Hon. William Wagner (Ret) Addresses Annual Bonfire Gathering at Historic Withee Farm

Marshal Michigan, October 19, 2025

This past weekend, men from across Michigan gathered at the Historic Withee Farm for the Annual Bonfire Event, a tradition that blends fellowship, faith, and the renewal of purpose. Set against the crisp autumn backdrop of rural Michigan, the two-day gathering offered both reflection and challenge for those committed to living out their faith in public and private life.

Fellowship Around the Fire

The event opened Friday evening with the lighting of a towering bonfire, its flames illuminating hymns sung under the open sky. Attendees stood shoulder to shoulder, their voices rising in worship, symbolizing unity, strength, and devotion. The evening’s focus was one of renewal: rekindling faith, friendship, and courage to serve God and neighbor with conviction.

When Men Love the Lord!

Faith, Family, and Freedom: A Morning of Insight

Saturday morning began with a hearty country breakfast and an address by the Honorable William Wagner, Distinguished Chair for Faith and Freedom at the Wagner Faith & Freedom Center. In his remarks, Wagner provided a timely Supreme Court update, focusing on cases shaping the future of faith, family, and freedom in America.

Drawing from his judicial and academic expertise, Wagner warned that the moral and constitutional foundations of liberty require vigilant stewardship. “We stand at a moment when the meaning of freedom itself is being redefined,” Wagner said. “Whether it is the right of conscience, the sanctity of family, or the freedom to live out one’s faith—each depends upon courageous citizens willing to stand firm in truth.”

His address encouraged attendees to engage thoughtfully in civic life, upholding both constitutional principles and biblical truth in an age of cultural confusion.

Keynote Inspiration and Lasting Impact

The weekend concluded with a powerful keynote message from a the Chaplain of Hillsdale College, who spoke on the Psalm’s enduring influence in the shaping of moral character. Together, the sessions called men to lead with integrity and conviction in their homes, communities, and churches.

The Annual Bonfire Event continues to grow as a hallmark of faith-based leadership renewal in Michigan, drawing men from diverse backgrounds united in their commitment to God, country, and liberty.