Rise Up: Scouts, men to gather for joint event at Journey UMC

By Jessica Brodie

COLUMBIA—South Carolina men are seeking to revitalize their spirit and their collective ministry, gathering late this month for their annual spiritual retreat.

On Feb. 21-22, United Methodist men of all ages will head to Journey Church for ““Rise Up! Rise Up! Steps of a Good Man,” a theme taken from Psalm 37:23-25, which shares how the Lord strengthens the steps of those who walk with him.

“If you have never been to our Men N Ministry annual conference or you have been many times, with our lineup of speakers you will be spiritually filled as never before,” said Kenny Bingham, president of the South Carolina Conference United Methodist Men.

Speakers include new South Carolina Resident Bishop Leonard Fairley, along with Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, now of the Alabama-West Florida Conference; Steven Scheid, scouting coordinator for the General Commission of UMMen; and Bishop James Swanson, GCUMM general secretary.

“Our theme will become a part of your life for years to come,” Bingham said. “Don’t miss this opportunity for God to work in your life.”

The two-day event will feature a golf tournament that Friday at The Spur at Northwoods Golf Course, a “Cigars and Scriptures” fellowship event Friday evening, a weekend Scout Jamboree and powerful speaking about important issues and struggles facing men in the church today.

Every man in South Carolina is invited regardless of age, race or denomination.

The scout program will run concurrently with the men’s retreat, with many of the sessions overlapping. For example, the scouts and the men will participate together in a flag raising, as well as share lunch and an intergenerational panel, where all age groups can learn from each other.

Signs up continue, and churches are still welcome to become sponsors.

To learn more or register, visit https://mennministrysc.org.