About

About 316 Outdoors Ministries

Welcome to 316 Outdoors, where the wilderness becomes a sacred space for the journey of faith and brotherhood. Our mission is to facilitate opportunities for men to connect with Christ in the great outdoors. Seeking adventures in the heart of nature, we provide unique ministry activities for men seeking purpose, connection, and adventure. We believe that the rugged beauty of creation serves as a powerful backdrop for forging lasting friendships and deepening our relationship with the Creator.

Through outdoor excursions, wilderness retreats, and meaningful discussions around the campfire, we strive to inspire men to embrace their authentic selves and embark on a transformative journey of faith. Join us as we explore the untamed landscapes of both the wilderness and the heart, where bonds are strengthened, souls are rejuvenated, and the divine connection is discovered anew.

The 316 Outdoors Story

316 Outdoor Ministries found it’s beginning in the hearts of two pastors, brothers who envisioned building not only an outdoor men’s ministry, but a legacy to leave to their children, grandchildren and the men in their communities. Eddie Miner and James Southard share a passion for fishing and hunting, and long dreamed of reaching men for the cause of Christ in a unique way. In 2022, 316 Outdoors was born. In the first year of operation, they hosted five fishing tournaments and began to watch their ministry dreams come to fruition as men connected to one another, to a vibrant Christ-centered community and to God!

In 2023, their new endeavor encountered its first challenge, as Eddie was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. For the better part of that year, Eddie and his family, and the 316 Outdoors community fought and prayed for his full recovery. On April 26, 2024 the Lord called Eddie home after a long and hard battle and we know that God’s glory was and still is on display and revealed every day through Eddie’s testimony and legacy of faith.

As 316 Outdoors Ministries has continued to endure and see the hopes and vision from its inception take root and grow into new and exciting opportunities, the foundation of this ministry and Eddie’s passion for reaching men through conversations started around a campfire or on a boat are the fuel that will continue to drive this ministry forward, to keep pursuing God and community, to keep reaching our sons and our grandsons with the good news of Jesus.

A simple love for God, people, and the great outdoors are what brought Eddie, James and 316 Outdoor Ministries together. The hope of this ministry is that every single day we can continue to honor that mission, for the glory of God. 

Meet Your Guide

James is a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, hunter, fisherman, and adventurer who has a passion for reaching men with the good news of Jesus and encouraging them to grow in their walk with God into the men they are called to be.

JAMES SOUTHARD / MINISTRY & ADVENTURE GUIDE