What Andy’s Man Club Taught Me About Community and Connection

During my sabbatical, I’ve had the opportunity to attend Andy’s Man Club, a free nationwide support group that runs every Monday at 7PM. These groups create a safe, judgment-free, and non-clinical environment where men can open up about the storms affecting their lives. There’s no pressure to speak—men are welcome to just listen if they wish.

I’ll be honest: I was nervous the first time I went. The team leaders wait outside the venue to welcome people in. Even now, I still feel a bit intimidated seeing them standing outside, but they’re genuinely there to help men feel at ease. It made me think about how people must feel walking into church for the first time, and how we might be more intentional in creating a welcoming, non-intimidating environment.

Once I was sat in the circle, I felt right at home. It was amazing to be part of a community of men from all walks of life, sharing the same space and supporting one another. One of the group’s simple but powerful rules is: no phones out. In a society that’s more digitally connected than ever but often deeply lonely, it was refreshing to put the screens away and look each other in the eye—to really listen and be present.

Andy’s Man Club is built around the core idea: “It’s okay to talk.” That simple permission—giving men the space to share their struggles—strikes right at the heart of what so many of us need.

As I sat there, I thought about how the Church could learn from Andy’s Man Club. In Galatians 6:2, Paul writes:

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Andy’s Man Club embodies that verse by creating a space where men can carry each other’s burdens—without fear of judgment or pressure. It reminded me that, in church, we sometimes get so focused on programmes and structures that we forget the power of simply being there for one another. We sometimes assume everyone is okay, or that people will share only if we ask. But often, we need to build a culture where sharing is normal, safe, and encouraged.

So often, I’ve given up my Mondays for church meetings that work better for others—often at the cost of looking after myself. Attending Andy’s Man Club was a powerful reminder that sometimes we need to prioritise our own mental health so that we can truly support others. I’m really glad I went. Even if attending Andy’s Man Club during my sabbatical is the only thing I do, I’d consider my time off well spent.

The real challenge will be to keep going on Monday nights once I’m back in active ministry. I’d encourage every man—no matter their background—to consider giving it a try. It’s okay to talk. And sometimes, showing up for yourself is the first step in being able to show up for others.