The men’s barbecue is definitely a highlight in the summer calendar at St Mary’s – always well attended by men (and older teenagers) from across the various congregations. This year was no exception. There must have been 50-60 people enjoying a drink and a chat on the decking, catching the last sunrays of the evening before heading inside for a sit-down meal – excellent pulled pork on buns with gravy, complemented by an array of salads that people brought in to share. Thank you to Adam Stylo and the team for organising this part of the evening – really fantastic.
Whilst finishing off eating, Ian Miller spoke, at times in a funny and light-hearted way, about toxic masculinity and how the likes of Andrew Tait poison the minds of impressionable youngsters with a rhetoric that sounds attractive yet is diametrically opposed to the message of the Bible. Rather than imposing ourselves on others in an attempt to control them, we as Christians believe we should humble ourselves and serve others.
The evening came to an end with animated (in a good way!) conversations around each of the tables and we left well fed – both spiritually and physically.
If you haven’t been to one of these barbecues yet, then try to book next year – so much fun to hang out with like-minded folk! See you there!