Upcoming Michigan Men's Gathering Shows Benefits of Partnering with LHM
 "We have a strong group of men, but until recently we haven't had an active men's ministry," says Rev. Dan Hahn, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Sebewaing, Michigan. Since introducing resources from LHM Men's NetWork at Immanuel, Hahn has noticed a change.
"About 25 men have been participating in the Men's NetWork Bible studies we've presented," he says. "They've really enjoyed the studies and are now talking about reaching out—sharing the benefits of the Men's NetWork with others and looking for additional ministry and service opportunities. That's how the idea for Fire and Ice came about."
The first-ever Fire and Ice Men's Gathering, Hahn says, will be held Feb. 12-13 at Bay Shore Camp in Sebewaing, which sits on the inside of Michigan's "Thumb," right on the shore of Saginaw Bay. Men 18 years of age and older have been invited from Lutheran congregations throughout both of the Thumb's circuits to this rugged winter fellowship event.
"This is the first time in about 10 years," Hahn adds, "that congregations in the circuits of the Thumb have done something together."
Friday the 12th will feature a bonfire. "We hope to provide ways to remind guys that the fire of Fire and Ice is not just the bonfire activity but also the power of the Holy Spirit moving among us," says Hahn.
Activities on Saturday the 13th will include ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ice golf. LHM's Rich Cohrs will lead a presentation on "Man as Spiritual Leader in the Worlds of Family and Church."
As Men's NetWork turns one year old in January 2010, Lutheran Hour Ministries is excited to learn that this still-young program is helping congregations like Immanuel impact lives and serve as rallying points for men desiring to re-dedicate themselves to spiritual growth and leadership. LHM has developed programs such as Men's NetWork and Equipping to Share with congregations in mind, building into them real, practical tools for outreach and service in Jesus' name.
Lutheran Hour Ministries programs such as Men's NetWork succeed in part because of funding from ministry-minded individuals, groups, and congregations. One way for you and your congregation to show your support this year is to celebrate Lutheran Hour Ministries Sunday. LHM Sunday is a great opportunity for congregations to learn about Lutheran Hour Ministries' bold proclamation of God's Word and LHM's resources for outreach and equipping. The goal of sharing LHM's mission with Christians is to inspire them to partner with Lutheran Hour Ministries through prayer, active involvement in LHM programs, and financial support.
The official date of LHM Sunday 2010 is Feb. 7, but you can choose any other Sunday that suits your church calendar. To download LHM Sunday resources such as a tip sheet for holding an LHM Sunday celebration, talking points, a doctrinally approved sermon, children's sermon, and order of service, and more, visit www.lhm.org/LHMSunday. If you need more information or have questions about the materials your congregation receives, please call 1-800-876-9880.
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