Men’s Breakfasts have long been a tradition in our churches, but at the recent event St Barnabas they were intentional about making it more than just good food and great company—they wanted it to be an open door for those who may not yet know Jesus.
This breakfast was part of the Haere Mai: Jesus Matters – Come and See project, and they focused on creating a welcoming space where men could gather, share real conversations, and engage with a thought-provoking talk. I sat down with Phil Greenwood, vicar of St Barnabas Stoke, to talk about how this event was designed to be a place of genuine connection and an opportunity to explore faith in a relaxed setting.
We wanted this to be a low-pressure, welcoming environment—a space where men could come as they are, whether they had a strong faith, doubts, or were just curious. To do this, we were intentional in two ways. First, we created a relaxed and inviting space where men felt at home, enjoying great food, real conversations, and an engaging discussion. Second, we chose a speaker and topic that resonated with all men, regardless of their faith background, sparking deeper discussions about life, faith, and purpose.
Authenticity is key. No one wants to feel like they’ve walked into a "sign-up for church" event. We wanted men to feel they could be themselves, whether they were believers or just exploring faith. Good food also plays an important role. A solid cooked breakfast helps break down barriers, making conversations easier and friendships grow naturally. Finally, we focused on creating a no-pressure atmosphere. This wasn’t about convincing anyone of anything. It was about starting conversations, allowing faith to be explored naturally, and trusting that God works in His own time.
We were thrilled to have Greg Burgoyne join us. Greg speaks honestly and engagingly about balancing business, family, and faith, sharing practical wisdom on how to navigate life’s pressures while keeping God at the centre. This topic resonated because many men today struggle with pressure, purpose, and the challenges of daily life. Greg has a way of connecting with people, sharing his own journey, and making faith feel accessible and real. His insights encouraged those attending to reflect on their own priorities and consider how faith fits into their daily lives.
We had all the classics—perfectly scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and buttery croissants—plus fruit and cereal for those watching their weight. But beyond the food, the real highlight was the conversations. Around the table, men shared stories, laughed together, and explored faith in a meaningful way. The food provided a relaxed setting, but it was the relationships being built that made the morning truly special.
This breakfast wasn’t just about one morning together—it was about starting conversations that will continue. We saw new friendships form, honest discussions take place, and barriers to faith start to shift. Some men left with a deeper curiosity about faith, while others found encouragement in knowing they weren’t alone in their struggles. We’re praying that this event planted seeds that will grow in the weeks and months ahead.
Thanks to everyone who came along, and a special thank you to Greg and the team who made this event possible. We can’t wait for the next one.
Check out other articles in the
series below.
More articles in the
series are to come.
We have invited these writers to share their experiences, ideas and opinions in the hope that these will provoke thought, challenge you to go deeper and inspire you to put your faith into action. These articles should not be taken as the official view of the Nelson Diocese on any particular matter.
Men’s Breakfasts have long been a tradition in our churches, but at the recent event St Barnabas they were intentional about making it more than just good food and great company—they wanted it to be an open door for those who may not yet know Jesus.
This breakfast was part of the Haere Mai: Jesus Matters – Come and See project, and they focused on creating a welcoming space where men could gather, share real conversations, and engage with a thought-provoking talk. I sat down with Phil Greenwood, vicar of St Barnabas Stoke, to talk about how this event was designed to be a place of genuine connection and an opportunity to explore faith in a relaxed setting.
We wanted this to be a low-pressure, welcoming environment—a space where men could come as they are, whether they had a strong faith, doubts, or were just curious. To do this, we were intentional in two ways. First, we created a relaxed and inviting space where men felt at home, enjoying great food, real conversations, and an engaging discussion. Second, we chose a speaker and topic that resonated with all men, regardless of their faith background, sparking deeper discussions about life, faith, and purpose.
Authenticity is key. No one wants to feel like they’ve walked into a "sign-up for church" event. We wanted men to feel they could be themselves, whether they were believers or just exploring faith. Good food also plays an important role. A solid cooked breakfast helps break down barriers, making conversations easier and friendships grow naturally. Finally, we focused on creating a no-pressure atmosphere. This wasn’t about convincing anyone of anything. It was about starting conversations, allowing faith to be explored naturally, and trusting that God works in His own time.
We were thrilled to have Greg Burgoyne join us. Greg speaks honestly and engagingly about balancing business, family, and faith, sharing practical wisdom on how to navigate life’s pressures while keeping God at the centre. This topic resonated because many men today struggle with pressure, purpose, and the challenges of daily life. Greg has a way of connecting with people, sharing his own journey, and making faith feel accessible and real. His insights encouraged those attending to reflect on their own priorities and consider how faith fits into their daily lives.
We had all the classics—perfectly scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and buttery croissants—plus fruit and cereal for those watching their weight. But beyond the food, the real highlight was the conversations. Around the table, men shared stories, laughed together, and explored faith in a meaningful way. The food provided a relaxed setting, but it was the relationships being built that made the morning truly special.
This breakfast wasn’t just about one morning together—it was about starting conversations that will continue. We saw new friendships form, honest discussions take place, and barriers to faith start to shift. Some men left with a deeper curiosity about faith, while others found encouragement in knowing they weren’t alone in their struggles. We’re praying that this event planted seeds that will grow in the weeks and months ahead.
Thanks to everyone who came along, and a special thank you to Greg and the team who made this event possible. We can’t wait for the next one.
Check out other articles in the
series below.
More articles in the
series are to come.
%20(1).png)
