The Churchmen gathered with their spouses on Thursday, April 11, at Sawgrass Beach Club for the organization’s annual Spring Fling.
Approximately 120 people attended and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails followed by dinner and dancing. Those in attendance enjoyed entertainment by the Steve Chapman Trio. The event is the Churchmen’s only gathering of the year at which members bring their spouses.
According to Chairman David Gleason, the all-male organization of approximately 150 members meets 10 times a year on the third Thursday of each month, excluding July and August. The men meet for a luncheon at Sawgrass Beach Club that also includes an interesting guest speaker. Gleason said previous speakers have included Tod Booth, the former owner of the Alhambra and current creative director and producer, as well as Jaguars President Mark Lamping and every mayor of Jacksonville. An average of 90 to 100 men attend each luncheon.
“We have no rules. No guidelines or bylaws,” Gleason said. “It’s just a number of older gentlemen who have a lot of camaraderie and get together and hear some interesting speakers and facts”
The 42-year-old organization was started by Christ Episcopal Church and previously met at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, before moving to Sawgrass Country Club. The Churchmen is now non-denominational and led by a chairman, vice-chairman, treasurer and secretary.
