There’s a new bible study ministry in Old Town, and it’s just for men.
Every second and fourth Wednesday, more than a dozen men and boys talk about the Bible and staying on the right path at Charles Houston Recreation Center (901 Wythe Street). The group “Men Seeking God” was founded earlier this year by lifelong Alexandria resident Bruce Anderson, boxer Tony Suggs and an old friend he met at the Alexandria jail, Reverend Myron Contee.
Contee, a Living Legend of Alexandria, has been the chaplain at the jail for more than 15 years. He runs the bible study, and on a recent Wednesday talked about a mindful approach to life.
“As men, we struggle with faith, and we may have some similar struggles in life,” Contee said. “But whatever they are, the answers are here.”
Anderson was incarcerated in the Alexandria jail when he found religion. For years he was part of a similar group at the All American Barbershop (1106 Queen Street) in Old Town, which shut down after two influential founding members died.
Contee is also a reverend at St. John Baptist Church of Alexandria.
“It’s hard being the man God wants us to be for our children and society, and living by example the lives he’s asked for us to live out,” Contee said.
“The bible study at the barber shop was a great tool for me,” Anderson said. “It helped keep me on the right path.”
At last Wednesday’s meeting, one man said he’s had issues with his faith.
“I’ve been looking for a job for six years,” the man said. “I get rejection after rejection.”
One of the participants is a 14-year-old boy, who showed wisdom beyond his years.
“The biggest thing I think is trust, and not expecting our blessings sooner than they’re supposed to come,” the boy said.
Everyone in the room held hands and prayed at the end of the talk.
“Men Seeking God” meets every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at Charles Houston Recreation Center. Meetings last an hour, and include free food and drinks.
