All Pro Dad’s Day Team Captain? We would like you to start a monthly dads and kids breakfast at your school. All the resources you need are provided at no cost. We just ask for a little of your time to make a lot of kids very happy this year.  If you’d be interested in hosting an All-Pro Dads Day Breakfast in, at or near one of each of our Elementary schools in the county. please go to: www.allprodad.com/apdd/what.php  for complete information.

An alternate time & location for Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla to meet.  Many men have indicated they’d like to participate in Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla’s activities but are unable to attend on Thursday nights.  Well, the First Baptist Church of Crawfordville has offered a solution to that.  In cooperation with the Men’s Ministry of FBC, we will meet on Sunday nights @ 7:00 p.m. following the Sunday evening service and present the video series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” by Dr. Robert Lewis.  Following each presentation, we will have a time of discussion for the men to connect with.  The presentation each week will be the same as that shown on the previous Thursday night “Outback” (behind) Cornerstone Ministries and will be open to all men of our community.  For more information on this, contact Rick Parks, Men’s Ministry Team Leader at reslparks@embarqmail.com or 926-4779.

Weekly discussions: Since we didn’t get a chance to discuss any of the topics from last weeks Stand Firm devotions and most of you guys probably didn’t pick up a new one for August, we should have a lot to discuss this week. One thing that stood out for me was the July 30^th “Weariness Whipped”, the message taken from 2 Thessalonians 3:13, ‘Brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.  The sidebar referenced great scientific information with regard to “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).  There’s actually a “helpers high” that kicks in when we help (volunteer) making us feel better for what we’ve done!!  Imagine that in a volunteer organization!!

This weeks devotions reference ‘asking for advice’, realizing we are both ‘Saint and Sinner’, being ‘passive or assertive’ in our homes, ‘Encouraging our Pastor’, ‘lending an ear’ and “Idle Hands, the Devil’s workshop” for those with time on their hands.  If you’ve not received your copy you can pick up a copy “Outback”.  (please remember we are donation supported for meals, snacks & supplies but no-one will ever be turned away because they can’t afford it)

Remember to mark your calendar for the start of the video series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” beginning September 4^th “Outback” (behind) Cornerstone Ministries.  (Sept 7^th @ FBC) The following is an excerpt from Trinity Baptist Church in response to the series:

Our Men's Fraternity™ is averaging 133 men. We are ecstatic about what is taking place! Sometimes it is frightening to find yourself in the midst of a God thing. We have some men who drive 60 miles to attend.

Robert McCarver
Trinity Baptist Church
Texarkana , Texas

July 29^th, 2008

The comments to the ladies above are actually necessary. Why?, You ask, because most of our e-mails go to women at work, whether in the home or out, and they read them and give me the most input back. Besides, you guys tell me you don’t read your e-mails often enough to know what’s going on. This is sort of a back handed way of getting you the information, (kind of sneaky isn’t it).   Sorry, but what we do at Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is so important to our roles as men that sometimes we’ve got to out smart ourselves and become involved. 

If you’re still with me, let me explain; The main purpose for Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is to draw men together to discuss the challenges we encounter in our day to day lives and seek Godly wisdom to make good decisions. Secondly, to learn we can safely share with other men to find out we’re not alone in our journey with those challenges and learn how to make better decisions at home, at work and at play, and thirdly, (which is most important) to become more Christ-like in our attitude toward life and those around us.

Now you might ask, why then, do we do some of the things we do in Men’s Fraternity? Like build handicap accessible ramps, make home repairs for the less fortunate or get involved in disaster relief & recovery or volunteer programs. These activities are part of the learning process to be more Christ-like in our attitudes, sharing Christian love through unselfish acts of kindness. These provide opportunities for us to share together in a non-threatening way how God is working in our lives. Take Disaster Relief & Recovery for example, as we become knowledgeable & trained we become an asset in the recovery end and are then able to share God’s love to those who are experiencing a devastating situation. It allows us to help in time of need showing God’s love by the sacrificing ourselves for others, exhibiting action to our faith. “What a message that sends!!” As we respond to ‘needy situations’ we become the “Godsend Angels” to do the work that needs being done and we learn a little more about caring for others.

How does this help us as individuals and help our family situations?? As we learn to give of ourselves to others, we learn to be more aware of others needs and less of our own. God blesses our efforts when we do things for the right reasons. It might take a little time away from the family, but the rewards come back with the quality of time spent when we’re together.

Let me give a personal example; last week we had an opportunity to help an elderly couple in need of some home renovations. My 17 year old Grandson gave up a day to help me with the project, (while his girlfriend sat at (his) home to keep an eye on his brothers). The couple were impressed that this young man would give up his day to help them, I got to spend some quality time with my grandson, he got to spend some quality time with his grandfather, we met a need for this family and we felt great about it. We got an opportunity to share God’s love with the couple, and exhibited Christian Love at work to the businesses that helped provide the materials to do the job. Was it worth it?? “you bet’cha!!”

In other news & events

Remember, This Thursday is our “Last Thursday of the Month Dinner” meeting. Scott Nelson, Wakulla County Emergency Management Director and Scott Jackson, Wakulla County Extension Director will be our guest speakers. Topic: Disaster Preparation, Relief & Recovery. (see last weeks News & Updates for more details) Dinner @ 6:30, Meeting beginning @ 7:00.

This Friday, August 1^st, Volunteer LEON (in conjunction with Volunteer-Wakulla participants) will be conducting a Volunteer Reception Center Full Scale Exercise A support team of trained volunteers is needed to be on "standby" in the event that VolunteerLEON (in conjunction with Volunteer-Wakulla participants) activates the "Volunteer Reception Center".  The support team is responsible for making sure that the center is operational and can be of positive assistance during the emergency.  Volunteer-LEON is currently seeking volunteers who: ●Are able to work in a crisis situation, ●Can work as part of a team, ●May have a background in customer service, counseling or facilities management, etc. ●and/or serve in various roles such as greeters, runners, interviewers, phone bank operators, safety trainers, etc. TO REGISTER CLICK http://www.1-800-volunteer.org/1800Vol/VolunteerBigBend/LoadOpportunityReview.do?opportunityId=277117 For more information on this go to their website: www.volunteerleon.org   (Activation of the Support Team could take place for any disaster in the big bend area).

Be watching in local media for information on the Volunteer Fair and Cookie Bake Off sponsored by Volunteer-WAKULLA (www.volunteerwakulla.org) Plan to come and bring the family to find out more about activities and opportunities the family can get involved in together to ‘Make a Difference’. as well as sample some of Wakulla County’s finest ‘home baked cookies’.

For those of you in Wakulla County with school age children, check out the Back to School Event sponsored by the Wakulla County Health Department to be held this Friday, August 1^st @ Wal-Mart. (For more information, please call the Wakulla County Health Department’s Health Educator and Public Information Officer, Ms. Kim Tucker, at (850) 926-2558, ext. 160.).

Remember to mark your calendar for the start of the video series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” beginning September 4^th “Outback” (behind) Cornerstone Ministries. The following is an excerpt from a pastor’s response to the series:

"Men's Life, our weekly men's event is modeled after the Men's Fraternity curriculum and concept developed by Robert Lewis. I believe this may be the single most impactful event I've been involved in in 30 years of ministry. It is revolutionizing men's lives and playing a significant role in the transformation of our congregation. If you're looking to kick-start your ministry, try this program!"
David Peterson, Senior Pastor
Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church, Houston, Texas

July 23^rd, 2008

Congratulations are in order to Pastor Mike & Mrs. McCuen on the birth of their 5^th child, a baby girl weighing in at 7lbs, 10 oz born around 7 p.m. Monday July 21^st. Mike is the Pastor at Cornerstone Ministries who allows us to use the facilities “Outback” at Cornerstone Ministries each week without charge.

And while we’re on the thoughts of most wives & mothers, I wanted to give you that website mentioned above.  www.familyfirst.net  will bring you to a great family helps site including Pro-Dads, imom & Family Minute for great helps and support for families in today’s culture. Check it out, we’ll have it available on our website very soon.

God really came through this past week (as always) and provided just the right amount of help for that Christian School project mentioned last week and even more. There was just the right amount of men, skills & talent to get a great deal done, although not completed, but well on it’s way. God also provided 3 men to the 3 already working on a Handicap Ramp in Sopchoppy. The morning weather was great and that project is 95% complete. It sure feels good to be a ‘Neighbor helping a Neighbor’, the smiles and joy expressed by the recipients makes it all worthwhile. We still have a few more projects on our ArkALMIGHTY site and adding more as more people become aware of this ministry’s existence. To find out more, go to: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla  , click on the Ark-Almighty block, click the “GO” next to “Find my Church” (upper right corner), enter Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, Crawfordville, FL and that should bring you to the site. You can check out the projects we have pending, add a need or add a skill or meet a need (the click here to help). If you have a problem, call me and I’ll walk you through it.(for more information on the Ark-Almighty site see our News & Up-dates #27 (July 2^nd edition) on our website)

I’ve talked to several people this past week who’ve indicated they enjoy receiving these News & Up-dates and indicate this is something really needed in our community. I thank you for your comments, but I must remind each one us that the work, whether physical or support, can only exist as ‘we the people’ provide the manpower & support for each other. Just as in your individual church or group, we can’t let ‘just a few’ do all the work, we must all pitch in when & where we can to reach out and help each other and spread God’s love in our community. We invite you to our gatherings, we meet each week for convenience for those with busy schedules, we’re centrally located in the county and there’s no cost involved (donations accepted). Grab a buddy and stop by. (Details & directions are on our website www.byHISgrace.cc/Men’sFraternityofWakulla )

In other news & events

Discussion last week was great! All the guys had some sort of input as we rounded out ‘Sticks, Stones and Honeycombs’. This week we’ll be looking at “A New Story” about change, “Fantasy vs. Reality” a real eye-opener and “Going ‘All in’” where we’ll take a look at a numbers game to see what ‘going all in’ means. Each of these discussion starters come from the “Stand Firm” daily devotional magazine for men that we use. They’re available through our website under Workbooks & Study Guides or at our meetings.

For our ‘last Thursday of the Month Dinner Meeting’ this month, (which is next week, July 31^st) we’re planning on having Scott Nelson, Wakulla County Emergency Management Director and Scott Jackson, Wakulla County Extension Director as our Guest Speakers. The topic will be Disaster Preparation & Recovery with regard to individuals, families, businesses and our community at large. The discussion will be geared to men of the community who would be willing to be Trained Volunteers to assist in the event of an emergency. (check out our website (Disaster Relief News & Information) for those who can and can’t help in the event of a disaster) We’ll serve dinner at 6:30 and the meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. (please e-mail or call us beforehand for reservations for dinner prior to the speakers)

In a follow-up exercise, Volunteer LEON (in conjunction with Volunteer-Wakulla participants) will be conducting a Volunteer Reception Center Full Scale Exercise on August 1^st in Tallahassee. For more information on this go to their website: www.volunteerleon.org

Volunteer-WAKULLA is planning a Volunteer Fair and Cookie Bake-off on Saturday, August 23^rd. As an active member of Volunteer-WAKULLA we will want to participate with our information booth during the Volunteer Fair and submit some of our homemade (?) cookies for the event. Plan to come and bring the family to find out more about activities and opportunities the family can get involved in together to ‘Make a Difference’. Check out their website for more information on this: www.volunteerwakulla.org   

BTW: Volunteer-WAKULLA is having a meeting at the TCC Wakulla Center this Thursday, 11:00a.m. to discuss events & activities.  Plan to attend if you can.

Our video series is scheduled to begin September 4^th.  In the ‘Quest for Authentic Manhood’, Robert Lewis tells of his first mountain-climbing experience. An experience that can reinforce ones understanding of men and the way they relate to one another. After all, our lives are a journey, an uphill climb, a dangerous adventure if attempted alone. Men need to be connected with other men, we need to surround ourselves with other God-fearing males, guys who can challenge us, share our struggles, help us up when we stumble, and cheer for our successes. Make plans now to schedule joining us each week as we journey through the ‘Quest for Authentic Manhood’.

July 16th, 2008
First off, let me say “Thanks” to those of you that responded to last weeks News & Up-dates, it was a ‘shot in the arm’ to know these writings are not in vain. As a matter of fact (or information) Wakulla.com (www.wakulla.com )now carries our News & Up-dates on their Community News/Clubs & Organizations section for even greater exposure. (Thanks Mary Katherine). It’s a great place to go to find out what’s going on in Wakulla County each week. ….And speaking of news, we want to thank the Wakulla News for running the article “What Men Need” under the MY VIEW in their Comment & Opinion section last week. Boy was I surprised to open the paper and see it there. In talking with Keith Blackmar, Editor, we’re going to try to work something out for a regular article as space is available.

 While we’re thanking folks and talking about the publicity Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is getting, let me thank all those businesses that have allowed us to put up posters in their business establishments. Your willingness to help and your positive comments are greatly appreciated. (Men, look for these posters and be prepared to share with others about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. Be sure to point them to our website.)

 Let me throw this short testimony in here, as it’s appropriate: This past week another guy showed up at our Thursday night gathering Outback with some concerns. He indicated he was talking to a guy at Wal-mart and the guy, a fellow Christian, suggested he stop by Men’s Fraternity for some ‘godly-guy’ advice, turned out the topic for discussion that night ‘hit the nail on the head’!! Ain’t God Good!!!” The guy at Wal-mart had never been to one of our meetings, but knew where to send his new friend.

 I want to put this out there too. For the past several weeks Satan has really been working on me about the effectiveness of this ministry. Boy there have been some peaks & valleys, but God has been faithful. Satan hits with short jabs and targets the right places to get to us causing doubts, but God has remained faithful and steadfast in His love and up lifting. Just as we can look at the previous paragraphs of this e-mail and see God’s hand at work, He helps us on the journey He’s planned for us (and Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla) As we call upon Him for help He supports us according to His plan and allows us to continue in spite of Satan’s blows. (Men, stay the course, stand firm, seek God’s will in your life and look for where God is at work and join Him there!)

 In other news & events:

 We’ve added a new project need to our Ark-ALMIGHTY site. A local Christian School needs help this week-end connecting existing ramps to each other to allow children with disabilities access to classrooms. Check out the details and other pending projects needing completion on our ‘Ark-Almighty’ site. (pick that up from our website; www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla , click on the Ark-Almighty block, click the “GO” next to “Find my Church” (upper right corner), enter Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, Crawfordville, FL and that should bring you to the site. You can check out the projects we have pending, add a need or add a skill or meet a need (the click here to help). If you have a problem, call me and I’ll walk you through it.(for more information on the Ark-Almighty site see our News & Up-dates #27 (July 2^nd edition) on our website)

 In our discussion time this week, we’ve got several great topics…it’s hard to pick just one, fortunately, most of these kind-a lend themselves to each other and actually blend with last weeks discussion. Our topics include; ”Straight Talk”, which bounces off Proverbs 27:6, “Throwing out the Score Sheet”, a topic much discussed last week and “Sticks, Stones and Honeycombs” coming from Proverbs 16:24. Interestingly enough, each of these are designed to help us guys at home as well as at work or play. We start to gather around 6:30 for snack & fellowship and then get into open discussion. Come join us, I’m sure your input will be a welcome addition to our discussion. (see our website for directions: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ) (Need a ride, give us a call 508-2560.)

 For our ‘last Thursday of the Month Dinner Meeting’ this month, (July 31^st) we’re planning on having Scott Nelson, Wakulla County Emergency Management Director and Scott Jackson, Wakulla County Extension Director as our Guest Speakers. The topic will be Disaster Preparation & Recovery with regard to individuals, families, businesses and our community at large. (please e-mail or call us beforehand for reservations for dinner prior to the speakers)

 The “Quest for Authentic Manhood” Video series with Dr. Robert Lewis will begin on September 4^th and continue through December 18^th for the 1^st part (as this is dated material). More on the presentation will be forthcoming. More on the video series can be obtained at www.mensfraternity.com .

July 9th, 2008
Well another week has whizzed by and it seems as though we’re racing toward the start up date for the video series “The Quest For Authentic Manhood” by Dr. Robert Lewis, which is to begin in late August or early September. (The exact date has not yet been established). Currently we are continuing our discussions from the Stand Firm Daily devotional magazine with an emphasis on one or more of the daily writings. Some of the topics for this week will center around; “Truth Matters”, “Benefit of the Doubt”, “Wisdom to Lead” and “More Stuff Is not Enough”,  One in particular that stands out to me is the “Benefit of the Doubt” dealing with communication between men & women…boy that reaches home!! If you haven’t been, or even if you have, stop by and chat with us, we’re very informal, we gather around 6:30 p.m., but late-comers are never late.

 Last weeks gathering was rather interesting, with several of our guys on vacation we were low in attendance and our thought was ‘OK, we’ll eat some chips ‘N dip, suck down some Pepsi, chat for a bit and go home early’. ….well, the best laid plans of man…, around quarter after seven this new guy drives up, we greet him at the door and invite him in. The usual introductions are made, git ‘em a Pepsi and a seat and we begin to chat. As it turned out, he had some shar’n he needed to do and God directed him to some guys that would listen. Wow, that’s what Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is about!! (We were glad we got the front cleared out or he’d never have found us). We were also glad we didn’t leave early.

 Also last week, as I prepared and set up our booth at the 1^st Annual Chautauqua at Hudson Park many thoughts were running through my mind. One of which, (of course), ‘was this worth it’, was the time and effort really worth all the trouble to prepare & set up and stay out there in the heat of the day in the hopes that some men might come by and inquire about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. Well, as the song goes “That’s why we worship….”, God provided the answers. We made several good contacts, had good exposure and got to talk to quite a few people. Several indicated the Summer was not really a good time for them but would be attending in the Fall. We met a Psychologist who has interest, and a guy who has a family of ‘yours, mine, ours & theirs’, (talk about a blended family) and has some Christian counseling (non-professional) in his background.  So many times when I question the existence of this ministry God steps up and provides just what’s needed to say “I’m to provide the message, He’ll take care of the results!!”

 To be honest with you I was a little surprised that I did not get any response to last weeks News & Up-Dates comments, none, nada, not pro or con, no support or demise…..oh yes, there was one… one guy sent back a “do not send” request. It does make me wonder sometimes if these are read at all or should I be spending this time in other areas. If you get a chance, reply once in a while so I know our efforts are not in vain. Thanks

 In other news & events:

 There are still a couple of projects needing completion on our ‘Ark-Almighty’ site. (pick that up from our website; www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla , click on the Ark-Almighty block, click the “GO” next to “Find my Church” (upper right corner), enter Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, Crawfordville, Fl and that should bring you to the site. You can check out the projects we have pending, add a need or add a skill or meet a need (the click here to help). If you have a problem, call me and I’ll walk you through it.(for more information on the Ark-Almighty site see our News & Up-dates #27 (July 2^nd edition)

 There’s been some concern about our meeting on a ‘conflicting night’ with other men’s groups, If you will give me some input about when your group meets, we’ll see if we can’t be more accommodating. Also, if you will get me the name of your Men’s Group Leader and a phone # or e-mail address I’ll contact him.  Many churches physical address and the address they get their mail at are different and our mailed correspondence is returned. Also, many churches do not check their ‘voice mail’ except on Wednesday night or Sunday mornings, (both very busy times for a pastor), and returned calls are forgotten.

 As mentioned earlier, we’ll be starting the video series “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” in late August or early September, as we build toward that we’ll be having highlights at our gatherings. These will be very informative and relative to the series. You can also check these out through our website by clicking on the “view missed sessions” under the smaller Men’s Fraternity logo to the left of our main webpage.

 While we’re on the subject of webpage and up-coming events, check out the All-Pro Dads icon too. Click on the Monthly Breakfast (among other things) and you’ll see what we’d like to get started for the up coming school year. We would need a coordinator for that project so if you have any interest, please let me know and we’ll see where we can go with that.

July 2nd, 2008

 It’s the wee hours in the morning that I’m writing these News & Up-dates, I’ve just completed reading several devotional messages along with their Scripture counterparts. I found it very interesting that even though these devotionals are not connected with each other, the content, or at least the understanding of the content was so similar and tied so perfectly with the Stand Firm daily devotional we use in Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla for July 1 & 2.. 

 I know this message is somewhat different from the usual News & Up-dates I write, but I’ve been concerned about the effectiveness of our efforts in Men’s Fraternity. We have ventured from the standard Men’s Fraternity format in several ways and perhaps confused some. I would apologize, but I’m not going to; please, let me explain; The concept of Men’s Fraternity is to reach men and help them become better men, etc., to do that, one must connect with other men to see that we’re not alone in our quest, hence the discussion time following the video presentations by Dr. Robert Lewis. It’s difficult for men to share, especially with strangers or even other men we know though not very well. Sharing is an intimate thing, done only with close friends and those we trust. Currently we are not doing the video presentations (they are scheduled to continue in August) but instead we’re discussing the daily content from the Stand Firm devotional magazine as they might apply to our day to day lives & circumstances.  This, coupled with our involvement in the community, working side by side enables us to draw closer to each other so we can build that bond of friendship and trust, hence the activities & projects we’re involved in. 

 Taking this a step further, as a faith based organization we want to be able to share the love of God with others in a non-threatening way. Unfortunately, the Christian community has portrayed the image of pointing fingers, condemnation and hypocrisy instead of love and God’s forgiveness. We are all sinners, saved by grace!! Our goal in Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is to bring men to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ and show how He can bring joy & happiness into their lives. The only effective way of doing that is by example. We all go through trials & temptations of different sorts but we think we are going through them alone… We are not alone, each of us has a story to tell…to share with others and show how God has had a vital part in our lives. “As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another” is a prime example of how we can help each other and share God’s love.

 Now you might be wondering what this has to do with my initial comments, well lately I’ve been extremely busy (as I know we all have been) with “other needed ‘to do’ activities” and the activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla have stepped up but not the man-power. This has presented some concerns and questions about our effectiveness in reaching men. Without manpower, we cannot take care of projects in our community, (caring for widows & orphans and those in need), without that comradery we’re not able to connect with each other, (brother to brother, Christian w/non-Christian) to build the bond of friendship and trust, without that bond of fellowship we’re not able to share effectively by example (Jesus ministered outside the walls of the church). Yes, we can work within our own church groups, and minister to those within our congregations, but then are we really reaching out ‘beyond the walls’. 

 The Ministry of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is dependant upon the Christian men of our community being involved, showing up when we gather, sharing with each other and supporting the work of the ministry. We are non-denominational for a purpose, we are ‘not a church’ for the purpose of allowing unity of different churches in our community to work together while sharing the common bond of Christian love & service. We welcome the opportunity to be able to come and talk with your church or men’s group and explain the work & mission of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. Visit our website; www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla or visit our booth at Chautauqua at Hudson Park this Saturday, July 5^th from 10:00-2:00.

 In other news & events:

 Change in scenery outback behind Cornerstone Ministries; Have you see the changes in the landscape behind Cornerstone Ministries? You can now see our location “Outback” where we gather each week. There’s still some morework to be done, but it’s a great improvement.  It was nice to look out over the open field last week as we cooked steak on the grill for our Quarterly Family Night Cook-out and see the road. A good time of food & fellowship was had by those in attendance.

 Check out the Ark-Almighty site on our website, we’ve had several opportunities for service come in and are listed on our website under the ‘Ark-Almighty’ icon. This is where we list projects & opportunities for service, available to anyone who wishes to submit a need or a helping hand. You might check that out if you have or know of a need or you want to help meet a need. Information listed on ARK-Almighty is confidential and goes only to the Coordinator. Just the “project information” is listed on site, contact information is handled through Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. As not everyone has or uses the computer, you could relay or provide information regarding known needs in your community and we’ll follow up on them as we can. Needs & Helpers both are needed.

 Visit our booth at Chautauqua this Saturday, July 5^th at Hudson Park where we will be set up to display pictures of some of the projects we’ve been involved in, hand out information about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, and answer questions about the ministry. Look for our sign above the tent.

June 24^th, 2008

Ladies & Gentlemen…. You’re invited to our Quarterly Family Cook-out & Games Fun Night this coming Thursday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m.. Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is supplying the STEAK (some will be ground, ie: hamburgers, and some rolled, ie: hot dogs.), but steak is steak!! We’re asking each family to bring a covered dish or dessert to feed their family plus one and we’ll supply the coffee, tea, water or cold drinks & ice, plates, napkins & utensils We’re hoping to provide games & activities for the whole family, horse shoes, tetherball, croquet, pool, air-hocky and even attempt a tug-o-war between the ladies & children and the “mucho” men!!. Even though several of our men are out of town this week, we still intend to have a great time together and meet each others’ families. Membership is not required as Men Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is non-denominational and inter-denominational and open to all men of different backgrounds, education, vocations, financial standings, races and faiths. .”it’s not church”, and we’re not look’n for church members. We are a Faith-based brotherhood of men and boys from Wakulla County who share in the quest for authentic manhood ’Serving God, Family & Community, one man at a time” 

There’s a big change in scenery outback behind Cornerstone Ministries since the men and some young men cleared out a lot of underbrush. You can now see the trailer “Outback” where we gather each week. There’s still some more to be done, but it’s a great improvement. We’ll be getting to that as we can. To get back to us, enter to the west of the lighted sign, pass in front of the church and come along side of the building straight back to the doublewide behind the church building. Look for the sign.

As a result of our speaking opportunities this past week we’re expecting several new folks to attend so everybody make everybody feel at home.

We’ve had several opportunities for service come in this past week and are listed on our website under the ‘Ark-Almighty’ icon. You might check that out if you have or know of a need or you want to help meet a need. Information listed on ARK-Almighty is confidential and goes only to the Coordinator. Just the “project information” is listed on site, contact information is handled through Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. As not everyone has or uses the computer, you could relay or provide information regarding known needs in your community and we’ll follow up on them as we can. Needs & Helpers both are needed.

Short news this week. We hope to see you and your family at the Quarterly Family Cook-out & Games Fun Night Thursday night.

June 18th, 2008

I hope you had an enjoyable Fathers Day and had an opportunity to spend some time with your kids, young & old alike, as well as some time with their mother. I know for some of you that statement will get a smile and a nod, while others will say “yeah, I wish”, yet still others will have some derogatory words about the kids or their mothers and then wonder why you’re even reading this. Hopefully, you’ll continue to read it, do a little soul searching and realize we each are responsible for the decisions we make and the consequences thereof. That doesn’t mean you’re to blame for anything, it merely means we are accountable for our choices in life. I’ve made this statement before, and will make it many times again I’m sure, but I sure wish I had someone I could go to for help & advice when I first got married and started having children. It sure would have made a difference in my parenting years and especially in my choices. Oh, I’m not complaining, I survived, and have 3 great kids, the youngest is 37 and I’ve got 7 Grandchildren. Surely, by the grace of God they all turned out quite well. 

But getting back to the help & advice thing, that’s something we try to offer at Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. Not that we lecture or tell you how things should be, but we share our concerns with each other, and offer testimony of our experiences, the good and the bad. You know that old Indian saying about ‘…don’t criticize another until you’ve walked a mile in his moccasins’ , Well, here’s a chance to learn from those foot steps. As we gather each week, there’s an opportunity for the guys to share a concern, sometimes it’s a result of one of the previous days devotions from the Stand Firm Men’s Daily Devotional books we use, and sometimes it’s just a concern that’s on someone’s mind. It’s interesting to note that usually always, someone can share from their experiences and offer some insight. That’s one of the neat things about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, the sharing thing. Psalm 27:17 puts it this way; “As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another”

Oh, we do other things besides sit around and share. There’s those projects around the county we have opportunities to participate in by being a Neighbor helping a Neighbor, and there’s some things we need to take care of for ourselves too. Like the clearing out of underbrush in front of the trailer “Outback” behind Cornerstone Ministries where we meet. In the midst of working side by side one of the men shared with me an opportunity he had to talk with his grown son as a result of something he heard at Men’s Fraternity. He was glad to have someone to share that with and I was glad that he was able to take something away from our time spent at one of our meetings. And that’s not an uncommon thing.

Two of my Grandsons were able to come out and help with the clean-up and they got to share in the hard work and sweat as they got to work with and spend some time with their grandfather, boy, was I proud!! They will get to remember that for a long time. They learned what hard work was all about, learned how to cut out underbrush, use a chainsaw, a rake and a shovel, all while do’n ‘man stuff’ with other men. We didn’t get it all done yet, so we’ll be working on it little by little. If you’d like to be a part of that ‘shar’n’, bring your son or grandson out and help pitch in. Call me for more details.

Before I forget, the new Stand Firm Daily Devotionals are in. These are the ones we’re using as our discussion starters each Thursday night. We’ll have them available for a $2.50 donation per monthly issue to help defray costs. Last week our discussion kicked off from the Thursday, June 12^th topic of “Unconditional Love”. Not what you would have expected. It dealt with a fathers love to his children, ‘unconditional love’. It addressed fathers as mentors, trainers and lovers of children, fathers that teach and lead with compassion and an awareness of the children’s needs. It also spoke of the ‘father-child bond’ as a great predictor of a child’s success, about delinquency, drug use, school dropout, depression, sexual activity and other heartbreaking behaviors. There was a lot packed into that single page devotion and it prompted a good discussion and exchange of thoughts & experiences. Man, you should’a been there!

In other news & events:

Speaking opportunities; This past week I had an opportunity to speak to the men at FBC-Crawfordville about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. It was only a 5-minute talk, but it, coupled with the bulletin insert covered a lot of ground. We’re hoping to encourage more men to get involved and participate in this men’s ministry, ”Serving God, Family & Community, one man at a time”. This week I hope to have an opportunity to share some with the Rotary Club and next week we’ll be speaking to the men at Providence Baptist Church. We would love an opportunity to speak to the men at your church or civic group about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, it doesn’t matter, the group or affiliation you’re involved in, as men, we’re in this together. Give me a call, more details are available on our website: www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla.

Outback work days; We’re in the process of doing some underbrush clearing Outback behind Cornerstone Ministries, what has been done so far has made a big difference as “Outback” is more visible from the highway. We’re working out there when we can, mornings or evenings so if you can lend a hand, it would surely be appreciated. We want to give a “BIG THANKS” to John for his backhoe & brush-hog experience. It sure has taken the place of many man-hours and hard work. Thanks John.

Quarterly Family Cook-out & games night: June 26^th will be our scheduled Quarterly Family Cook-out & games night. We’ll be supplying the meat and asking families to bring a covered dish to go along with STEAK….(some will be ground, ie: hamburgers, and some rolled, ie: hot dogs.), but steak is steak!! . We will address the ‘skeeters’ and speak to the cook as well as attempt to have a more organized game time. We’ll have horse shoes, Tetherball, Croquet, Pool, Air-hocky, and we’ll even attempt a ‘tug-o-war’ between the ladies & children and the “mucho” men!! It will be a great family time and a time to meet each others families. Grab a neighbor and bring the family. June 26^th, 6:30 pm, “Outback” behind Cornerstone Minstries (824 Shadeville Hwy, (Hwy 61) (508-2560 for more info)

June 9th, 2008

Whew, what a busy week this has been…I keep telling my wife ‘I need to get a ‘real job’ so I can work 9-5, M thru F, and get some time off to relax, this retirement is for the birds…’  but ya’ know, I love what I do and work’n for this Jewish carpenter ain’t so bad. The rewards & retirement are out of this world!! At our Men’s Fraternity gathering I enjoyed sitting around drinking a cup of java and eating a piece of homemade cake discussing some of the challenges of a fellow member. Even though it had nothing to do with the subject at hand from the Stand Firm Devotional we’re use’n, we were able to share & discuss some of his job concerns. Some of the men shared from their experiences, we discussed what the Bible had to say about such matters, and in the end we experienced what brotherly love is all about, caring for one another. Sure, we prayed with this brother and we all left ‘lifted up’ because of the experience. 

 Chip Mitchell from Homestead Ministries was an unexpected guest that came with Mark Prasek and shared some of what God is doing at Fellowship in the Field. He sent some pictures of their recent Youth Event at the Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center which you can view for yourself at: http://picasaweb.google.com/ChipMit/51008YouthEventPartII . You can also get more information about Fellowship in the Field at: www.fellowshipinthefield.org  We partner with them as an extension of “Serving God, Family & Community, one man at a time”.

 Mark shared some of the experiences he’s encountered over the years where just being there for a brother helped so much. Mark also practices ‘going beyond the walls of the church’ to reach people with God’s love, not a bad practice, since Jesus spent a lot of time out there too. That is similar to the concept of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. There’s a lot of hurting men out there, some are involved in church and some are not, sometimes you just can’t share in a mixed group, giv’n or receiv’n , but the hurt is still there. Hey, we’ve all been there at one time or another. We’re not about guilt & shame, not about point’n fingers, we’re about love & support for each other.

 At our gathering last week we also talked some about what kind of an active role Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla would have in Wakulla County’s Disaster Preparedness & Response Teams and the Big Bend COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster). We might be only one pea in the pod, but our role will be vital. We’ll be talking more on this in the weeks ahead. 

 Just FYI, the meeting Monday with the Emergency Management folks, Volunteer-LEON and LCEM, the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Florida Baptist Disaster Relief and a host of other organizations to form the COAD was quite informative and successful. It was interesting to learn and realize that when disaster hits a community, not only those ‘directly hit’ are affected, but businesses & service agencies are also affected because of the manpower loss in employees. Some vital businesses or services might not be available for several days to help those in need. Consider how you might be part of the solution rather than part of the problem. Consider contacting Volunteer-WAKULLA (www.VolunteerWAKULLA.ORG) (922-6290) to see where you might be able to plug in with your experience and training to be a neighbor helping a neighbor.  More on that as it develops.

 We had 5 men attending the Florida Baptist Disaster Relief Training this past Saturday as first timers who received some training on the basics of Disaster Relief. Although not fully trained in all aspects, they’re qualified to enter and help in disaster areas. We will be working on training teams in the near future with the help of the Florida Baptist Disaster Relief Training Team. There are many phases of Disaster Relief from Child Care for the Volunteers to  Transportation of the handicapped or elderly to complete Rebuilding of homes & businesses in a community.  If you or your church wants to be a part of these Teams let us know so we can include you in the notifications. ( women & wives are very much included in disaster relief)

 Remember: “Emergency Management Officials now require all volunteers to be credentialed by an organization like Florida Baptist Disaster Relief before they are allowed to work in a disaster response area” 

In other news & events:

 Outback work days; We’re planning on doing some underbrush clearing Outback behind Cornerstone Ministries so our facility will be more visible from the highway. We’ll be working out there after 5:30 p.m. till dark, beginning the 16^th through 20^th , if you can stop by and lend a hand, that’ll be great. Thanks.

 The new Stand Firm Daily Devotionals are in. These are the ones we’re using as our discussion starters each Thursday night. We’ll have them available for a $2.50 donation per monthly issue to help defray costs or you can order them through your church from Lifeway.com. (For individual copies, you can order them through our website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla), under Study Guides.

 Remember, we meet behind Cornerstone Ministries (824 Shadeville Hwy, (Hwy 61))in the doublewide “Outback”, which is behind that big clump of trees & bushes.  Swing around to the right of the church and come straight back. We’ll leave the light on for ya’. 

June 4^th, 2008

I’m sure some of you are wondering how come we call Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla a Faith Based Organization and talk about building ramps and getting prepared for Hurricane Season and signing up for Disaster Preparedness & Response Training, it just sounds like a lot of additional work added to our already busy schedules. Well, you’re almost right… But like Dear ole’ dad used to say ”You’re gonna thank me for this some day son”. Being prepared for a situation makes good sense, helping a neighbor in need is scriptural. And what better time to be able to witness to someone about God’s love and His power than when your shoulder to shoulder with someone and you’re working on the evidence of God’s mighty power in nature. I’m not talking about preach’n, I’m talking about the opportunity God gives each of us to share what God is doing in our lives, then let Him take it from there.

 Being prepared for a situation means a lot of things. Being prepared to avoid danger, being prepared in the event of an emergency, being prepared to know what to do when situations come up, all that’s important. It’s also important to know what to do when things come up around the house or at the work place or in a recovery situation after a disaster. That’s why Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla exists…to help us guys share some of those experiences, learn from each other. Just as iron sharpens iron, men sharpen men… both spiritually and in our day to day walk. The building and the training we talk about is all designed to help us be good at what we’re doing, after all, someone will listen to someone who knows what they’re do’n quicker than somebody who is ill-prepared.

 Mark Prasek, Disaster Relief Coordinator, for the Florida Baptist Association will be our guest speaker this Thursday night. Mark will undoubtedly be able to share some situations where because men were trained to do a specific task, do it right, quickly and safely, they earned the right to share their faith, plant a seed or even lead someone to a saving knowledge of our Lord and Savior. I invite you to grab a friend and come and hear Mark speak.  We’ll fellowship, drink some coffee or cold drinks, have some dessert of some kind and talk men stuff…we’ll be gone by 8:30.

 In other news & events:

As a reminder, the Disaster Relief training is this Saturday at North Florida Baptist Church. Registration is from 8:30-9:00, Training begins @ 9:00 to 3:00 (check the calendar on our website for details and our new Disaster Relief Information page  (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ). Area’s of training will include Mass feeding; clean-up and recovery; temporary childcare; emergency communications, spiritual care and water purification. Remember, Emergency Management Officials now require all volunteers to be credentialed by an organization like Florida Baptist Disaster Relief   before they are allowed to work in a disaster response area.

 Be sure to check out the article in the Wakulla News (May 29 edition) “Neighbors can help their Neighbors” and on Wakulla.com “Neighbors helping Neighbors”, complete with pictures”. It’s interesting to note the various occupations of those men who worked and the variety of churches represented from all over our county. God made the way for those men to come together, meet the needs of those people and provided the material to get the job done. What seeds do you think were planted?

 Remember, we meet behind Cornerstone Ministries in the doublewide “Outback”, which is behind that big clump of trees & bushes. Swing around to the right of the church and come straight back. We’ll leave the light on for ya’. …and speaking of that clump of trees & bushes, we need to have a work day outback to get them thinned out. Possibly the week of June 16th…If you can lend a hand that day, that’ll be great.

 Advertising & promoting Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla:  Some fliers & mini-fliers are available for distribution around town. They can be picked up at the gathering on Thursday nights or call or e-mail me to get some. (Sorry, they were too big to download and send via e-mail) Also, we’re looking for invitations to speak to Pastors, churches and Men’s Groups about Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla.

May 27th, 2008 

No meeting May 29^th

Due to the fact that so many have conflicting activities or events for May 29^th we are suspending the meeting that night. 

As a follow up to the meeting of last week with the Emergency Management folks, Volunteer-LEON and LCEM are planning a ‘disaster planning and response’ planning meeting on June 9^th to establish a Big Bend COAD, part of which will be in preparation for Disaster Preparedness & Response Training in our county. We’ll know more after that meeting, keep a watch on our website and these News & Up-dates each week as progress begins to unfold. We will also post information in the local media and Wakulla.com.

As a reminder, the Disaster Relief training is still a go for June 7^th with Florida Baptist Disaster Relief (check the calendar on our website for details: (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ). While there, go to News & Up-Dates and scroll down to Disaster Relief News and check out the story about the recent tornado in Capitola, just a few miles from here. That could have been Crawfordville, Panacea, Sopchoppy or St. Marks.

In other news & events:

As I had mentioned before the format of our gatherings has shifted somewhat; we still gather around 6:30 p.m. for fellowship and refreshments (for those who can make it), then around 7:00 we’ll get into some discussion time from the Stand Firm Daily Devotional for men. (current books have been ordered).  We are hopeful that the new books will be in for us to start our June gatherings. As a side note, with our current schedule it’s not entirely necessary that a person attend each week, (although that’s our preference), we’ll be discussing things from the daily devotional readings from the previous week(s) as needed. Weekly attendance enhances the fellowship and comradery as well as keeps you informed of what we’re doing on a week to week basis, it also gives you a say in what we’re doing.

Be watching for the article in our local news media about Neighbors helping Neighbors as we promote some of the activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla to our community. You know, this work would not be possible if it were not for men coming together to help our neighbors in need, and that’s only a small part of what this organization is all about. Check out articles on Wakulla.com as well.

Remember, we meet behind Cornerstone Ministries in the doublewide “Outback”, which is behind that big clump of trees & bushes. Swing around to the right of the church and come straight back. We’ll leave the light on for ya’.  …and speaking of that clump of trees & bushes, we need to have a work day outback to get them thinned out. As soon as we can put together the date, we’ll take care of that…If you can lend a hand that day, that’ll be great.

Advertising & promoting Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla:  A couple of suggestions have come in, one was bright colored Business Cards to pass out or display (we’re working on that). Another was “mini-fliers”…. these we have!  But in an effort to keep the cost down I’m going to ask each of you to print out a one page (8 ½ X 11)  color flier (2 fliers per page), and post one on the bulletin board at your church or office/job site (if in Wakulla County) and the other in the Men’s Room. (you pick the best spot!!) You can print out more and post elsewhere around the county where you frequent and that will help as well.

In closing… (as they say….), we’re planning on having Scott Nelson, Emergency Management Director as our guest speaker in the very near future to discuss those Disaster Preparation & Recovery plans with the group. Watch for and plan to be with us for that meeting.

May 21st, 2008

This afternoon we met with the Wakulla County Emergency Management Director Scott Nelson and the Leon County Emergency Management Team, Jeri Bush & Michael Edwards, from VolunteerLEON. We had 5 men present representing Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla. A great deal was covered in the 2 hour meeting from what would happen to Wakulla County if a category 3 hurricane were to hit our coast to when and where we can have a Disaster Preparedness & Response Training in our county. More will come from this meeting as we plan and prepare to “be prepared”. Keep a watch on our website and these News & Up-dates each week as progress begins to unfold. We will also post information in the local media and Wakulla.com.

At present, the Disaster Relief training is still a go for June 7^th with Florida Baptist Disaster Relief (check the calendar on our website for details: (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ). While there, go to News & Up-Dates and scroll down to Disaster Relief News and check out the story about the recent tornado in Capitola, just a few miles from here. That could have been Crawfordville, Panacea, Sopchoppy or St. Marks.

In other news & events:

I want to thank Craig, Josh, John, Gene, & Mike for helping me finish up that last ramp and for loading & unloading all that left over material this past week. Guys, it truly could not have gotten done without you. THANKS!!! 

Be watching for the article in our local news media about Neighbors helping Neighbors as we promote some of the activities of Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla to our community. You know, this work would not be possible if it were not for men coming together to help our neighbors in need, and that’s only a small part of what this organization is all about. Check out articles on Wakulla.com as well.

As I had mentioned before the format of our gatherings has shifted somewhat; we still gather around 6:30 p.m. for fellowship and refreshments (for those who can make it), then around 7:00 we’ll get into some discussion time from the Stand Firm Daily Devotional for men.  (current books have been ordered). Last week our discussion was on “when men don’t go to church”, it was an interesting discussion. This week we’ll discuss “Wisdom at the Woodshed, Passed over (job related), or  some things about love & family life. The discussion can go most anywhere, we might even talk about what hits your “hot” button!!

Remember, we meet behind Cornerstone Ministries in the doublewide “Outback”, which is behind that big clump of trees & bushes. Swing around to the right of the church and come straight back. We’ll leave the light on for ya’.

By the way, I’ve talked with several people about these News & Up-dates by e-mail and several have said they don’t read their e-mail that often, that being the case, we’re trying to find an ‘inexpensive’ way of communicating the information. If you have any suggestions, that would help. One suggestion might be when you’re hanging around the coffee pot or water cooler or traveling to or from somewhere with a friend or co-worker you might mention us or print a copy and give it to a friend. Word of mouth is the best form of advertising. Thanx

We meet each Thursday @ 6:30 pm Outback at Cornerstone Ministries, If you’re planning on eating with us at the meetings, please call or email us so we can be sure to prepare enough groceries and not waste any. (reservations suggested for late comers) 

Steve Smith, Coordinator
Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla
“Serving God, Family & Community, one man at a time”
P.O. Box 1024
Crawfordville, FL 32326
850-926-3018 (H)
850-508-2560 (C)
Email: MensFraternityofWakulla@byHisgrace.cc

May 13th, 2008

May 7th, 2008

Greetings once again, last week as a result of our efforts, 2 families were made happier and at least two people are now able to lead richer and fuller lives as a result of neighbors helping neighbors.  The building of two more ramps in our county was made possible by the efforts of men caring & sharing their God given skills & talents.  Neighbors helping Neighbors, THANKS MEN!!  (This is only a part of what Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is all about!)

This Saturday I will be at the “1^st Annual “MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY” sponsored by Volunteer-WAKULLA (www.volunteerWAKULLA.org) to promote Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla to our community.  I invite you to stop by and visit to find out more about this ministry and the many opportunities available in our county to share God’s love through volunteering.  In the meantime, we need some men to help complete one of the ramps on the Northside of the county.  If you can assist with that please let me know.  There’s only a couple of hours work left to be done.  Lunch for that day will be provided by Volunteer-Wakulla at Hudson Park @12:30 for volunteers countywide.  Also, I could use some help moving some materials from jobsites to Outback for future projects.

God is really opening doors for this ministry, I hope & pray you seek God’s leadership to see how He would have you a part of it. 

In weeks past I’ve mentioned about the need for a Disaster Relief Team, Hurricane Season will be upon us in about a month and that’s something we need to be thinking about.  I will be meeting very soon with folks from Leon County and Wakulla County Emergency Management as well as the Red Cross with setting something up for training, etc.,etc. for those interested.  If you want to be on board with that you need to let me know asap.

In other news; The video presentation last week about Fathers & Daughters was awesome.  It reached beyond just our daughters, it reached beyond the daughters of our in-laws, our wives, the mothers of our children and the future mothers & daughters of this next generation, and the impact it has on our lives today as fathers & husbands.  This week, (the last in this series), is about ‘A Man and His Life Journey’,.  Dr. Lewis will recap the six stages in our life as men and go into our Manhood Plan Map.  It promises to be an excellent wrap-up to the entire session.  Next week we will begin discussions from the topics in the Stand Firm Daily Devotional for Men.  The devotional addresses many issues we men face but are afraid to face up to. (for details on ordering the Stand Firm Devotionals. (click on Workbooks & Study Guides).  (FYI: your church can order these in bulk quantities and get a discount).  We will get to share those experiences with each other and support each other as we continue our quest for authentic manhood.

 As our network of Men’s Groups from churches around our county grows we’re able lend a helping hand to more and more needy folks and accomplish the mission God called us to do.  It’s a great feeling ‘to be on mission’ and share the fellowship with others.  If your Men’s Group or men from your church are not familiar with Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, please share the word, send them to our Website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ) for details, or better yet, bring ‘em to a meeting.  Ask your Pastor if he’s familiar with Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, if not, share this with him.  We are not looking for church members, “we’re not church”  We are a Faith based organization seeking to serve God, Family & Community, one man at a time.  You can also share this with colleagues at work as well.
 

April 28th, 2008

Nineteen people enjoyed the Quarterly Family Night ‘Last Thursday of the month Bonfire’, last week, along with some awesome fresh mullet, hamburgers, hot dogs and all the fix’ns. Kids & adults both enjoyed the horseshoes & tetherball while waiting for the viddles to be cooked. The fellowship and interaction of families was great….and that’s just part of what Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is all about. (see the pic's on the website)

We welcome the men from Sopchoppy Southern as they will help build a handicap ramp for one of the residents of Sopchoppy this coming Saturday. (If you can help with that build contact LB Brooks @ 251-6594).  Men from Cornerstone Ministries, First Baptist-Crawfordville, St Teresa Episcopal & Wakulla Springs Baptist will be building another ramp in North Wakulla beginning at 8:00 A.M. (if you can help with that build contact Steve Smith @ 508-2560). If you can help all or part of the day we could use the extra hands.

As our network of Men’s Groups from churches around our county grows we’re able lend a helping hand to more and more needy folks and accomplish the mission God called us to do. It’s a great feeling ‘to be on mission’ and share the fellowship with others. If your Men’s Group or men from your church are not familiar with Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, please share the word, send them to our Website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ) for details, or better yet, bring ‘em to a meeting. You can also share this with colleagues at work as well

Don’t forget about the opportunities at the Youth Event at Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center coming up on May 10^th. The attached Flier from Homestead Ministries (Fellowship in the Field Youth Event) (www.fellowshipinthefield.org )will give you more details on this co-sponsored event for you and your kids to participate in, ’as a family affair’! 

ALSO, May 10^th is the 1^st Annual “MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY” sponsored by VOLUNTEER∙WAKULLA (www.volunteerWAKULLA.org) to be held at Hudson Park (and surrounding area’s), an event to honor and celebrate the volunteers in Wakulla County. It’s also a great activity for the whole family to get involved in together, “Neighbors helping Neighbors”.

The Video for this week is about ‘Fathers and Daughters’, so you guys with daughters should be real interested in what Dr. Robert Lewis has to say there. He’s already helped us guys so much with some great insights & helps. Food & Fellowship starts at 6:30 P.M., but come when you can and catch the video and group discussion. (please call for food reservations 508-2560)

If you know of someone who lives in Wakulla County and they're not getting our e-mails, forward this to them or forward their address to us and we'll send 'em a copy.  "...Remember, "Neighbors helping Neighbors".

April 22nd, 2008

This week we will be having our ‘Last Thursday of the Month Bonfire’ AND our Family Night for families.  We’re planning a ‘Fish Fry’ & Hamburger Cook-Out for the entire family and planning on showing the movie “Facing the Giants”.  (an alternate plan may be considered depending on actual response) Please RSVP (reply) so we can plan the amount of food to purchase)  A good time is planned for all.

 Limited discussion will take place pertaining to the up-coming Ramp Build Project scheduled for May 3^rd for Sopchoppy & Crawfordville.  (Please mark your calendar for that date) Details are still being worked out for that build, but the date is firm.  Additional information will be posted on our website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ) as they become available.

 With a larger network of Men’s Groups from churches around our county it won’t be as ‘time taxing’ on each group and we will be accomplishing the mission God called us to do.  If your Men’s Group is not familiar with Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, please share the word, send them to our Website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ) for details. You can share this with colleagues at work as well.

Please RSVP (reply) so we can plan the amount of food to purchase
 

April 15th, 2008

I hope you’ve dried out by now and those muscles ‘you were not used to using’ have relaxed a bit and the ‘next day soreness’ is gone by now.  WOW, what a day of great fellowship and an opportunity to share God’s love to our neighbors through the Ramp Build Project.  Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla had 13 men show up, representing 4 different churches from our community, Man ‘WHAT A BLESSING!!”  Ms. Newby was so happy she couldn’t stop thanking us enough.  God’s love was certainly shown and expressed by all.  THANKS GUYS for your participation and willingness to serve.  Ms. Lisa Raleigh, the coordinator from Rotary came out and was very impressed at the men that worked through the rain to help make it happen.  There were 9 builds in 3 Counties this past Saturday.  Wakulla Springs Baptist Church did one and we did another.  Next week, Lake Ellen Baptist Church will do another, their second, and then there’s a couple more in Sopchoppy scheduled for May 3^rd . We’re making plans to do at least one of those.  I have attached a few pictures for those of you that want to take a look, others will be on our website as soon as we can get them there.

As word gets out and more & more men get involved Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla will grow and we will be able to meet more & more needs of our neighbors.  With a larger network of Men’s Groups from churches around our county it won’t be as ‘time taxing’ on each group and we will be accomplishing the mission God called us to do.  If your Men’s Group is not familiar with Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla, please share the word, send them to our Website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla ) for details. You can share this with colleagues at work as well.

Discussion this week will cover some about this past Saturday’s build, the up-coming opportunity to build another on May 3^rd, Family Night (next Thursday April 24th), and the attached Fellowship in the Field opportunities with Homestead Ministries.  (You turkey hunters will be interested in that) You will want to take a look at that attachment as it has information about another Youth Event at Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center coming up.  The video for this week is about Fathers & Sons so the timing will be great.

If you can’t make it to a meeting at 6:30 p.m. for food & fellowship, come when you can (call for food reservations 508-2560 ) and catch the video and group discussion.

April 9th, 2008

If you missed last weeks presentation of “25 Ways To Be A Servant Leader” you’re in luck.  We got tied up in discussion and never got to the Video so we’ll do it this week.

Discussion was good, plans are in place for us to build a ramp this coming Saturday (weather permitting).  If each of you men attend as indicated we’ll have sufficient help.  In the event of INCLEMENT WEATHER, please call me at 508-2560 before you come out or for directions. 

As part of our discussion this past week, we are considering starting the Video Series (The Quest for Authentic Manhood) from the beginning as many of you were unable to make the early morning times and missed the first 10-12 videos.  This would enable you to get in on the beginning and complete the series.  As was mentioned a couple of weeks ago, the material is great and several indicated they wish they had something like this when they were raising their children or had first gotten married.  It would have changed the way they would have done things.  (your input is important to helping us make these decisions).

Speaking of decisions, I’ve gotten some feed back on the Disaster Relief Team subject but more is needed before we want to press to far forward.  Please get back to me by phone or e-mail with your thoughts.

We now have added to our Website (www.byhisgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla )details on ordering the Stand Firm Devotionals. (click on Workbooks & Study Guides).  (FYI: your church can order these in bulk quantities and get a discount)

MARK YOUR CALENDAR for April 24^th, we’re planning a Family Cook-out on that day, details to be discussed this week.

If you can’t make it to a meeting at 6:30 p.m. for food & fellowship, come when you can (call for food reservations) and catch the video and group discussion.

April 1st, 2008

There’s an old saying; “When the cats away, the mice will play”… Well, last Thursday “this cat” was away and I understand ‘the mice did play’!!,  Excellent attendance I’m told, and a good time was had by all.  Mike introduced an innovative way to cook hamburgers and several shared the positive effects of being involved in Men’s Fraternity and some good insights from the Video’s by Dr. Robert Lewis’s ‘Quest for Authentic Manhood’.    (Thanks guys for your attendance & participation.) 

This week we’ll get back on track with the video’s with the topic  “25 Ways To Be A Servant Leader”.  It promises to be interesting and informative specifically for men.    There are only a few more video’s in this series and then we will begin a more entailed discussion series using the Stand Firm daily devotional published by Lifeway Press.   (details on ordering this devotional will be on our website as soon as I can get them there).

Guys, we’re still needing you to sign up to help with the Ramp Project for April 12^th, (just a week & ½ away ) You can do that by replying to this email, calling me or on our website.  (more information is available by clicking on the ‘Calendar of Events’, then click on April 12^th Ramp Project).  Hopefully I’ll have another update Thursday.

March 26, 2008

This Thursday we will be having our usual "Last Thursday Bonfire & Fellowship" hosted by Mike McCuen (926-8614 or 345-0197).  Mike is planning a sharing type fellowship, where guys can share what the "Quest for Authentic Manhood" has meant to them over the past several months.  John will also be sharing about the Ramp Project and the updates and address on that project.  Guys, WE STILL NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH THAT PROJECT.  Everything is supplied, location, materials, tools, lunch & a Port-a-Potty.  Please let John or myself know if you will be able to help or assist on that project.

Also, we need to get your input on the "Disaster Relief" organizing for Wakulla county.  There will be a Disaster Relief Training on May 3rd in Tallahassee hosted by the Florida Baptist Convention Disaster Relief Director.
 

March 18^h 2008

Because this Thursday is Munday Thursday and most churches represented at Men’s Fraternity Of Wakulla will be having a Service this Thursday evening

WE WILL NOT HAVE A MEETING THURSDAY EVENING (March 20^th)

 We will resume our regular meetings with a Bonfire and a sharing time on Thursday, March 28^th.  Mike McCuen will be in charge of the evening (as I will be out of town).   Mike can be reached at 926-8614 or 345-0197 (c).  I’m sure Mike would welcome any assistance you could offer.

 Guys, please remember our Ramp Project to build ramps for the handicapped.  Our project date is April 12^th,  We still need some volunteers to help construct that ramp.   You can sign up at the meeting or reply to me via e-mail your response to help.  Please include your phone # and name in your reply. (some e-mail addresses don’t show people names)

 Also, please be thinking about the Local Disaster Relief Organization for our County.  We’ll have more on that as it becomes available, but it would be nice to know of your interest. Be sure to check out our website (www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla )periodically for information on Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla as I try to only highlight things in this e-mail each week.

March 12^th 2008

This Thursday I’ll give you an update on the Open House at The Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center from this past Saturday, also, we’ll have an update on the joint Ramp Project with Rotary and Ability 1^st. We have our date, April 12^th , when the Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla Team will be constructing one of the ramps for a handicapped community member.  We will be joining 2 other Teams from Wakulla to construct a total of 3 ramps on that day.  Men, we need some volunteers to help construct that ramp!  We’ll discuss details at Thursdays meeting. 

Another area of need is a ‘Local Disaster Relief’ organization, which we do not have in our county.  Should an emergency occur, such as that tornado that hit St. Marks & Capps last Friday, or the one that tore through North Wakulla a couple of years ago, we do not have a Team or Organization that could be called up on short notice to assist.  These are some of the area’s that we men of Wakulla County can step up to the plate and take care of.  That’s part of what Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is all about.  Without your input and support, all we are is another men’s group that meets once a week.

Join us this Thursday, fellowship, discussion & supper is at 6:30, the video presentation starts around 7:10, (Robert Lewis will cover Part 2 of “A Man and His Wife”, a very interesting and informative session) followed by discussion, sharing & caring time.  We try to get finished by 8:30

March 4^th 2008

Gentlemen,

Last week Mark Winchester came out and we learned a lot about what men need and how Fellowship in the Field is helping to meet that need.  That, coupled with groups like Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla joining in the effort to promote and participate in activities like the Open House of the Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center this weekend enables us men to get involved in a positive fashion with our families throughout our community.  Check on line at www.byHISgrace.cc/MensFraternityofWakulla for more information about the event and events coming up that will allow Fathers and Sons to draw closer to each other. 

We did want to remind you to mark your calendar for this Thursday @ 6:30 p.m. for Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla’s weekly meeting..  Dr. Robert Lewis will be presenting part 1 of “A Man and His Wife”, which will prove to be very interesting and informative.  We are still in the series “A Quest for Authentic Manhood”.  Part of our time will be spent discussing our participation at the Open House and the Ramp Project we’re involved in with the Rotary & Ability 1^st .  We’re still looking for some more men & boys to help with that project.

February 26 2008

We are set to go this Thursday with our Bonfire & Cook-out Fellowship.  We are planning on having Mr. Mark Winchester from Fellowship in the Field with us to tell us a little more about those activities.  (Remember TONIGHT (February 26th they are having their:

 (T-N-T)) Shoot'n-Soup-'n-Sharing at 6:30 PM

. A night just for the guys. An opportunity to brig that friend, co-worker,

neighbor, family member who's on the fringe to enjoy some fun, fellowship, and food. Please give us a call so we can plan for the food. Donation taken to cover cost.  And then on March 14th, Friday night at 6:30 our first M & M night. This time it's a movie, "Flywheel" You can go to their website on the flyer below (attachment) and view several clips.

Hotdogs/hamburgers and snacks will be available along with the movie.)

…Back on task, Mark will be telling us more about the “Beau Turner youth Conservation Center Open House” coming up on March 8^th. (I’ve attached a flier on that that you’ll want to take a look at) and Fellowship in the Field. Things are really moving with Men’s Ministry in North Florida and Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is a part of it!!  Plan to be with us this Thursday at 6:30 PM, and plan with us.

February 19, 2008

trust you had an enjoyable Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart and the meal you shared would get at least ‘honorable mention’ compared to the great groceries you get at Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla each Thursday evening.

We will resume our regular Thursday night gathering this Thursday, Feb 21^st, so please mark your calendar and plan to attend. (Reservations requested) And don’t forget to mark next week as well, Feb 29^th for the last Thursday Bonfire & Cook-out.  I’m hoping to have a guest speaker with us for that night with some very exciting information. 

Speaking of exciting information, by God’s providential guidance, I had the opportunity of having breakfast with one of our partnering churches men’s ministry groups and learned of a “partnering project” we could participate in.  The project is to build wheelchair ramps for the handicapped in our community.  As this was one of the very first projects Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla wanted to undertake, I could see God’s hand all over it.  Anyway, ramp locations, plans, materials and lunch are all being supplied on site, plus a port-a-potty, to accomplish the task.  We, along with several churches and other groups in the area would supply the labor.  The opening project is to build 22 ramps in a 4 county area, many of which are right here in Wakulla County. Now that’s going to take some manpower.  Here’s the deal, many churches or groups may not have enough men to form a team of 8-10 men (per ramp project) to get involved, so we can unite them through Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla to form those teams from smaller groups or churches wanting to help.  It is the perfect opportunity to work side by side with other men in our community meeting needs and fellowshipping with the love of Christ. 

Please talk about this among your friends, Sunday School groups, Study groups, and social gatherings.  I would ask this, if your church or group has not been contacted, or if you’re unable to put a team together but have interest in helping, please let me know so we can coordinate teams from Wakulla County to accomplish this very needed mission task.  There is no cost involved, even lunch is provided on site.  Individuals or groups are needed.  The anticipated dates for this operation is mid April.  We’ll have more information on this at our meetings as it becomes available.

February 12, 2008

February 6, 2008

Hey, if you missed our gathering last week, you missed some good groceries and great fellowship.  We had some guys come out from Promise Land Ministries and share some time with us.  There were 23 of us total…what a blessing!   We ate, talked & shared around the campfire and just had a great time of fellowship together. The bonfire started out so big we had to call 911 to let them know it was a “controlled burn”.  They thanked us for the call and 30 minutes later there was a barrage of red lights & sirens speeding past our door, it was ‘hold your breath for a moment or two’

I’m not going to bore you with all those details. I’m just going to invite you to come check us out.  Maybe you and some friends need some “get-away time”, maybe the men in your church or Sunday school class need some fellowship time with purpose, we think Men’s Fraternity of Wakulla is a great place to start.  We’ve got some things coming up that are sure to please and getting in on the start up is half the fun.

We’ve got our website up, (www.byhisgrace.cc/mensfraternityofwakulla) but still under construction, so you can keep up with what’s going on, but there’s nothing like being part of the action.  We hope to see you Thursday night,