Gary is a believer, husband, father, and the founder and executive director of the nonprofit organization Major League Dad. Gary has worked with fathers and families in many capacities for almost two decades. His story with his father has helped build and support the fathers he serves through Major League Dad. His focus is on fathers in low-socioeconomic areas to strengthen the family unit and propel those fathers to lead in the home and community.

Website: https://www.majorleaguedad.org/

Watch this conversation on our youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvM2tIUtv0o

Learn more about the Surge Network: https://www.surgenetwork.com/

Discover the work of the Global Faith and Work Initiative: https://www.globalfaithandwork.com/

Episode Summary:

In this conversation, Gary Freeman wades into deep waters, starting with an honest reflection on the terrifying reality of becoming a father. Teena and Gary continue into greater depths as they navigate conversations around what is truly required to champion the fullness of life for families- with special attention to fathers on the margins of society. This conversation does not shy away from tensions, but leans into the gray spaces that our polarized conversations often refuse to touch. This episode is an invitation for us all to consider what belonging to the family of God means for how we can create and embrace belonging- through our everyday work and rest- for those often left out of the conversation.

00:00 Introduction to the Series

02:10 Brokenness and Redemption in Becoming a Father

07:24 The Beautiful Gift and Terrifying Responsibility of Children

12:58 Major League Dads

18:33 Supporting Men to Become Phenomenal Fathers

24:21 How Jesus Supported the Twelve

27:25 Growth in Ministry

32:41 From Local Pregnancy Centers to a National Organization

41:16 How Distance Breeds Self-Righteousness

46:09 How Different Industries Can Connect to This Topic

55:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts