Men's Ministries
Mission of Men's Ministries
The mission of the Men's Ministries at West Side is to foster opportunities for the men of the church and the broader community to:
• grow our individual and collective relationship with God
• deepen our understanding of the power of prayer
• connect with other men on a personal and spiritual level
• expand the awareness of what is possible in all aspects of our lives
• serve others as Christians within the church, as well as the community at large.
The Well is a core group of men who have committed to the mission of our men's ministry and to serving as administrative leaders for the Fountain meetings. We meet monthly with Rev. Oehler to share our journeys of faith together, reflect on Jesus' words about leadership, and consider how to serve the men of West Side and beyond. The meetings are open to anyone but men who participate are invited and encouraged to take an active role as leaders.
The Fountain is an open group for men who are interested in joining other men in fellowship, learning, and service. The monthly meetings in the Barn generally include the sharing of a meal, conversation, and some exploration of a topic related to our faith or to service as Christians. The Fountain also looks to engage men within and beyond West Side Presbyterian Church, supporting and partnering with ministries of West Side and the larger community.
Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, 'Out of the believer's heart shall flow rivers of living water.' — John 7:37a-38
If you are interested in becoming involved in Men's Ministries at West Side, contact
Rev. Marc Oehler (ext. 18) or Carol Walton (ext. 11).
Men's Retreat 2013
West Side Men's Retreat for 2013 was held Friday, April 19th to Saturday, April 20, led by Rev. Dr. Gareth Icenogle at Stony Point Center, Stony Point, NY. The theme was "Alpha Male to Omega Man--How to be a Christian man in an increasingly secular world."
Men's Retreat 2012
West Side men at the Men's Retreat at Carmel Retreat Center in Mahwah
Hiking at the Men's Retreat
March Men's Retreat a Resounding Success
A
total of 35 West Side men participated in the recent 2012 Men's
Retreat held at Carmel Retreat Center in Mahwah on March 16th and
17th. Although sharing our common connection to West Side, we were at the
same time a diverse group, incorporating different philosophies and opinions
and ranging in age from early 20's to mid 80's. As is often the case
leading up to Men's retreats, there existed a certain level of anxiety among
the men, and some might have even admitted to feeling a bit cynical about how
all of this would turn out.
It was at about that point that Marc took charge of things. Our own Marc Oehler had graciously consented to lead our retreat, and, as it all turned out, what a "treat" it was! Marc conceived of the entire program and presented it from beginning to end with great passion, enthusiasm, and love for all in attendance. There were group sessions, break-out sessions, prayer sessions, individual testimonials, times set aside for quiet reflection, and even recreation--all individually inspiring, yet together creating a wonderful and uniquely male mosaic that we will each remember for a long, long time. Thanks to Marc and all the other men who planned and participated in this powerful worship and fellowship experience. Those who helped plan the retreat are Randy Ruger (chairperson), Jim Heuer, Gene Rogers, John Campi, John Butler, Bill Burdick, Mark Smith, Deniz Onal, Don Reeder, and Gary Burrell.