May 2025
This spring, more than 400 community members came together for The Gathering’s 2025 Spring Breakfast in the Miami Valley (Ohio), underscoring the ministry’s powerful mission: to build stronger communities by connecting men to men and men to God.
This year’s featured speaker was Dayton Moore, Founder/Board President of C You In The Major Leagues.
Led by Executive Director Jeff Pinkleton, The Gathering of the Miami Valley (www.GatheringMV.org) continues to impact lives through small groups known as Locker Rooms, seasonal retreats, social gatherings, worship nights, and the Pinkleton Pull-Aside podcast. These initiatives are designed to help men take meaningful steps in their faith journey—whether they’re exploring Christianity for the first time or seeking deeper discipleship.
The Spring and Fall Breakfasts are a unique and significant part of The Gathering’s mission. These biannual events serve as an inviting gateway for people from all walks of life—business leaders, educators, nonprofit professionals, and more—to experience authentic community and hear the gospel in a setting that fosters connection and growth.
As Jeff shared, “These breakfasts are often a person’s first experience with The Gathering. They are a welcoming space to encounter God and build real relationships.”
Although honored to participate, Dayton redirected the spotlight: “The C You In The Major Leagues Foundation was incredibly excited and humbled to be involved with The Gathering’s impact,” he said. “They are such a special and welcoming community. The Gathering is doing incredible work and is a great example of people coming together and doing things that matter.”
In addition to the breakfast, Dayton spoke to nearly 150 students at Emmanuel Christian School, urging them to be culture-shapers within their homes and communities. “I reminded the students that they’re a huge part of growing their environment and shaping the culture around them. Their main team is at home,” he said.
Jon Whitacre, Board Member of The Gathering, echoed this message of spiritual leadership and relational impact: “Dayton could’ve shared accolades and success stories, but instead, he spoke about people. He sees young men not as athletes, but as sons, brothers, future husbands and fathers. That perspective changed how I want to view those around me.”
The Spring Breakfast comes at a time when Springfield, Ohio—one of the cities served by The Gathering—has been thrust into the national spotlight for reasons that deeply misrepresent its true character. The reality of Springfield stands in stark contrast to that narrative. Events like The Gathering’s Spring Breakfast shine a light on the strength, warmth, and integrity of its people. Instead of division, Springfield is home to communities marked by faith, mentorship, and a genuine desire to grow together in love and truth.
The Gathering’s consistent focus on real relationships and spiritual growth continues to transform lives throughout the Miami Valley. Their work is a reminder that strong, lasting change doesn’t begin with a platform or a headline—it begins with small acts of faithfulness: showing up, listening well, and walking together in Christ.
At C You In The Major Leagues, we are proud to walk alongside organizations like The Gathering. Their commitment to building people of integrity and fostering a community rooted in faith is not only admirable—it’s necessary in times like these.