Growing Good Men: A Rite of Passage for Fathers and Sons
“This is my son – in whom I am well pleased”.
How many men wish we could have heard these words from our own father? Spoken to Jesus 2000 years ago, these words remain powerful today. Recognising the value of our sons is a profound sign of our approval, confidence and love. The Growing Good Men (GGM) weekends run by menALIVE, offer fathers and sons a unique opportunity to strengthen their relationship and intentionally mark the journey from boyhood toward manhood.
The teenage years can be challenging as sons seek independence and identity. A weekend away having fun, reflecting on family history, and learning about the journey ahead can be a powerful launchpad as fathers and sons enter this new stage of life together. Good men are not an accident – they are grown, shaped, encouraged and coached to be their best for those they love.
GGM is an experientially based program for fathers and their sons aged 12–17 (Years 7–11). The weekend runs from Friday evening to Sunday lunchtime and includes adventure activities, guided discussions and honest conversations about character, responsibility, relationships and the role of fathers.
A highlight of the weekend is a modern Rite of Initiation, where each son is formally acknowledged and presented with a hand-made Journeyman’s Staff, created by his father during the weekend as a lasting symbol of affirmation and support.
One participant described the weekend as “Excellent, fantastic and life changing. A must for any father and son. Something I wish I had done with my father.”
The GGM weekends are a rare and meaningful opportunity for fathers to connect with their sons and for our young men to step forward with confidence into the next stage of their journey.