Men's Education for Nonviolence
Men’s Education for Nonviolence (M.E.N.’s) Program
The Cycle of Violence
Domestic Violence is multi-generational. Most men who have used abusive or controlling behavior witnessed abuse in their homes as children or were abused themselves. Because controlling behavior is learned, it can be unlearned.
The cycle of intimate partner violence often begins with a build-up of tensions and angry words which may escalate into physical assault. Afterword, the man may become remorseful and make heartfelt promises to never do it again…research demonstrates that without intervention, the cycle will repeat itself!
No cost to you! No Program Fees.
All fees (intake, orientation, weekly group sessions, administrative fees, and participant workbooks) are provided for free.
Participant Requirements
Participants sign a covenant and agree to:
- Remain violence free for the duration of the program.
- During weekly sessions demonstrates appropriate behavior, complete weekly homework, and actively participate.
- Agree to re-engage in, or join a faith-based community of their choice.
Referral Process
Faith leaders and others who become aware of intimate partner violence, will talk with the candidate, and if he is interested, contact the BUMC at 512-295-5592 and press option 5 for the M.E.N.’s Program or email us at menfornonviolence@budaumc.org. Self-referring men may also apply.
Why a Faith-Based Approach?
Distancing oneself from God, as a form of self-punishment, is one tendency that many people court-referred for spouse abuse treatment have done.
“God teaches us that ‘changed attitudes and behaviors’ rather than tears, extravagant gifts, or desperate promises bespeak genuine repentance”
Who We Are?
A Faith-Based sponsored mission to help men attain nonviolent interactions and refrain from all abusive behaviors in their intimate relationships.
Who Can Attend?
The Men’s Program is designed as a voluntary program for men wanting to reach out for help/support in ending abuse towards an intimate partner. It is acknowledged that there are not sufficient programs available in our community, so referrals from courts will be accepted. However, mandated participants will need to follow the same high participation standards for responsibilities and accountability as voluntary members.
Program Components
Potential members will complete a phone interview and, if appropriate, will attend a 2-hour individual intake, assessment/orientation. If considered a good match for the program, participants will attend a 36-week evidenced-based program.
The Men’s Program does not meet the needs for or considered a replacement for:
- Alcohol/drug Treatment
- Mental Health Intervention/Treatment
- Individual Counseling
- Marriage/Family Counseling
- Parenting classes
For more information:
512-295-5592, option 5
"I just completed the 36-week (72 hour) Men's (Men's Education for Nonviolence) Program at Buda United Methodist Church. There was no mandate requiring my participation as I joined voluntarily.
During my 25 years of marriage, there were many ups and downs and I so wished for help yet did not know where to turn or who to ask. It was a chance encounter with Mr. Ken at a men's bible study that I first heard about this program for men. It was a blessing for me to have attended that new group, at that moment in time, and to realize that I had an opportunity to learn to be noncontrolling and nonviolent in my relationship with my wife. I believe God blessed me and that I was supposed to cross paths with Mr. Ken. With my new hope at changing, I discussed with my family my desire for change and choice to commit to the class. Although I felt I was very sincere in wanting to change, my wife and children had no faith that I would finish the program.
During my 36+ weeks I started to use the practices in the book Alternatives to Domestic Violence, as well as follow the guidance and words of wisdom from Mr. Ken and Ms. Meagan. My peers in class helped me understand about accountability. Although I still feel I have work to do on myself, my life has definitely changed for the better! And although this program was all about me and my need for change, I do recognize that my wife and kids are happy now. I no longer use loudness or profanity to get my way.
We go to church now and all believe that anybody can change. I thank the author of the book and the people in the book. I thank my peers in the class, and many thanks for Mr. Ken and Ms. Meagan for their time and expertise."
— Men's Program Completer 2026