Brian Glynn, Communications Officer
It’s tournament football season, and we’re not just talking about the World Cup drama unfolding! At the end of June more than 150 people gathered for the East Kent Christians in Sport Network's annual 6-a-side football tournament. Teams consisted of players from 12 churches and friends they’d invited to enjoy the tournament and hear more about the Christian faith.
A growing opportunity
Network leader Ben Wildman reflected on the growth of the tournament:
"This was the fourth year we've run the tournament and it just keeps getting bigger every year. It's really encouraging."
Throughout the year, the East Kent Network meets termly to pray together and hosts an annual guest event. The football tournament has become a significant opportunity to bring Christians and their friends together from across the region.
"It shows what's possible," Ben said. "We might only be a small network meeting to pray, but together we represent lots of churches and individuals. Then, at an event like this, you see more than 150 people gathered together. That's really encouraging."
“It was brilliant to see so many churches making the most of the day, from a number of bigger churches in the Canterbury area, to another where just one Christian player brought everyone from his weekly 6-a-side team.”
During the tournament, players gathered for a short gospel talk given by Oz Power of Barton Church, explaining how Jesus is the ultimate rescuer and why it’s important to consider eternal things rather than focusing on what is temporary.
Bibles were given away and every player took away a copy of Who Is the Real GOAT?—a short booklet explaining the good news of Jesus through the lens of football. There was also a chance to signpost players to future events and local church services.
Prioritising partnership
The tournament also created valuable space for church leaders to connect. Short conversations throughout the day included sharing ideas, discussing the needs of different ministries and exploring ways churches could support one another more effectively in local mission.
"The event isn't just about football," Ben explained. "It's also a chance for local church leaders to talk about how their ministries can grow and how we can collaborate. That’s where a Network event run together with churches can be so effective; it's about kingdom work not empire building. We want to see the kingdom of God advancing together, not simply growing our own individual opportunities. That's been really encouraging to see."
“Our plans are already underway for next year's event, and the East Kent Christians in Sport Network would love to welcome more churches and individuals to get involved.”
If you're based in East Kent and would like to connect with the network, you can find out more by clicking here.