International Men's Day

International Men’s Day was established in 1999 to highlight positive male role models and raise awareness of men’s health and wellbeing. Ahead of this year’s event, Sean Fletcher is in Leeds exploring what it means to be a man in modern society, and how faith, friendship and a sense of purpose can help men thrive in mind, body and spirit.

He meets rugby league legend Jamie Jones-Buchanan, now CEO of Leeds Rhinos, where he made 421 appearances, as well as representing England and Great Britain. Jamie reflects on growing up without a father figure in one of the UK’s most deprived areas, and how rugby and his Christian faith provided positive male role models, and a sense of belonging and purpose. He challenges stereotypes of the macho rugby player, and his passion for helping the next generation comes to life during a training session.

In the Welsh valleys, Pastor John Funnell reflects on the extraordinary number of young men joining his congregation. John left a highly paid career after becoming a Christian and moved to one of Europe’s most deprived communities. He explains how his church offers practical skills, mentoring, friendship and faith, helping men see that their past does not have to determine their future.

Back in Leeds, Sean meets Chris Sayburn, a minister and renowned worship leader who spent 12 years living with chronic pain following complications after spinal surgery. He tells Sean how exercise and faith have helped him rebuild his life and how a community of men became a lifeline.

With uplifting hymns and songs from around the UK.

1. Sweet Heart of Jesus - Leeds Cathedral
2. Amazing Grace - The Kingdom Choir
3. Facing a Task Unfinished - Lisburn Cathedral
4. Lord of All Hopefulness - Chris Sayburn and Friends
5. Firm Foundation (He Won't) - Alive Lincoln Central
6. O Worship the King - Hull Minster