Fellowship of Christian Athletes

True joy comes from faith in Christ, not from external circumstances. When we fall or make mistakes, God offers us new beginnings, like a mulligan in golf. Through Christ, we receive a new heart and spirit, allowing us to bear the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and more. Just as physical training builds endurance and character, spiritual training is the key to cultivating lasting joy. This joy is rooted in Jesus' victory, even in the face of challenges. By surrendering to Him, we realize that He has always been with us, offering fullness of joy in His presence. Joy is knowing you are loved, living fully for Him, and loving others. This is the joy that lasts. Where does your joy lie? https://lnkd.in/gY6B3BQg #fca247 #joy #faith

Every athlete has a field of influence. Fields of Faith provides the space and opportunity for athletes to rally around something more. It’s a time to come together, hear stories of what God has done, and see how the hope of the Gospel continues to transform lives. This is just the starting line for discipleship. Join the movement and watch how God can change one community to the next. Where's your field? “Open your eyes and look at the fields, because they are ready for harvest” John 4:38 Join us in using #FieldsOfFaith so we see what you post! Check out our new website: fieldsoffaith.org

"Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap" - Luke 6:38 Laura Matera, EVP of Action Sports at FCA, grew up in a family of faithful stewards who believed that resources are God-given. Inspired by her grandparents' legacy, she has embraced the truth that investing in people yields incomparable joy. Stewardship, rooted in a healthy mindset that God is the source of all resources, involves intentional investment in people. Matera's two key insights are that people are the best investments and that joy is the greatest reward of stewardship. Her work with FCA exemplifies this, as she invests in young leaders and witnesses the fruits of her labor in their lives. Stewardship requires cultivating relationships and taking risks, guided by the Holy Spirit. It's about managing and expanding resources with joy in light of God's grace. Luke 6:38 reminds us that giving results in an overflow of joy. As we invest in others with the resources entrusted to us, we elevate lives and experience an increase in our own joy. 📰Read more: https://bit.ly/3YPpSne #fcateam #Stewardship #people #faith

Amid our busy schedules as student-athletes, it's crucial to prioritize time with Jesus. He is not just a part of our lives but the cornerstone, the source of our balance and strength. By centering our days around Him, we find the empowerment and support we need to navigate our roles as athletes and students. As discipline is vital in sports, seeking God’s Word daily is essential for spiritual growth and resilience. Additionally, practicing the Sabbath provides necessary rest and renewal, allowing us to recharge and continue living in alignment with God’s plans. Keeping Jesus at the center helps us navigate our hectic routines with purpose and peace. How can you prioritize time with Jesus? What could that look like in your daily life? #fca247 #balance #athlete 📰 https://bit.ly/3SY2ssi

Back to school! As the school year begins, here is a reminder of God's unfailing presence and love. Whether you are stepping into a new grade, new school or facing the challenges of another year, remember these truths: 📌 God is with you: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9 📌 You are uniquely made: "For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us." - Ephesians 2:10 📌 Lean on Him for strength: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13 As you dive into your studies, build friendships and grow in knowledge, know that you are never alone. God is guiding your steps. Remember to shine His light in everything you do. #Backtoschool #fcateam #Faith

From Running to Freedom in Christ 🏃♂️ Paul Williams ran to escape family dysfunction, to break records, and to find belonging. But today, at 74, he looks back and sees how God has woven his story into one of true freedom in Christ. Despite a painful childhood in Huntington Beach, CA, running became Paul’s outlet. He shattered records and earned a scholarship to UCLA, but inside, he was crumbling. A life-changing encounter with God on a beach redirected his path. Through faith, he found a purpose beyond athletics, coaching young runners in both the sport and the ways of God. “I've screwed up a lot in my life, but God's mercy set me free,” Paul reflects. Now, he's running his greatest race yet—one of eternal significance, mentoring young athletes and living out his faith with passion. 🙏 📰 Read more here: https://bit.ly/46KIwP6 📸 Photos courtesy of Paul Williams #faithjourney #RunningToFreedom #FCA #Mentorship #Coaching #FCAteam

NFL QB Nick Foles announced his retirement after 11 years. Foles gives thanks to God for his career. Foles continues to glorify and honor God as he embarks on a new path. FCA Foles Feature found here 👇 https://bit.ly/3LZ2SuA #NFL #FaithinSports #NickFoles #FCATeam

Freddie Crittenden has pushed through to the 110 Hurdles Finals at the Paris Olympics, while repping 'The FOUR'! 💟➗✝️❓ Learn about 'The FOUR': https://thefour.fca.org/ #TheFour #FCATeam #FCA247 #ParisOlympics #Olympics2024 #TrackandField #Hurdles 📸: Courtesy of Freddie Crittenden Instagram

Refuel with Scripture with month! In our busy lives, it’s easy to feel drained and disconnected from our spiritual roots. "Refuel with Scripture" is about taking intentional moments to pause, reflect, and recharge our souls through the powerful words of the Bible. Here’s what it means: → Finding Strength: Scripture provides us with strength during difficult times. → Seeking Guidance: The Bible offers wisdom and direction for our daily lives. → Nourishing Our Spirit: Reading and meditating on Scripture fills us with peace, joy, and a sense of purpose. → Connecting with God: Spending time with Scripture deepens our relationship with God. → Building Community: Sharing and discussing Scripture with others strengthens our faith community. → Finding Hope: The Bible's promises remind us of God’s unwavering love and the hope we have in Him. By incorporating Scripture into our daily routine, we can refuel our hearts and minds, equipping ourselves with the spiritual energy needed to thrive. Let's embrace the transformative power of God's word and let it guide and uplift us every day. #Refuel #fca247 #Faith #Scripture #Community #Hope #Strength #Guidance

Jim Dayhew, an outgoing and relational former rugby and cricket player, has spent decades in coaching and ministry, building long-term relationships. His latest venture is establishing FCA in Australia. Dayhew's 30-year ministry began with a mission trip to New Zealand in 1990. In college, he got involved with Athletes in Action at Sydney University. As a physical education teacher and coach, he felt called to connect sports and young athletes' lives to a deeper purpose. He joined sports ministry full-time, traveling globally and connecting with various organizations. After being introduced to FCA during the 1996 Olympics, he stayed in touch with FCA leaders over the years. In 2020, Dayhew sought FCA's help for a sports camp, leading to a collaboration with the Rockies Region. Despite initial hesitation, by 2022, he launched FCA 360 Australia, leveraging his extensive network to gain traction. By 2023, after visiting the U.S. for FCA training, Dayhew committed to full-time ministry with FCA, driven by his passion for sports ministry and the urgency of the mission in Australia. Dayhew and his team focus on partnering with churches, schools, and clubs, engaging young athletes and their families, and developing coaches. His extensive experience and connections, along with support from FCA's global network, position him to make a transformative impact in Australian sports ministry. #MinistryImpact #Australia #360Australia #FCATeam Read Dayhew's full story: https://bit.ly/3A8bgFq