Worship Service to Focus on Men

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Oxnard is sponsoring its first All Male Worship Service on Jan. 13.

The Rev. Johnie Carlisle Jr. said the event stems from a church group called Sons of Allen that gives men an opportunity to exert a positive influence in church congregations--many of which, he said, are dominated by women.

While comparisons with the recent “Million Man March” are inevitable, Carlisle said the event was planned before the rally in Washington, D. C. Unlike that gathering, women are also invited to attend the service.

The keynote speaker will be the Right Rev. Vinton R. Anderson, presiding bishop of the 5th Episcopal District and president of the World Council of Churches. Speakers from the community will address themes covered by the men’s conference group, including education, political empowerment, affirmative action and spirituality. A 100-voice male chorus will provide music.

The public is invited to attend the service, which will begin at 7 p.m. Bethel is at 855 South F St.