In the quest to build robust relationships and foster a sense of community among men, the principles of Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith—collectively known as F3—emerge as pivotal. These three tenets, championed by F3 Nation, serve as foundational elements in invigorating male community leadership.
In a recent podcast episode titled “Fellowshipping Men in Elders Quorum | An Interview with Frank Schwartz,” Schwartz, the volunteer CEO of F3 Nation, and Kurt Francom delved into how these principles can transform men’s lives and, by extension, their communities.
Fitness: Cultivating Discipline and Leadership
Physical fitness is more than just maintaining a healthy body; it’s a gateway to developing discipline and leadership qualities. Schwartz emphasizes that caring for one’s body is the first step toward personal discipline, which is essential for effective leadership. He asserts,
“If you don’t live a disciplined enough life to take care of yourself, it’s very difficult for you to lead others.”
This perspective aligns with the idea that personal well-being directly influences one’s ability to serve and lead within a community. Engaging in regular physical activity not only enhances health but also fosters mental resilience and confidence. For members of the Elders Quorum, integrating fitness into their routine can serve as a practical approach to embodying the principle of discipline, thereby setting a positive example for others.
Additionally, in Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, President Smith said:
“We came to this earth that we might have a body and present it pure before God in the celestial kingdom. The great principle of happiness consists in having a body.”
Added happiness is found as we do those things that will strengthen and support the daily use of our body. Thus, there are a multitude of benefits of maintaining a healthy body.
Fellowship: Building Authentic Connections
In today’s fast-paced world, many men find themselves isolated, lacking deep, meaningful relationships. Schwartz reflects on this societal issue, noting that men often realize they don’t have close friends outside of superficial associations, such as their children’s friends’ parents. He observes that after high school or college, there’s often a 20-year gap where men lack close friendships.
F3 addresses this gap by emphasizing fellowship—creating spaces where men can connect authentically.
Regular gatherings, whether for workouts or community service, provide opportunities for men to bond over shared experiences and challenges. For the Elders Quorum, fostering such fellowship can lead to a more cohesive and supportive community, where members feel valued and connected.
Faith: Embracing a Purpose Beyond Oneself
Faith, as defined by F3, is a belief in something greater than oneself. It’s not confined to a specific religious doctrine but encompasses the understanding that one’s life has a higher purpose. Schwartz articulates that for a man to be an effective leader, he must “believe in something bigger than himself” and “submit himself to that,” using his talents to serve others.
This principle encourages men to look beyond their personal ambitions and consider how they can contribute to the greater good. In the context of the Elders Quorum, embracing this broader perspective can inspire members to engage more deeply in service, mentorship, and community-building activities, thereby enriching the collective spiritual and social fabric.
Implementing F3 Principles in the Elders Quorum Integrating the principles of fitness, fellowship, and faith into the Elders Quorum can revitalize its members and strengthen the community. Here are some actionable steps:
- Organize Regular Physical Activities: Establish weekly workout sessions that are free and open to all men in the community. These sessions can serve as a platform for building discipline and camaraderie.
- Facilitate Small Group Discussions: Create forums where men can share their experiences, challenges, and successes. Such interactions can deepen bonds and provide support systems.
- Encourage Service Projects: Engage in community service initiatives that allow members to work together toward a common goal, reinforcing the concept of serving a purpose greater than oneself.
By embracing these principles, the Elders Quorum can become a beacon of leadership and community spirit. They can reflect the transformative power of fitness, fellowship, and faith through using the F3 format or engaging in the community in another way.
A Vibrant and Engaged Community
For a more in-depth understanding of how these principles can be applied, I invite you to listen to the full podcast episode with Frank Schwartz. His insights offer valuable guidance on fostering a vibrant and engaged community.
Beth Young is a convert of 47 years; served a mission in North Carolina; has been married for 37 years to her sweetheart, Bob; has five adult children and two grandchildren. She raised her family in Texas for 25 years where she served in various capacities in church and in her community. She moved to Utah seven years ago and loves writing, teaching, and inspiring others to make changes to their physical, mental, and spiritual health. Beth is the owner of 5 Pillars of Health, serves as the written content manager at Leading Saints, and is a master gardener.
