Melanie Cave and Revd Will Van Der Hart delve into the complexities of masculinity in contemporary society. They explore the crisis of masculinity, its implications for young men, and the role of the Church in addressing these issues. The discussion touches on the impact of pornography, the importance of parenting, and the need for open conversations about masculinity and femininity. They emphasise the necessity of defining masculinity in a way that promotes healthy relationships and respect, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by societal changes and cultural narratives. Although the conversation might raise more questions than it answers, it serves as a critical starting point for a deeper reflection on how the Church can foster environments of respect, equality, and understanding.
Will Van Der Hart is an ordained Anglican priest, director of the mental health charity Mind and Soul Foundation, and an author, communicator and executive coach. Will's article on masculinity is in Roots Worship Together Issue 138, available in print and online.
Takeaways
Masculinity is often defined in relation to violence and abuse.
Statistics show a troubling rise in violence against women and girls.
The role of pornography in shaping unhealthy masculine identities is significant.
Parenting plays a crucial role in developing healthy masculinity.
The Church has a responsibility to address masculinity issues openly.
There is a crisis of young men feeling lost and unsupported in society.
Conversations about masculinity must include perspectives from women.
Cultural narratives around masculinity are shifting and need to be addressed.
Healthy masculinity can coexist with feminist ideals.
The Church can and should be a space for reconciliation and dialogue on these tough issues.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring masculinity: A personal journey
04:12 The impact of violence on women and girls
06:54 The role of pornography in masculinity
09:37 Cultural shifts and masculine identity
12:30 The crisis of masculine absenteeism
15:19 Navigating masculinity in the Church
18:03 The intersection of masculinity and societal change
20:39 Defining masculinity in a modern context
23:36 The nuances of masculine traits
26:16 The future of masculinity: a call to action
33:49 The role of men in shaping future generations
35:32 Navigating controversial topics in the Church
37:42 The challenge of feminism and masculinity in leadership
38:33 Recovering Biblical perspectives
40:35 Challenging toxic masculinity and misogyny
42:21 Living in paradox: masculinity and femininity
42:34 The complexity of Jesus as a model for women
44:38 The need for guardrails in these conversations
45:55 Addressing awkward Biblical passages
47:57 The impact of online influences on young men
49:57 Resources for positive masculinity conversations
54:21 Exploring masculinity in Church
54:49 Resources for addressing domestic violence
Links:
https://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/library/lost-boys
https://www.restored-uk.org/resources/
https://www.restored-uk.org/blog/page/9/
https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/
www.rootsforchurches.com
