African Sports Ministry Training

 

Staff members Jill Ireland and Kate Warner have recently gone to Uganda to teach sports ministry leaders there.  Here is their recent email.

 

Just got a quick opportunity to jump on the email, might be my only chance, so as the first 3days of training have just finished I thought I'd share some of the feedback from the participants on their evaluation forms, so you can get a feel for the impact of the training.

"My highlight from the course is that now I know more about Jesus' teaching about sport and how to apply them."

In response to being asked what was the most helpful part of the course...

"Learning about reaching out to unbelievers in sport by applying the three principles Pray, Play, Say."

"It has helped me to know how a born again sportsman behaves."

"I have learnt that I have to use my talents and gifts that God has given me for His glory. And that it is not sin or backsliding to be involved in sports so long as we are glorifying God."

"The course has helped me to understand that sport is a vital avenue for evangelism."

"I have been more equipped about sharing the good news of Jesus through sport."

"The course has been so educative, I didn't know that you can also worship God through sport."

When Asked what was the highlight of the course....many said Pray Play Say....

"The foundational components from Col 4:2-6"

"The highlight was to teach me that I can remain a sportsperson while still a Christian."

Maybe you can read between the lines that for many of them being a Christian and being involved in sport are not seen as compatible in Christian culture and Church here. It was so exciting to see them considering sport and sports ministry in new ways.

 

Jill & Kate 10.3.06