“Church is too boring for men,” says [Ed] Trainer. “For men, I think the great outdoors can be a cathedral. Men open up when they’re out on the water. It’s a place they can share their fears, problems and vulnerability.”
For more than a decade, Trainer has operated International Fishing Ministries out of the large home he shares with his wife and ministry partner, Barbara. Their property near a marina is crammed with fishing rods, mounted fish and scores of photos of men holding big salmon, sturgeon and other fish.
Trainer said he became a “fisher of men,” a phrase based on one of Jesus’ admonitions to his disciples, because he became bored with so many ministers’ sermons.
“Church is set up like a country club for women. For me, after five minutes of a sermon, I’m off in my mind fishing on some stream somewhere. Other men are thinking about the hockey game.”
I believe our Lord said “..I will make you fishers of men (all persons I’m sure)..” Peter soon learned the difference and left his fishing gear behind. I do not condemn those who want to get away in a silent time on the bank or in a boat. But our Lord did emphasize the need of gathering together; “..where two or three are gathered together in my name there am I in the midst of them..” and boats or fishing gear was not mentioned. Enjoy the fishing trips but “..neglect not the congregating of yourselves for with such is God well pleased.”