“God moves in a mysterious way, his wonders to perform,” begins an old favorite spiritual song. It’s truly evident in the Jacksonville Church of Christ.
An idea began with a group of men inspired by the faith of a mom in their growth group. She raises two young foster children as well as her own three, and her husband is deployed in the Navy. This seed planted a desire to meet the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of young boys, especially young fatherless boys in the Jacksonville church and community through an afterschool and mentoring program.
Unknown to them at the time, were the prayers of HOPE worldwide Chapter Directors Jim & Debbie Mackie who were seeking ways to serve single mothers with young children, as they themselves are parents of a young single mom with four children. In February, the Mackies hosted a lunch for single moms with an opportunity for them to share their desires for support and direction in a number of areas. As a result, future single mom programs were considered.
Meanwhile, in March, that group of men shared their ideas with Jim and a great partnership was created with the Jacksonville Church of Christ and HOPE worldwide—thus, Boyz to MEN was launched and prayers were answered all around.
The 10 men who initially committed to making this work are fathers with their grown sons, coaches, and others seeking to provide young boys the positive influence and time they so desperately crave and need. Many of these children cannot participate in organized sports due to their economic situation.
HOPE worldwide will support them with resources and additional volunteers as needed. The Jacksonville church was very excited at the announcement and responded with a very emotional standing ovation for the leadership of Pui-Sing Tang, Nate Nelson, Earl Maiten and others. The Kids Quest Sunday coordinators also helped to coordinate and support the need for this type of effort. We are all so excited about the possibilities and the opportunity to impact these young boys and their families through Boyz to MEN!
