In a world where church attendance statistics reveal a striking gender disparity—with a ratio of 60% women to 40% men in North America—a crucial question emerges: Why are men staying away from church? Charles Burkeen, pastor and author of "A Place for Us Guys," shares revealing insights about this phenomenon and proposes practical solutions.The Male …
In a world where church attendance statistics reveal a striking gender disparity—with a ratio of 60% women to 40% men in North America—a crucial question emerges: Why are men staying away from church? Charles Burkeen, pastor and author of “A Place for Us Guys,” shares revealing insights about this phenomenon and proposes practical solutions.
The Male Dilemma in Modern Church
Meet Cliff, a typical example of the modern man: hardworking, entrepreneurial, adventure-loving, and dedicated to his family. He drives a 4×4, owns a motorcycle, and enjoys outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. However, like many men, Cliff finds church “boring and irrelevant.”
This perception isn’t an isolated case. According to Burkeen, there’s a fundamental disconnect between the traditional image of church and masculine nature. “When we go to church, we’re told to put on a tie, sit down, and be nice,” he explains. “But that’s certainly not God’s vision for men.”
Redefining the Image of Jesus and Christian Masculinity
A significant part of the problem lies in the contemporary image of Jesus. Far from the common representation of a fragile, delicate man, the gospels describe a Galilean carpenter with calloused hands, a brave leader who wasn’t afraid to confront injustice. As Burkeen points out, “Jesus was a powerful man who wasn’t afraid of or intimidated by anyone.”
His disciples were no different: robust fishermen accustomed to intense physical work, men who embodied both strength and faith.
Practical Solutions for a More Inclusive Church
Consider several approaches to make church more welcoming for men:
- Rethinking Spiritual Activities: Worship can take many forms. One church member found his deepest connection with God while chopping firewood for elderly congregation members.
- Practical Ministries: Implementing programs where men can serve using their practical skills, such as home repairs for widows or yard maintenance.
- Creative Worship: Incorporating visual and practical elements into services. For example, one church illustrated Christ’s redemptive work by physically building a bridge during the service.
The Spiritual Battle: A Call to Action
Christianity isn’t just about love and gentleness; it also involves a spiritual battle. As Burkeen reminds us, “If there’s a God, if there’s a Jesus, there’s also an enemy.” This warrior perspective of Christianity resonates with many men, especially in the context of protecting and guiding their families.
Conclusion: Beyond Church Walls
Christian faith is much more than sitting in a church pew. It’s an adventure that can be lived out in nature, at work, or in service to others. As Burkeen emphasizes, “Church happens wherever we are: in the woods cutting trees, on a mountaintop watching the sunrise, or riding a motorcycle and giving glory to God.”
The message is clear: the church needs to reclaim its masculine dimension without losing its compassionate essence. Only then can it truly reflect the fullness of God’s character: both warrior and love, both strong and tender.
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Minner Labrador Jr.
Dr. Labrador earned his degrees from Southern Adventist University in Collegedale, Tennessee, Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Boston, Massachusetts. He is a Pastor, Author, Revivalist and Administrator.
Pastor Labrador has almost 30 years of experience in pastoral ministry and has served as the Director of Men’s Ministries across Florida, the Carolinas, and throughout North America. His pastoral experience includes serving as a senior pastor in both multi-church districts and single-church districts, as well as in a multi-pastoral church setting.
Additionally, he has contributed to Men’s Ministries as a radio talk show host in Tampa Bay, Florida, and has hosted several Men’s Ministries television series for Hope Channel. He is the recipient of the prestigious lifetime achievement award in North America for his pioneering work and excellence in Men’s Ministries.
