Rekindling the Flame: Ceferino Epps Reflects on the 2025 National Men’s and Scouting Gathering

Ceferino Epps, President of the Baltimore-Washington Conference United Methodist Men, recently returned from a soul-stirring journey to Epworth by the Sea on St. Simon’s Island, Georgia. From July 31 to August 3, he joined more than 100 men from across the country for the 2025 National Men’s and Scouting Gathering—a weekend filled with worship, fellowship, and renewal.

“It wasn’t just another conference,” Ceferino shared. “It felt like a holy pause—time set apart to reconnect with God, with brothers in Christ, and with our shared purpose as men of faith.”

Representatives from all five United Methodist jurisdictions came together, along with seven bishops and national leaders in United Methodist Men and Scouting ministries. The retreat kicked off Friday evening with a worshipful opening session that invited everyone to slow down and settle into God’s presence.

“Epworth by the Sea offered the perfect setting for reflection,” said Epps. “Whether walking the quiet paths or sitting by the water, we had space to breathe, listen, and draw near to God.”

Mornings began early with a 6:30 a.m. worship service, followed by breakfast and engaging plenary sessions. But it was in the afternoon workshops where many found a deeper connection and insight. Workshop tracks explored real-life topics such as “Becoming Whole” and “Health Concerns,” as well as two powerful questions: “Where Are the Younger Men?” and “Reaching the Next Generation for Christ.” These conversations sparked a sense of urgency and hope about building bridges across generations.

Additional sessions, such as “Digital Discipleship,” “Faith Questions,” and “Financial Stewardship,” encouraged participants to think creatively about serving in today’s world. “We were challenged to step outside our comfort zones,” Ceferino reflected. “To meet people where they are—online, in our communities, and in the everyday places they need Jesus most.”

Sunday morning closed the gathering with a beautiful service led by Bishop L. Jonathan Holston, including a moving remembrance of baptism. “It wasn’t about being baptized again,” said Epps, “but about remembering who we are—claimed by God, called to serve, and sent out with purpose.”

Ceferino returned home with a heart full of inspiration and a renewed commitment to the ministry of United Methodist Men. “We have work to do,” he said, “but weekends like this remind me that we don’t do it alone. God is still calling men—young and old—to rise up and serve.”

Want to learn more about United Methodist Men in the Baltimore-Washington Conference? Reach out to Ceferino Epps at cefgerri@msn.com or visit BWCUMM.org and  UMMen.org to get involved.