by Don Mooney. 12-25-2025
From Seattle to the island of Bermuda brethren descended on Dallas to attend the 16th Brotherhood of Men Conference. An opportunity to gather spiritual intel presented by some of the leading gospel voices echoing the theme; “I’m All In!” for the Kingdom of God. photo by Don Mooney
Dallas, TX—The bible speaks to the spirit of the Brotherhood Of Mens conference (BOM) held in Dallas, TX for the 16th year. In fact the proverbial saying found in the 27th chapter of Proverbs reflects a universal principal, “as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another”. The significant intent of scripture points out that people can help one another improve and grow through mutual influence and accountability, just as two pieces of iron can be used to sharpen each other. For 16-years the Brotherhood of Mens conference, the innovative inspiration of Bro Emanuel White gathering male members of the body of Chrst across America whom seek to become better, husbands, fathers and leaders at their home congregations.
This years conference presenters featured minister Alvin L. Daniels, Jr Hope Church of Christ in Miami, FL, (l), Thomas CL Thomas, minister Roosevelt-Freeport church of Christ, Roosevelt NY, Harold Redd minister Midtown Church of Christ in Memphis, TN and founder Emanuel White, minister Forrest Hills Church of Christ, Forrest Hills, TX (r). photo by Don Mooney
This years BOM conference theme, “I’m All In” the rallying thrust for some nearly 250 brethren in Christ who travelled from as far away as Seattle, WA to the port of the Caribbean isle of Bermuda. For three days the brethren gathered, not to solve congregational issues or dissenting messaging. Ewhite ministries provided a centralized atmosphere addressing kingdom building and discipleship.
Following morning/afternoon presentations breakout sessions are held where brethren can discuss what was heard and make practical applications. photos by Don Mooney
Inspired from a National Lectureship in Nashville, TN 18-years ago, a presentation by bro. Emanuel White entitled, “Wounds – Father Wounds and Mother Wounds,” bro. Nathaniel Whitlock, minister at Madison Park Church of Christ in Seattle, WA, recalls this life-changing moment. “From the information shared and learned helped me to process my brokenness, shares Whitlock. Began the healing of my wounds that I had been suffering from for years, with little understanding of why I was so confused, angry and hurt.” Whitlock describes how he witnessed an overwhelming buzz in the atmosphere. “Every man who was willing to be honest and vulnerable, in that moment, was changed for the better, remembers Whitlock. Bro David Jones asked Bro White to repeat the workshop for other men to experience. From there the BOM was birthed.” Fast forward, from that time bro Whitlock like others decided to commit to the work of connecting with other men to understand, acknowledge the brokenness-encourage healing and embrace the authentic manhood model of God.
Conference attendee’s connect at breakout sessions for personal conversations inspired by previous presentations. photo by Don Mooney
One brother best describes his annual attendance at the conference as the Christmas present I give to myself every year. The question begs what compels men to plan, prepare and travel goodly distances to gather at such an event? Could it be the featured presenters supply spiritual lightning that strikes in mens hearts and soul. “What made me want to return was the spirit among the men, shared Billy Moore, minister of Ruleville Church of Christ in Mississippi. I was deeply moved by the level of spiritual and practical knowledge shared, which showed how men can embrace their God-given roles in the home, church and community.”
Brethren of all ages gather around a table after an inspiring presentation sharing their challenges and difficulties. photo by Don Mooney
This years presenters are in-demand speakers who criss-cross the country addressing gospel meetings, lectureships and spiritual conferences delivering the gospel message of Jesus in practical and oft times palatable ways. Each has a his own unique way of messaging that reels in the listener to a deeper encounter with the word. Speaking with members from the Brighton Hill Church of Christ in Bermuda, whom have attended from the beginning, have won the coveted Talon Award for most congregational attendance in the past. “One of the things I use it for is a spiritual boost, remarked one member of the Bermudian group. I look forward to it because I work hard and I like being in an atmosphere that you can make practical applications to the things that you learn. And this is one of the places you can do that.”
Men come together with meaningful declarations during breakout session. Sharing their experiences, receiving reflective responses from other brethren whom have dealt with similar issues. photo by Don Mooney
“BOM conference challenges me to continue to invest in my personal devellopment as a man, husband, father, brother, son and servant of God to humanity.” bro Nathaniel E. Withlock Sr
Obvious the conference is a success. Longevity of 16-years trajectarize the building blocks of an institution. It seems sustainable for the foreseeable future. Brother White and board of directors have been diligent in providing a conference that strives for excellence in speakers, programming, service and lodging. Over the years some agree the experience gets better. “The BOM conference has always been committed to making the conference a better experience every year, according to bro. Whitlock who has attended all conferences. The themes and subject matter have been relevant and practical for implementing in the hearts of men – with the willingness to be better men for all mankind.”
2025 BOM presenters(l) Alvin L. Daniels Jr, Harold Redd, Emanuel White and Thomas Thomas lead panel discussion toward the end of full day session. photo by Don Mooney
“I believe the brotherhood Conference offers great benefits to the entire brotherhood.” bro Billy Moore
There are real issues facing men absent of any spiritual direction can be detrimental. Men are seeking solutions to life’s challenges. Men travel thousands of miles, spend hours on flights not to mention lay overs and other unimaginable logistical stresses, in making their way, back and forth to their love ones. This level of commitment, for many whom participate yearly, suggest something special is happening at the BOM conference.
Brethren from Midtown (l) in Memphis won this years Talon Award for most attendee’s from one congregation. (r) Brethren from the Brighton Hills Church of Christ in Bermuda travel approximately 2,000 miles, round trip, to attend the BOM Conference for the last 16-years. photo by Don Mooney
The offerings of the conference seem to be of great benefit to the brotherhood in general. The level of preparation is clear. Questions are biblically applied and answered. Bo. Moore spells the benefits out more succinctly. “There’s also a notable consistency and depth in the knowledge shared by the speakers, which strengthens and equips men to serve effectively in all areas of life.”
“Whats said here…stays here!“
Bro. Emanuel White encouraging attendees at the 16th BOM Conference in Dallas, TX. photo by Don Mooney
Noticeable examples of the presenters messaging creating an atmosphere of safeness. Brethren let down their emotional and psychological masks. Sit down across from one another, sharing difficult topics only to find they’re not alone. Brighton Hills member reflects, “For me personally, the first time-no…the second time I came I was able, in the breakout sessions, to open up, declares Brighton Hills member. I said things that I never talked about to anyone.” Until he opened up he couldn’t speak that to no one else. From that day on he was able to express himself. “Man..what is said here is stayed here.”
Many, like those from Brighton Hills register for next year’s conference before returning.