Men’s ministry leaders gathered online recently to reflect on the needs of Catholic men in Australia and how the Church can best respond to the challenges facing men today.

Almost 20 leaders joined Archbishop Christopher Prowse, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Evangelisation, Laity and Ministry (BCELM) on July 23 to share their insights into men’s ministry and their hopes for the future.

The online gathering was part of the recommendations approved by the BCELM when it met earlier this year, with the aim of highlighting and supporting men’s ministry in Australia at parish and diocesan levels.

Archbishop Prowse told those gathered men’s ministry has an important role to play in the life of the Church.

“There is a tremendous need,” he said. “When you look at the socio-economic statistics, men in Australia are in a very vulnerable state.

“There are huge challenges with men in farming, rural areas where things like depression and rural suicide is quite significant.

“In city areas… addictions to pornography, alcohol, and gambling are also signs of great loneliness.”

The men’s ministry leaders shared their insights into what they are hearing and seeing within their networks and groups, with some common themes emerging.

Several leaders noted a growing “spiritual hunger” among young men, reflecting a sincere search for meaning and purpose and a feeling of dissatisfaction with what the world can offer them.

Another common theme was the desire of men to connect with other men, to be supported and accompanied in their faith journey, and to be able to share their struggles in a safe environment.

One of the challenges facing men’s ministry that the leaders noted is the financial pressures on men, which can negatively impact their ability to commit to being a part of a men’s group or attend a men’s event.

The leaders also discussed their hopes for men’s ministry in Australia, expressing a desire to collaborate more and to provide mentorship for younger leaders.

In closing the meeting, Archbishop Prowse encouraged attendees to ensure their ministries remained “at the foot of the cross”, gathered around the vulnerable Jesus, to ensure that they continue to “change hearts”.

The National Centre for Evangelisation will continue to support and promote men’s ministry in Australia. Resources, articles and networks can be found at https://nce.catholic.org.au/people-of-god/men

Words: Matthew Biddle