ACT LIKE MEN: Forging Generations
This is an intergenerational event for men of every age and stage of life… but especially fathers & sons, mentors & mentees, and men desiring to forge the next generation. If possible bring another man!
Date: October 2-4, 2026
Location: Cohutta Springs Conference Center
Attendees: Men ages 13+
Registration: Ends September 22
BROTHERS,
This year’s theme calls men of all ages to come together, to stand firm in faith, to live with courage, to lead with strength, and to love with purpose.
“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let everything you do be done in love.”
— 1 Corinthians 16:13–14
This year’s focus on Forging Generations is more than a theme—it’s a call to action. Men need men. Young men need godly examples. Fathers, grandfathers, mentors, and spiritual leaders are encouraged to bring a son, grandson, nephew, or younger man they are investing in. Together, we will explore what it means to build a legacy of faith that extends far beyond ourselves.
“Every generation of godly men is only one generation away from extinction unless fathers and mentors intentionally pass the torch.”
Our 2025 Father-Son Line-Up!
This Will Be Our Most Engaging Weekend Ever. Prepare for Action!
This retreat is about more than listening to presentations. We won’t be just sitting around all weekend. Expect engaging activities, meaningful challenges, hands-on experiences, and opportunities to build lasting bonds with other men. You’ll leave encouraged, equipped, and energized to live out your faith with courage and purpose.
Whether you are a young man just beginning your journey, a father seeking to lead your family well, or a seasoned mentor ready to invest in the next generation, this retreat is for you.
Come be strengthened. Come be challenged. Come forge bonds that last.
REGISTRATION DETAILS:
B.A.M. (Bring Another Man) & Save 10%
This year we’re excited to introduce our Bring Another Man Discount! Invite a son, father, brother, mentee, friend, neighbor, coworker, or fellow church member to attend with you, and you’ll receive 10% off your registration.
To receive the promo code or learn more, text or call Event Coordinator Tom Pyke at 423-313-1807.
No Man Left Behind Financial Assistance
We offer help to those in need. Please request this option when registering. Thank you!
REGISTER HERE
What should you bring?
Staying in Motel Rooms:
- Bible + Journal + Pen
- Outdoor shoes for activities
- Casual clothes – no ties allowed!
- Camp chair
- Water
- Snacks
- Toiletries
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Pocket knife
- Cell phone/charger
Staying in Bunk Cabins:
- All the above plus you will need sleeping bag or linens and towel
Staying in RV Park/Campground:
- All the above plus camping gear such as tents, sleeping bags, lanterns, etc.
- Glampers bring your RV and invite a few other guys stay with you.
Everyone:
- Bring a great attitude and a willingness to engage!
- Bring a friend… especially our younger men!
- Pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit!
WEEKEND SCHEDULE
FRIDAY
3:00 Check-In Begins
6:00 Supper – Dining Hall
7:00 Session 1: “Be Watchful”
8:30 Afterglow
SABBATH
7:00 Morning Watch
8:00 Session 2: “Stand Firm”
9:30 Brunch – Dining Hall
Team-Based Activity Rotations
Each session is 1 hour long with a 15 minute transition to the next station. Please wear active clothes, bring camp chair, water, snacks, etc. Below is a sample rotation sequence.
10:30-11:30 The Teammate
11:45-12:45 The Survivor
1:00-2:00 The Warrior
2:15-3:15 The Healer
4:00 Dinner – Dining Hall
6:00 Session 3: “Be Courageous”
8:30 Evening Activities
SUNDAY
7:00 Morning Watch
8:00 Session 4: “Be Strong”
9:30 Brunch – Dining Hall
10:30 Farewell
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
The keynote speakers for our main sessions will be father-son and mentor-mentee pairs. This is a unique approach that will give perspectives from men of different ages and stages of life. Here’s the line-up.
Session 1: “Be Watchful”
This session will address the first principle of our “Act Like Men” weekend which is to “Be Watchful”.
“Be watchful” is God’s call for men to remain spiritually awake, prayerful, prepared, and on guard against temptation, deception, compromise, and every danger threatening their hearts, homes, families, and faith. It means living with open eyes, a guarded heart, a clear mind, and a constant dependence upon the Holy Spirit.
As earth approaches its final moments, watchfulness also means understanding the times, standing firmly upon God’s Word, proclaiming the Three Angels’ Messages, resisting false worship, and remaining faithful to God’s commandments and the faith of Jesus.
We do not watch with fear or speculation, but with courage, discernment, urgency, and hope—faithfully carrying out our responsibilities while preparing ourselves and others for the soon return of Jesus.
Marty Miller
Marty Miller is the founder and president of Blueprint for Men. With degrees in biology and outdoor education, Marty spent nearly 30 years as an educator before transitioning to full-time men’s ministry in 2014. Throughout his life he has enjoyed outdoor pursuits ranging from scuba diving to winter mountaineering. Marty and his treasured wife, Gale, live in Collegedale, Tennessee, and are the proud parents of two adult children and six grandchildren. Life is good!
Jonathan Miller
Jonathan Miller is a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgeon. In 2020 he founded Uderm, a full-service multi-location dermatology practice in the Chattanooga area. Outside of medicine, he enjoys fitness, outdoor pursuits, aviation, heavy equipment, playing guitar and traveling with his family. Jonathan and his beloved wife, Rebecca, have 4 girls and 1 baby boy. Life is good!
Session 2: “Stand Firm”
“Stand firm in the faith” is God’s call for men to know what they believe, know why they believe it, and refuse to be moved from biblical truth. This firmness grows from more than intellectual knowledge; it is rooted in a living relationship with Jesus, strengthened through Scripture, prayer, obedience, and the filling of the Holy Spirit.
A man who stands firm does not merely profess his faith—he practices it. His convictions guide his decisions, his character matches his confession, and his private life agrees with his public witness. This is integrity: believing the truth, living the truth, and remaining faithful when compromise would be easier.
In a shifting world, godly men stand with courage, humility, and unwavering confidence in the One who is always faithful.
What to Expect
This session will feature a presentation by Tom Pyke and a panel discuss with Brandon Luttrell, Mike Hansen, and Gabriel Trujillo. To “Stand Firm” is to live with integrity in every area of life. And the area where most men struggle the most with integrity is in the area of sexual purity. During this session you will hear how men can break from from the bondage of lust and porn addiction. If you’re struggling alone consider joining one of our online Men of Integrity groups today!
Tom Pyke
Tom has been an integral part of Blueprint for Men since its inception and currently serves as the small groups coordinator. Tom’s career path included senior management positions within large corporations, specializing in organizational effectiveness and process improvement. He is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys hiking and backpacking in remote places. Tom is married to Trina and lives in Oceanside, California. He is the proud father of 3 sons and 2 stepsons and is blessed with 4 grandsons and 2 granddaughters. Life is good!
Gabriel Trujillo
Brandon Luttrell
Mike Hansen
Mike grew up in a non-religious home in Portland, Maine. While in the Air Force, he was baptized in Homestead, Florida on October 22, 1991. Soon after baptism and while stationed in Japan, Mike was called by God to ministry, where after marrying his bride Kimberly and earning his Theology degree, he pastored churches in Wisconsin for 3 years. While in Wisconsin and then seminary in Michigan, two children, Elizabeth and Brandon, were born.
Through a series of providential events, the family moved to Colorado where Mike helped open Parker Adventist Hospital in 2003 and served as lead chaplain for more than 16 years. Mike has been passionate about men’s ministry nearly as long as he’s been in gospel ministry. Currently, he is a home hospice chaplain and helps part-time with Blueprint for Men, leading a weekly Men of Integrity group.
Session 3: “Be Courageous”
“Be courageous” is God’s call for men to take faithful action in the face of fear, risk, opposition, and danger. Courage is a hallmark of godly manhood—not because a courageous man never feels afraid, but because he refuses to let fear determine his obedience.
He steps forward when others retreat, speaks truth when silence would be easier, protects the vulnerable, confronts evil, accepts responsibility, and does what is right regardless of the cost.
Biblical courage is not recklessness, aggression, or self-reliance; it is confidence in the presence, power, and promises of God.
Like Joshua, a courageous man moves forward because the Lord is with him. He trusts God, faces the challenge, and takes the next faithful step.
Reginald Abernathy
Aaron Abernathy
Session 4: “Be Strong”
“Be strong” is God’s call for men to endure, remain faithful, and refuse to quit when life becomes difficult. Strength is one of the great hallmarks of godly manhood—not merely physical power, but the spiritual and moral fortitude to stand under pressure without breaking, abandoning one’s post, or compromising one’s commitments.
A strong man remains faithful to God, devoted to his wife, present with his children, dependable in his work, and loyal to those entrusted to his care.
He may become tired, wounded, or discouraged, but he continues to rise, carry his responsibilities, and keep his word. This strength does not come from pride or self-reliance; it comes from Christ. Godly strength is faithfulness forged through hardship—the power to endure, persevere, and finish well.
PROGRAM EMCEES
No weekend would be complete without some fun-loving emcees to lauch each meeting and the Trujillo brothers have been doing just that for the past several years. They bring all of us guys together with dad jokes, door prizes, and table challenges.
Hernando Trujillo
Gabriel Trujillo
MUSICIANS
A good retreat must have good music and Jim Moon and team will bring it home for sure!
Jim Moon
After 25 years in pastoral ministry, Jim Moon and his wife, Ingrid, swapped roles in 2024 when she became pastor of a three-church district in Minnesota and he became “Ingrid’s secretary.” Jim is also launching Intersect Leadership, a faith-based coaching ministry that equips the called and curious to make disciples where they live, work, learn and play. His podcast, Intersect: Finding Connection in Each Other’s Story, encourages listeners to take their next step with Jesus. Jim also partners with the Minnesota Conference to develop a Tent Makers Network focused on reaching people beyond the church walls.
JJ Moon
JJ Moon is a graduate of Southern Adventist University with a degree in business administration. He currently works in landscaping, participates in a men’s Bible study with several of his peers and is exploring his next steps in the business world. JJ has led worship since the age of 12 and sang with his father, Jim, on the album Consume Me. He enjoys playing and creating music, NFL football, spending time with friends and exploring the outdoors.
Luke Jones
Luke Jones is a junior at Collegedale Academy, where he participates in the orchestra and Opus Choir and serves as the student pastor for the music department. He enjoys playing music and is frequently involved in worship teams at churches throughout the Collegedale area. Luke plays guitar, drums, piano, and viola. In his free time, he enjoys weightlifting and spending time with his family.
ACTIVITY ROTATIONS
Team-Based Activity Rotations
Each session is 1 hour long with a 15 minute transition to the next station. Please wear active clothes, bring camp chair, water, snacks, etc. Below is a sample rotation sequence.
10:30-11:30 The Warrior
11:45-12:45 The Survivor
1:00-2:00 The Healer
2:15-3:15 The Teammate
The Warrior
Come prepared for an intense, hands-on session that will challenge you to think, train, and stand like a spiritual warrior. Led by experienced Special Forces veterans, you will hear gripping stories from the battlefield and learn proven strategies for leadership, teamwork, resilience, and victory—principles that apply to the daily battles every man faces.
Through demonstrations using modern military gear, you’ll gain a fresh understanding of the armor of God and how to put it on in real life. Team challenges and practical exercises will equip you to recognize the enemy’s tactics, stand firm in faith, protect those entrusted to you, and overcome through the power of Christ.
Ryan Clark
Retired Sergeant Major Ryan Clark enlisted in the U.S. Army following the attacks of September 11, 2001, serving first as an infantryman and later as a Green Beret after being selected for Army Special Forces in 2007. During his distinguished 21-year career, he completed ten deployments in support of missions around the world and earned numerous honors, including three Bronze Stars, the Combat Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab and Military Freefall Jumpmaster Badge.
Ryan now lives in McDonald, Tennessee, where he owns and operates two businesses and serves in the Men’s Ministry at Collegedale Community Church. He and his wife, Amber, have three children: Jaylen, Landen and Stella.
Gene Kelly
Sergeant First Class Gene Kelly is an active duty U.S. Army Special Forces soldier and Green Beret with the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), as well as a field instructor for Lethal FPV at NEROS Technologies. He has deployed three times in support of operations in the Middle East and Africa, with additional operational experience in Eastern Europe and Central America.
Trained in assault and sniper operations, reconnaissance, surveillance, mobility and the tactical employment of FPV drones, Gene is an experienced leader skilled at building high-performing teams and operating under pressure. His distinguished training and service have earned him the Special Forces and Ranger Tabs, Military Freefall and Airborne Badges and numerous commendations; he lives in Chattanooga with his wife, Ana, their infant son, Miles, and their dog, Mac.
The Survivor
Come prepared for an active, hands-on session that will test your thinking, teamwork, leadership, and practical outdoor skills. Guided by three experienced young outdoorsmen, you will learn the essential survival hierarchy—from S.T.O.P. and maintaining the right mindset to preparation, first aid, communication, shelter, fire, water, and food. You’ll also discover how these principles apply to surviving and thriving as a family, brotherhood, and church.
The session will culminate in a fast-paced team fire-building challenge where generations work together, leaders emerge, and everyone has a role. Come ready to learn, participate, and be challenged.
Dylan Ford
Devin Vaudreuil
Daniel Tanksley
The Healer
Through live demonstrations, participants will discover how horses respond to fear, pressure, mistrust, boundaries, and emotional triggers—offering a compelling picture of how wounded people often protect themselves and how patience, safety, gentleness, and consistent love can help rebuild trust.
This session will especially equip men to better understand and compassionately respond when a wife or loved one’s past wounds are triggered. Come learn how to replace pressure with presence, reaction with understanding, and control with Christlike love that helps wounded hearts heal.
Traci Piper
Traci Piper, founder of Redeemer’s Herd and Rescue, combines years of experience in natural horsemanship with a compassionate understanding of loss, trauma, and life’s difficult transitions. Through Healing Hearts Through Hooves, she helps people—especially those accustomed to carrying burdens alone—experience the honesty of horses as a pathway toward greater trust, communication, connection, and healing. Grounded in her faith, Traci believes God has used every part of her journey, including the painful seasons and many years of one-on-one work, to prepare her for this calling to create safe spaces where people can slow down, recognize what lies beneath the surface, and begin moving forward.
Nancy Spencer
Nancy is a passionate, down-to-earth professional whose life reflects grit, compassion, and a deep commitment to service. Raised around first responders and shaped by a career in law enforcement, she brings courage, calm judgment, and dependability to everything she does. Her extensive knowledge of horse care, handling, and behavior has also taught her the power of trust, humility, resilience, and communication beyond words. Known for her straightforward honesty, warm humor, and generous heart, Nancy combines toughness with compassion and leads with integrity, loyalty, and a genuine love for horses and people.
The Teammate
Get ready for a team-based adventure race that will challenge your mind, body, character, and ability to work together. Teams will navigate a series of activities—including problem-solving challenges, trail running, canoeing, and other demanding obstacles.
Every teammate will bring different strengths, and success will require communication, perseverance, encouragement, and selfless leadership. This is not about finishing first; it is about finishing together. No man is left behind, and the ultimate victory is crossing the finish line as a stronger, more united band of brothers.
Cesar Covarrubias
Rusty Noth
Keven Burdorf
WHEN THE WEEKEND IS OVER…
FREE ACT LIKE MEN RESOURCES
We are so glad you attended the ACT LIKE MEN: Forging Generations weekend and pray that your mountaintop experience has ignited your desire to be more like Jesus, the ultimate man! This is a lifetime commitment that is intentional.
To assist you in your manhood journey check out the resource page we have created for this event and take action today!
PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS
MEN’S RETREAT FLYER
Download, print, and post at your church where men can see it!
CHURCH BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENT
Place this announcement in your church bulletin!
Attention Men: You are invited to attend the Act Like Men: Forging Generations Retreat at Cohutta Springs on October 2-4, 2026. It has been said that “Every generation of godly men is only one generation away from extinction unless fathers and mentors intentionally pass the torch.” Bring your son or a younger man to the retreat and both of you will recieve a 10% discount! Other scholarships available. No man will be turned away. Be prepared to be inspired and perspire! Complete details can be found at BlueprintForMen.org. Registration ends September 22.
PRESENTATION SLIDE
Download this slide and share on your church screens leading up to the registration deadline.
ABOUT COHUTTA SPRINGS
ONE OF THE TOP RETREAT CENTERS IN AMERICA!
Tucked away in the North Georgia mountains and surrounded by a glistening 55-acre lake, Cohutta Springs Conference Center is the perfect setting for our annual men’s retreat. You will feel your stress melt away whether you stay in one a motel room overlooking the lake or are camping with other guys out under the stars. The main lodge houses a large auditorium, four breakout rooms, and the dining hall where delicious buffet style meals ensure you will never go hungry!
WEBSITE for Cohutta Springs
VIDEO for Cohutta Springs
CAMPUS MAP for Cohutta Springs
MAIN LODGE
LAKESIDE PATIO
DOUBLE ROOM
LOOKING BACK
Since 2017 Blueprint for Men has been providing engaging retreats for men in the Georgia-Cumberland Conference and beyond. Here is a quick review of the themes we have had during the past 10 years.
PICS FROM LAST YEAR:
Check out some of the pics from last year’s retreat to see what to expect.
FOLLOW-UP EMAIL
Here’s an email recap sent out to all the guys that attended the Men Under Construction Retreat a few years ago which also gives you some insights to what to expect this fall.
Gentlemen,
Thank you so much for joining us at the Men Under Construction Retreat this past weekend. What a powerful experience that was! As I look back on the weekend, I thought I would share with you what I believe made this event so outstanding and also challenge each one of you to take several steps toward becoming the man God designed you to be.
The Making of a Powerful Retreat
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The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Power
I have attended many outstanding men’s retreats over the years, but I truly believe that this year was the best ever because the Holy Spirit was poured out at another level. The Sabbath afternoon baptisms were the high point of the weekend. Grant Graves called men to take a stand, to be ALL IN, and 10 men took a stand for rebaptism. Dave Ketelsen shared a message that brought it all home with a good dose of humor and then we headed down to the lakeside where we cheered and sang praises to our good God. Powerful!
The men that were baptized included Gary Green, Rudy Escobar, Roberto Enfante, Andrew Gonzales, Josh Galbraith, Jake Mertz, David Adams, Xaver Pinero, Spencer Hoernes, and Greg Leavitt. Those performing the baptism included Dave Ketelsen, Doug Brown, Grant Graves, and Dean Reed.
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The Energy of Younger Men
Because we had an increase in the number of younger men at the event, we had a higher level of energy and enthusiasm. I know that life is especially hectic for those of you from 25-45 so I commend you for taking the time and pray that the experience challenges you to take action in your life in the areas that need it the most.
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The Spectacular Fall Weather
Cohutta Springs is always a beautiful place but this weekend the sky, trees, water, and land were really showing off God’s glory in a spectacular way. The cool weather and breezy conditions were invigorating to my soul!
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Inspirational Music and Testimonies
The music this year was the most inspiring ever. There is nothing like hearing deep masculine voices belting out praises to God and “Builder of Men”, by Tag Garmon, was perfect for bringing out the best in all of us. And the testimonies by Tag, Jim Moon, and many other men brought raw authenticity.
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Challenging Messages and the Blueprint System Launch
In past events I have not had a major speaking part but this weekend I felt compelled to share with you the beginning of what will be the Blueprint System. Even though we didn’t spend much time covering this content I think that there is enough for you to craft your own blueprint in the days ahead. Share your plan with another man and get building. I need your feedback too! More details will be coming soon!
Here’s a link to the presentation I gave about Men’s Discipleship that you can see in full detail. (This is Module 5 of the Men’s Ministry Leadership Course)
Next Steps… Moving Forward!
The main reason that I’m sending you this email is to encourage you to get plugged into resources and groups that will help you grow as a godly man in the days ahead. Here’s what I recommend…
Step #1 – Start Reading Our Weekly Email
Just by attending this retreat you will begin to receive our weekly email. Check your inbox every Thursday morning. Many links in our email lead to our Blueprint for Men website where you will find upcoming events and an increasing number of resources.
Step #2 – Start Listening to Our Weekly Podcast
Our Blueprint for Men Podcast is filled with stories, challenging messages, interviews, and more.
Step #3 – Get Access to RightNow Media
As a retreat attendee you have been given access to RightNow Media, a video streaming service that provides Christian content for men, women, youth, marriage, finances, etc. You can download the RNM app and listen/watch content anywhere on your mobile device. Not only is this a tremendous resource for you and your family, but it also provides you with much of the content for our men’s groups all for FREE. Look for an email from RightNow Media that will direct you on how to get your account set up.
Step #4 – Get Connected… Join or Start a Men’s Group
Your journey ahead will be challenging but if you are walking with God, and have a godly band of brothers, you will succeed. Please consider joining an online group today… or start your own! Here are some options for you to consider.
- Visit our SmallGroups webpage to discover all of the groups we offer.
- Schedule a call with our small group coordinator, Tom Pyke, if you need guidance.
- Join our VIRDUX (Leading Men) virtual group every Sabbath from 7:30-9:00 am ET.
- Order a Morning Summit book. This 13-week habit building program is designed for groups.
- Order a Coaching Champions workbook and start coaching or mentoring a younger man.
Step #5 – Your Pornography Addiction… Deal with it NOW!
Most men receiving this email are struggling with sexual sin, especially in the area of pornography. If you are under conviction to address this cancer in your life now is the time to deal with it. Here’s a fact… You will either deal with your pornography addiction or it will deal with you, and it will be devastating. Please don’t put this off my friend. Here’s your lifeline… grab it now!
- Join our Men of Integrity (Sexual Purity) virtual group on Mondays from 7:00-8:30 pm ET.
- Schedule a call with our small group coordinator, Tom Pyke, to find out more.
Step #6 – If You’re a Dad, Become an Intentional Father
Last summer I created a webpage for Father’s Day that provides a variety of resources that will help you become an intentional father. Go to the webpage and get going or download the following resources that are also found on that page.
- Adulting Challenge Blueprint
- Manhood Rites and Blessings
- 10 Roles of an Intentional Father
- A Prayer of Blessing for Your Wife
My Closing Challenge to Every Man
Follow-through on Your Commitment
You made some commitments this past weekend and shared it with another man. Now you need to put together a plan, do the work, and become the man God called you to be. Stay humble, stay committed, and start building together with God.
We Will Follow-through Our Commitment
We at Blueprint for Men are here to support you, pray for you, and cheer you on as you become the man God designed you to be. In the days ahead, we would love to hear about the progress you are making so feel free to reach out at any time.
Here’s to Building Better Men,
Marty D. Miller
Blueprint for Men, Founder & President
Mobile 423.322.8491
Website www.blueprintformen.org
Address 5050 Layton Lane, Apison, TN 37302