Men's Ministries

Welcome to the Upper Columbia Conference men’s ministries department 

We exist to equip and empower men to become men of God, willing to stand up and take the gospel message of hope and wholeness to the world. It is our goal to raise of leaders who will in turn lead the men in their community to faithful service to Jesus Christ. 

We provide training and certification in men’s ministry leadership, a library of excellent resources for leading a local men’s ministry, and links to some of the best information and resources available in North America for empowering the men of your church. 

It is our prayer that through our ministry you may become a, “man of God…thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:17) 

The Mission

• The Gospel of Jesus Christ (He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation — Mark 16:15. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. — Mark 13:10)
• Go and make disciples of all (Therefore go and make disciples of all nations — Matt. 28:19)
• Heaven (And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens — Mark 13:27)

The Men

• Gather all men to ME (And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me) — John 12:32
• Go and make disciples of all (Therefore go and make disciples of all nations … — Matt. 28:19
• HE wants all men to be saved (For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.  For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus) — 1 Timothy 2:4
• Men should pray everywhere (I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting).  — 1 Timothy 2:8



& Me

• Humble ourselves in the sight of the LORD (Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. James 4:10)
• Cast all our cares on HIM (Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you — 1 Peter 5:7)
• Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths — Proverbs 3:5-6
• Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. Love your neighbor as yourself — Mark 12:28-34



Upcoming Events

Men's Summit 2026 — March 13-15, 2026

More information will be posted soon.

Men's Retreats: Are They Worth It?

Since 1989 Keith Stafford and Steve Nicola have engaged in the Northern California Conference's Christian Men's Retreat at Leoni Meadows Camp. During this podcast Keith and Steve will share why men's retreats have been so important to them throughout the years and why you should attend! 



ROI: Why Men's Retreats Are Worth It!

Most men are very aware of what's called ROI, "Return on Investment." If we are going to invest time, money, and energy on something we want it to pay out some positive dividends. This is true whether it's purchasing a car or attending church. We all want value!

So, are men's retreats a good investment? What is the return on investment? While there are many factors that determine your actual return on investment here is a list of why men's retreats are worth it. Here goes... 

1. Spiritual Growth and Renewal

• Encounter with God: A retreat creates space away from the noise of daily life, giving men the chance to reconnect with God through prayer, worship, and teaching. 
• Biblical Insights: Focused teaching on scripture equips men with practical ways to live out their faith. 
• Spiritual Reset: It’s often seen as a chance to refresh their spiritual walk when routines have grown stale. 

2. Brotherhood and Community

• Meaningful Relationships: Many Christian men feel isolated; a retreat provides a brotherhood of like-minded believers. 
• Iron Sharpens Iron: Men sharpen each other through conversation, testimonies, and accountability. 
• Support Network: New friendships often extend beyond the weekend, becoming ongoing sources of encouragement. 

3. Personal Renewal

• Rest and Recreation: Time away from work and family responsibilities can help men recharge mentally, emotionally, and physically. 
• Safe Environment: Retreats allow men to be vulnerable and honest about struggles without judgment. 
• Rediscovery of Purpose: They can reflect on calling, priorities, and life direction. 

4. Strengthening Roles and Responsibilities

• As Husbands and Fathers: Teaching often emphasizes how to love their wives and lead their children with integrity. 
• In the Church and Community: Men gain vision for serving as spiritual leaders and role models. 
• Personal Integrity: Retreats encourage growth in character, discipline, and accountability. 

5. Why Spend the Time and Money?

• Eternal Investment: They view it as investing in their soul, marriage, family, and ministry. 
• Kingdom Mindset: Many men recognize that spiritual growth requires intentional sacrifice. 
• Return on Investment: The benefits—stronger faith, healthier relationships, renewed purpose—far outweigh the cost. 

Summary

A Christian man will attend a men’s retreat because it promises renewal, brotherhood, and transformation — things he can’t easily find in the busyness of everyday life. The cost of time and money is justified by the eternal and relational impact.