Spangler's relationship with his dad was rock solid. He always assumed that most men enjoyed the same benefits throughout their childhoods, but over time he realized that was not the case. This inspired Spangler to pen his first book, When I Grow Up to Be a Daddy (Star Bible Publications). It was also written for his three sons—ages 5, 3 and 1—so they might know what kind of man their grandfather was.

 

When one of Spangler's pastors at Highland Park United Methodist Church approached him about starting a men's ministry, he asked if it could be geared specifically toward fathers. Since that conversation, Spangler has organized a monthly breakfast for dads.

 

The first event took place in September 2004 with 80 men in attendance. Since then, more than 750 fathers have attended the gatherings, which average at least 100 dads per meeting. Guest speakers have included former Dallas Cowboys linebacker Chad Hennings, former Kansas City Royals player Randy Marshall and renowned prison ministry organizer Bill Glass.

 

"The mission is to encourage fathers to be what their families need them to be and what God needs them to be," Spangler says. "Everything is drawn from that theme."

 

He says the goal for each meeting is to create an environment where the average guy will feel completely comfortable. To that end, organizers make sure each event is kept to an hour in length. The men are also told that they won't be put on the spot or asked to share their testimonies.

 

"We make the meetings 'man-proof,'" Spangler says. "That really resonates with men."

He also regularly speaks at area churches on fatherhood. Though Spangler has no plans to go into full-time ministry, the insurance agent fully intends to promote the blessings of fatherhood for years to come.

 

"My passion is father's ministry," Spangler says. "I love doing it. I could do it 24-seven."

For more information on Bodie Spangler's ministry to fathers, visit beadaddy.com.