Mighty Men excludes women ?

The Mighty Men is preparing for their biggest show of strength yet; in fact, they promise a rally of over 200 000 men on the farm in Greytown. Whilst there has been a debate over many things related to the theology of Angus Buchan and the multi-million rand industry that has developed around the once humble potato farmer, it may remain a movement that inspire hope.

Buchan is clear that he want to address the needs of men in their struggle, in the new South African and new world. He states, 'Man's masculinity in the world today, in this 21st century is being eroded and broken down. And young men-some young men- don't know what a man is supposed to be!. He has made some very hopeful statements by challenging men to take up their responsibility in this country and not to run away. But it seems, at least in terms of the numbers, that his appeal is only (or mostly!) for white men. Buchan does not specifically deals with the question why the movement is predominantly coming from the white community, in particular the Afrikaans community. One could argue that this movement was jolted into the Afrikaans media after a men's conference on the biblical figure (Daniel) at the whites-only, Afrikaans NG Kerk, Moraletapark, with endorsements from NG dominee, Bennie Mosterd. The movement is however not confined to these and the fact that this movement have effectively by-passed the mega-churches of our time, but also the once powerful mainline churches, indicate a shift in ecclesial power. Then, it also seems as if issues like credibility, or truthfulness, is not rooted in the formal education or ecclesial letters of credence, but somewhere else. Buchan makes it clear that he's never been to 'Bible College', but to 'the school of hard knocks' and that he listens to God and God speaks to him and that he simply acts on behalf of Jesus.

The biggest worry, of course, remains the forthright exclusivist nature of this movement. Mighty Men, are clear that they only for men. In fact, they would asks followers to come, without women or girls. This suggest that they have essentialist views of gender, but also leadership within the house, within the church. Only men are suppose to be leaders in the church. These type of ideas evidently establish a kind of masculinity that, maybe does not address the challenges raised and therefore what is needed rather, is movements who includes, builds partnerships and affirms the dignity of humanity.

Let me conclude to again, plead a process of open discussion and dialogue, as we, as Christians struggle to be responsive to the challenges we face.