FCA Endurance: Running With Perseverance
Rebecca Urrutia
October 9, 2009
Filed under Sports, Sports News
It started out as a dream, a God-given vision to reach the world for Christ through an intense and rigorous sports ministry. Now, it has spread all throughout the nation, branching out into American communities with the goal of “Competing for Christ” and bringing glory to God both physically and spiritually.
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Endurance Team is a beautiful example of how one can use athletics to spread the Gospel. Our very own Physical Education Teacher and Coach, Mrs. Tina Reeder, has been a part of FCAE for two years. As part of the team, the athletes train and compete in various 5 K races, marathons, and even the Ironman Triathlon.
In case you were wondering, Ironman Triathlons consist of running 26.2 miles, swimming 2.4 miles, and biking 112 miles. This is truly running with perseverance, yet as much as they work on training their physical bodies, the team members focus equally on exercising their spiritual muscles. One of the main verses on the FCA Endurance website is 1 Timothy 4: 7-8, which says: “Train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
The athletes train their spiritual bodies through prayer meetings and conferences where they learn how to share the Gospel through endurance sports. Mrs. Reeder says, “I love to do events all over the country and find teammates that share my same passion for endurance sports and for Christ.” A dozen CCA parents and teachers have joined Mrs. Reeder on the FCAE Team, and if you want to be involved in this exciting, hardcore ministry for Christ, contact her at tinar@ccaeagles.org.
On November 21, Calvary’s FCAE Team will be participating in the Fantasy of Lights 5K run in Tradewinds Park, and it is not too late to get involved! Contact Mrs. Reeder soon to sign up for this upcoming race! “May the God who gives ENDURANCE and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Jesus Christ, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6