Men of Promise - San Gabriel Mission Parish

    Just about a year ago, a member of Men Of Promise ministry cordially introduced himself at the conclusion of Mass. He gave me a brief description of Men Of Promise and invited me to attend their next scheduled meeting that coming Saturday. Although mild in his approach, I was suspicious and guarded as if I had been approached by a salesman of some sort.

    Nevertheless, I accepted the invitation and assured the gentleman that I would do my best to attend. As I walked away, I must’ve thought of a least a dozen excuses not to attend. After all, I’m a very busy guy. I have a calendar full of things to do. Furthermore, what was I going to be able to contribute to this group? With a name like "Men of Promise” I was sure that this was a group of hardcore Catholic men, who probably quizzed each other on scriptures as a warm up exercise before each meeting.

    As I continued down my list of excuses, I began to reflect on the many years I had practiced my faith on my own. Never having enough time to get involved but always having the urge to become involved. How many times had the Church become just a lifeless building after I had celebrated the Eucharist with so much zeal?

    Consequently, I decided to attend the Saturday morning meeting. I found a group of men of various ages discussing God’s word and attempting to discern its applicability in their lives and in today’s world. Men who have the courage to build up their brothers in Christ by sharing their challenges and experiences. Real challenges like anxiety, illness, military service, loss of employment and divorce. They’ve also shared real joys, such as marriage, the birth of a child or a new career.

    I bet you thought you were the only guy in church going through one or more of the challenges mentioned. Obviously you’re not.

    Although the Devil would want you to think that you’re all alone, don’t forget he is a liar, a thief, and a destroyer. He wants nothing more than to keep you in shame, fear, anxiety, anger and isolation, away from supportive people and God’s word.

    So make the move toward a group of supportive men trying to live their lives in Christ Jesus.

    I can’t guarantee an answer or a solution to the challenges you may be facing. I can guarantee that by attending Men Of Promise you will find a compassionate, non-judgmental, and confidential group of men willing stand by your side and pray with you as God works out his plan for your life.

Fernando Lopez