Rise up Men of Faith

It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. - Ephesians 1:11

Lloyd & Dallas getting pumped up for outdoor 'body-painting'

My good friend, Dallas Pelly, joined me in resourcing the Canadian Mennonite University's Outtatown men's retreat at Camp Evergreen October 16-21. Outtatown Evergreen

Dallas & Lloyd enjoying an outdoor lunch in Canmore, preparing for the evening session. 

"Can I talk with you Lloyd?" Dan asked after our fireside worship time under the cool nights star-filled sky in the foothills of the Rockies. Dan has been living out the life Jesus restored in him for a few years.  He has walked away from a life of compromise and simply needed to reaffirm his commitment to purity and pursuit of godliness. Dan is the only Christian in his family, raised by a single mother and elderly grandparents and this evening he was simply looking for a surrogate dad to speak words of encouragement, strength and comfort. Outtatown is another step of obedience for Dan in pursuing God and being intentional about his personal discipleship. What an honour to talk, pray and be men of faith sharing the journey together! I believe that Dan will be a great teacher of the scriptures and role model for many in the coming years.

I was very impressed by the leaders of these sites and their commitment to the discipleship of these young men. Please join me in praying for CMU male leaders Tim, Peter, John & Zach. They have a unique opportunity to mentor/disciples young men of faith. This is front line ministry for this generations' leaders. 

This was a new type of speaking engagement for me as I have never been on a men's retreat. I had some anxiety about the unknown. However, God's peace was extended to me as the weekend rolled out. Dallas and I had opportunity to pray and prepare together each day. The men all leaned in as we shared our stories of identity, relationships and sexuality. My anxiety was quickly replaced by a desire to help these men face their journey with God, each other and their spheres of influence. 

Driving became an other highlight. Each time we left the camp for an excursion a few guys joined us in our rental car. This was a great time to talk, ask questions and invest in a small group of guys. 

Taking a break to boulder in the new Elevation Place in Canmore.