Why younger men are leading the charge—and why the church can’t afford to miss it

Across many churches, especially here in New England, something unexpected is happening: men’s ministry is coming back to life. Not as a relic of the past or a recycled program—but as a renewed, grassroots movement. And at the center of it? Younger men—Millennials and Gen Z—who are not just participating, but leading the charge.

For years, men’s ministry in many churches quietly faded. After the pandemic, some ministries never resumed operations. Others were reduced to occasional breakfasts or sidelined altogether in favor of broader, more generalized programming. But what many leaders assumed was “outdated” is now being rediscovered as essential.

A Generation Looking for Something Real

In this previously unreleased episode of the Keeping Moving Forward Podcast, we take a thoughtful look at the film Sound of Freedom—not just as a piece of storytelling, but as a cultural moment that sparked intense conversation.

The episode explores both the heart behind the film’s message and the controversy that surrounded its release. We examine the real-world issue it seeks to highlight, how audiences responded across the spectrum, and why it became such a flashpoint in public discourse.

Rather than offering quick reactions, this episode aims to slow things down—separating fact from speculation, emotion from evidence—and encourages listeners to think critically while remaining compassionate. It’s an honest, balanced conversation about truth, media, and the responsibility we carry when engaging with difficult topics.

Though it never originally aired, this “lost episode” remains deeply relevant—inviting us to keep moving forward with clarity, conviction, and discernment.

In this candid and deeply personal conversation, Micah Smith opens up about the unique challenges of serving as a bi-vocational pastor in New England—a context where ministry often happens quietly, faithfully, and without much recognition.

Drawing from his own experience, Pastor Micah sheds light on what many never see: the long hours balancing secular work and shepherding a congregation, the emotional weight of caring for people through life’s hardest moments, and the constant tension of trying to be fully present in both callings. In a region where churches are often smaller and resources more limited, the role demands resilience, sacrifice, and a deep dependence on God.

He also addresses a common misunderstanding—many assume pastoral ministry is confined to Sunday mornings, but for the bi-vocational pastor, it’s a 24/7 calling layered on top of everyday responsibilities. From late-night hospital visits to early morning sermon preparation, the work is both unseen and unending.

More than just highlighting the struggle, this conversation is a call to greater awareness and support. It invites listeners to better understand, pray for, and come alongside those who are faithfully serving in this dual role—reminding us that behind every sermon is a shepherd carrying far more than most will ever know.