Scottish Mission Men’s Ministry Introduces P.R.E.P. Framework for 2026

The role of Men’s Ministry within the church was the central focus of the recent Scottish Mission Men’s Ministry Leaders Workshop, where leaders explored whether the department functions merely as an administrative unit or as a vital support system for men’s spiritual and emotional wellbeing.

Held to discuss future leadership and engagement strategies across congregations, the workshop introduced a new strategic framework for 2026 known as P.R.E.P.

P.R.E.P. Model Launched

The P.R.E.P. framework aims to shift Men’s Ministry activities toward deeper spiritual development and practical coordination. The model comprises four components:

• Pray

• Reason

• Educate

• Plan

Leaders at the workshop stated that the framework is intended to move meetings beyond simple administration and into spaces of spiritual growth, mutual support, and actionable planning.

Time Management and Men’s Wellbeing

The keynote address, “Time Management: The Balancing Act,” was delivered by Elder Owen Anderson of the Edinburgh Seventh-day Adventist Church. Anderson questioned whether Men’s Ministry receives the level of commitment proportionate to the challenges men face today.

His presentation highlighted what he described as a “silent epidemic,” pointing to the pressures men often encounter, including financial strain, relationship instability, and experiences of discrimination. He referenced UK statistics indicating that men account for approximately 74% of all suicides, underscoring the mental health challenges within male populations.

Referencing Stephen Covey’s time-management matrix*, Anderson encouraged attendees to prioritise activities that build long-term wellbeing rather than focusing exclusively on urgent tasks. He also stressed the value of mentorship, urging men to seek guidance from individuals “a chapter ahead” in life.

Identified Challenges

During the workshop, leaders outlined several internal and external challenges affecting Men’s Ministry engagement:

• Internal Engagement: Inconsistent participation and limited motivation are affecting local programmes, with calls for clearer pathways for men to serve and ensuring they understand their role and purpose within church communities.

• The “Squeezed Middle”: Many men report difficulty balancing employment, family, and church responsibilities.

• External Pressures: Congregations are increasingly supporting men dealing with immigration issues, ethnic discrimination, and career uncertainties.

Action Plan Announced

The Scottish Mission Men’s Ministry announced several initiatives planned for 2026:

• Mentorship Initiatives: Collaborative mentorship programmes will be developed with Youth and Women’s Ministries to support young adults, new members, and individuals navigating major life transitions.

• Addressing Real Issues: Workshops and events will address subjects frequently considered sensitive or taboo, including mental health, loneliness, and immigration concerns. Organisers indicated that external professionals may be invited to contribute.

• Community Outreach Projects: Following the success of recent visitation programmes and gospel music festivals, the ministry intends to continue outreach efforts aimed at reconnecting men who have disengaged from church life and strengthening ties with the wider community.

Structural Observations and Future Direction

Delegates noted that the updated global church manual does not include a dedicated Men’s Ministry department, placing greater responsibility on local regions to provide structure and support.

Quarterly mission-wide meetings and regular local P.R.E.P. sessions are planned to maintain momentum. Organisers are seeking volunteers to assist with mentorship planning and community support programmes.