FRANKLIN TWP — Challenge, adventure, risk-taking and big dreams are not often descriptors used for church.

Yet one group of men is using weekly discussions to find ways to incorporate these themes into their churches, creating a balance that will attract more men to the pews.

The group, which meets each Thursday at Mount Chestnut Presbyterian Church, is discussing the book "Why Men Hate Going to Church,"by David Murrow, which explores the personality of congregations and how they attract or deter male participation.

For the Rev. Jeff Curtis, pastor of Mount Chestnut, and several of his parishioners, the book's topic was one that inspired them.

"As a couple of us read it, it made a lot of sense, and we wanted to be able to share it with others," said Curtis.

In response, Curtis organized a weekly "Men's Camp,"a discussion group that meets around a campfire behind the church.

Dividing the themes of the book into different discussion topics, each week Curtis guides group members as they analyze the author's observations and compare them to their own church experiences.

"I guess (the group) was more designed for those who go to church to make it more attractive for those who don't."

Last Thursday, four men gathered and discussed the climate of the church, describing it as comfortable, peaceful and controlled.

In opposition, Curtis pointed out settings that attract a masculine spirit, including challenge, adventure and achievement.

"Men are changed by what they experience, not by what they are told,"read Curtis from Murrow's book.

Having identified the difference in male and female preferences, the group began to discuss where in their lives they find the sense of challenge and accomplishment they don't always see from the pew.

Truck driver Thomas Shields noted he faces risks in his work every day, trying to stay safe on the road.

"I've probably saved as many people as you did," Shields said to Curtis.

Other participants described their jobs as competitive and challenging.

"You begin to see why often men really enjoy their work,"said Curtis.

The goal for churches, Curtis concluded, is to bring a spirit of challenge into the church to balance the comfort and conformity.

While adventure and risk might be incorporated through mission work or other outreach programs, participants also said the features of church services could also be changed to attract more men.

Marty Hoover noted more men seem to attend Mt. Chestnut's early Sunday service than the later morning service, which is longer and includes more music.

Though practical solutions for changes in the church climate would be saved for another week, Curtis anticipates the discussions will result in changes, some as subtle as choosing a less flowery stationery.

He noted that in the Bible, Jesus often challenged his disciples, who often took risks in defending their faith.

"I think it is coming back,"Curtis said of the spirit of the time. "It's more revival and adventure and not knowing exactly where the church is going."

Though the book targets the masculine spirit, Curtis said changes to the church climate may also attract a younger audience, both male and female.

"The 20s as an age group are missing in the church as well because they're seeking adventure," he said.

<B>WHAT: </B>Men's Camp group discussion of "Why Men Hate Going to Church" by David Murrow<B>WHEN: </B>7:30 p.m. Thursdays<B>WHERE: </B>Mount Chestnut Presbyterian Church, 727 W. Old Route 422, Franklin Township<B>INFORMATION: </B>No reading required, participants should take their own lawn chair<B>CONTACT: </B>The Rev. Jeff Curtis, 724-287-7601