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Survey focuses on United Methodist men
 Oct. 3, 2005
By Rich Peck*
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) — Do most men in the United
Methodist Church believe the Bible is the inerrant word of God, or do
they believe it is the word of God to be interpreted in the light of its
historical context and the church’s teachings?
How much time do men spend in private devotional activities?
What type of music does a man prefer in worship?
How much does a man give to his congregation?
These and other questions are included in an online
questionnaire developed by the churchwide Commission on United
Methodist Men.
The commission is inviting all men who are members of the United Methodist Church to visit http://www.gcumm.org/
and click on “UMC Men’s Study - Individual” to answer 45 questions
about their congregation, faith, involvement, history, family and
theology.
The survey will enable researchers to tabulate
demographic data with church activities, theological viewpoints and
reasons for participating (or refusing to participate) in various
groups.
The online survey is the second of two studies
launched as the result of action taken by the 2004 General Conference in
Pittsburgh. Delegates to the top legislative body of the 10
million-member denomination intended the study
to help the commission “develop effective resources, respond to current
needs, challenge long-held assumptions and develop effective
strategies” for reaching men. The study committee will report its
findings to the 2008 General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas.
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Bishop William W. Morris |
Last year, pastors and church leaders were asked to
fill out a questionnaire about the participation of men in various
church programs, study groups and activities. This year, the
questionnaire is also online at http://www.gcumm.org/ (click on “Local Church Men’s Ministry Survey).
The two surveys will enable the Nashville-based
commission to understand what programs, study groups and ministries are
being offered by local churches, and how individual men think the
churches are meeting their spiritual and emotional needs.
“The information from the two surveys will help the
commission provide more relevant men’s ministry resources, training and
strategies that increase the effectiveness of local churches with men,”
said Bishop William W. Morris, the commission’s interim top staff
executive. Survey results will also enable pastors and church leaders to
understand the particular needs and interests of men.
Information about the surveys is available from the commission at (615) 340-7145 or gcumm@gcumm.org.
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