What does the Fellowship of Christian Athletes look like to you? Is it a group of athletes gathered in a classroom to discover how the Bible relates to their lives? Or possibly a coach encouraging a young athlete in his or her life struggles? Maybe it’s a staff of coaches studying leadership together? These are just a few of the many snapshots of the FCA ministry.
The Coronavirus pandemic has halted activity in most areas of our life, including athletics. No practices or competition. No victories or team gatherings. But we want you to know this – FCA ministry is not canceled! It just looks a bit different right now.
During this season of isolation, FCA has quickly responded with innovative, exciting ways to keep coaches and athletes connected as they grow in Christ. Likewise, North Central Illinois FCA isn’t running away from the challenges of ministry – we are running TOWARD them! Below are some of the ways in which ministry has continued.
VIRTUAL STUDENT HUDDLES
Sean Shook, a Normal West baseball player who faithfully attended both Normal West and Game Seven baseball team huddles, recently gave his life to Christ and was baptized – while maintaining quarantine protocols!
Volunteer, Todd Cerny, served as a “Character Coach” to Coach Steve Clapp and the BHS Baseball Team – sitting in on weekly virtual meetings as the team read through the book “Chop Wood, Carry Water.”
VIRTUAL COACHES HUDDLES
The Coach’s huddle at Normal West converted quickly to virtual meetings and didn’t miss a beat – working through the bible study “Kings and Coaches.”
Our IWU Coach’s virtual huddle recently completed a study of “Chop Wood, Carry Water – How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great” by Joshua Medcalf.
Our virtual coach’s huddles were so successful this last semester that we are currently forming huddles to meet during summer break – which has never happened before!
MINISTRY GROWTH
We aren’t looking to shrink – we are looking to GROW the ministry!
Renee Smith has joined our staff as a PT Administrative Assistant
We are working to add an Area Representative to our staff this summer!
Area Director, Jim Collins, is looking forward to again serving the IWU football and ISU basketball teams in a Character Coach/Chaplain role this season
Ministry growth requires more resources – more Bibles and more books for Coaches and Athletes to use in huddles. Our Home Team banquet last November was not as financially successful as previous dinners and the pandemic has forced some partners to pause or reduce their financial support, causing a shortfall to meet our growth needs.
OUR GOAL IS TO SEE AT LEAST 30 NEW HOME TEAM MINISTRY PARTNERS GIVING AT LEAST $30 PER MONTH
Will you prayerfully consider financially supporting North Central Illinois FCA in this time of virtual ministry in one of the following ways?
1. Become an automated monthly partner for $30 or more
2. If you are already a ministry partner, perhaps you could Increase your monthly contribution by $30 or more
3. Consider other financial gifts
Your gift today, along with your prayers, will help us continue to engage, equip, and empower coaches and athletes. When the pandemic subsides, they will emerge as bolder and stronger champions of faith, ready to influence the world for Jesus Christ.
