In this first article on the male aspects of fellowship the author explains the hurdles to be crossed and then outlines what makes a good male friendship work. The article "Even Pastors Need Friends" shows how one pastor in a small Minnesota town has found three nourishing relationships.

My pastor and I like to break away from busy schedules and sit, drink coffee, and talk. Periodically we meet at a nearby restaurant and chat about our families and the church; we've even been known to argue theology.

Some time ago, we shared our reactions to the Olympic games and the phenomenal camaraderie of the male gymnasts. We were struck by the "special something" that happened the night of the team competition. The young men helped one another, celebrated each other's performance, and embraced each other without inhibition or embarrassment.

It was different from the typical champagne-pouring, locker room revelry; the gymnasts seemed genuine friends rather than a pack of victorious wolves. I felt drawn ...