Time is fast approaching when we leave for Rio – May 14. Passports and visa applications are in the mail. Final preparations are being made. I love this time each year when things come together for the sports evangelism mission trip. Deadlines for classes, papers due, tests – and then final exams – we’ll be on our way before we know it!
It is reassuring to read the blogs of these volleyball players and sense their excitement for the journey that is before them. What an incredible group of young Christian women and coaches who have said “yes” to the call for ministry! I can’t wait to experience this with them.
This will be trip #5 to Rio for me. Each trip and ministry has been different and unique. This is the first trip to use volleyball as the platform for sharing Christ. We will play local club teams, work with the local churches, play and work with children and youth in schools and communities, and spend one day with the Brazilian Women’s Olympic Volleyball Team at the Brazilian Olympic facility! Wherever we are and whatever we do, following our play and interaction, we will have an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ and how to have a relationship with Him!
The Pan American Games will be held in Rio in July. Churches, missionaries, and lay leaders are using the emphasis on sport, in anticipation of the Games, to connect with the people of Rio and share Christ. There will be other volunteer teams from Tennessee going to do various kinds of ministry leading up to and during the Pan Am Games.
Many of you have supported us through financial contributions. Thank you!
Pray for us! Pray for:
1. Safe travel and safety in play
2. Cultural adjustment, adaptability, and flexibility
3. Spiritual walk – that each member of the team will be totally dependent on God and open to His leadership
4. A positive attitude
5. Good Health – strong stomach as we adapt to change in food & eating habits
6. “Christlikeness” – friendly smile; a gentle, caring and loving spirit
7. Witnessing Opportunities – sensitivity to opportunities and BOLDNESS to verbalize the gospel
8. For church and lay leaders
9. Missionaries Ray and Sharon Fairchild and Translators
10. A “life-changing” experience for each member!
Thank you… for joining our team as “prayer partners” and encouragers.