Something that started as a group of men just going on a fishing trip, has become more than any of us could have ever imagined.

The Beginning

There was a vision. This vision was one of fellowship and worship. Shortly after giving his life to Christ and becoming radically saved, all Jamie McAnelly wanted to do was share that “Good News” of Jesus with others. With a love of fishing and the outdoors, the thought was to create an environment to enjoy those things with brothers who share that same love of Christ. And so it began in August of 2007 simply as an outing of church friends going to stay on the river and fish. We would stay in the cabins, fish on the river, and eat some awesome meals. But that wasn’t enough. We had to have a church service too. And this is where God took over!! It was amazing to see these men let down their guards and reveal their love for Christ through out the weekend. But the pinnacle of the entire trip was one of the men giving their life to Christ and getting saved at the conclusion of the trip. This is where the fire was lit!! The focus of the trip started to change from that point on.

Over the years

As each summer would approach the question was always the same, “Are we having the fishing trip again this year?” And each year the answer was the same, “Yes!!” With each new year we would see new faces as new groups would be added. As each year came the trip would experience areas of growth and learning. The trip was becoming more. It had become an actual “Ministry”.

As we came to accommodate more numbers as well as those from other churches, we had to start evolving to be more of what Jesus’ example was. To serve, rather than be served. From a trip where men would pay to come enjoy themselves and relax, and watch Jamie about kill himself trying to be a one-man show (because he’s a control freak). To men saying “give me some of that work” and “I want to help”. As the attendance grew the need of a staff was evident. A select group of men emerged out of this and became the “Fishers of Men”. The amazing thing about this group of men was, they would pay the same registration fee (room and board, fishing) as everyone else. But rather than relax and be served, their joy was to serve and make the experience the best it could be for those in attendance. They are always the first up and the last to bed, making sure everything is taken care of.

reaching Out

Fishers of Men Ministries has become much more than just an annual trip to the river. Although this is the model of our ministry, it by no means is the limit. Fishers of Men Ministries has stepped into the youth ministry arena as well. We have joined forces with the local School districts and churches to bring in speakers who are able to share about drug awareness mixed with their faith in Christ. Fishers of Men making an impact through fellowships, assemblies, 5th quarters, and See You at the Pole meetings.

Fishers of Men Ministries has also taken a step toward a united vision for the community of churches. Playing an active role in the joint efforts of the local churches through spring and harvest festivals. This year Fishers of Men Ministries was key in the coordination of a “Community Crusade” that involved multiple churches, ministries, and community groups to create a week of revival services at 3 different churches and 4 school districts.

Our heart is to bring the same unity that we have experienced through a simple fishing trip to an entire community of believers.

John 13:35 “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”