*“From the Bench”

If you've read the articles from our sports programs, you'll see that we're having a successful year on the field, court and course. All in all, we're doing very, very well. However, what thrills me even more than all of that is something else that has been happening at FEAST this fall and is gaining momentum: the significant growth of our Christ-centered witness.

Cross country receives a consistent flow of praise from competitors and coaches from all over the area about how well the program is run, but they are receiving increased recognition for their graciousness and willingness to help others. As they receive press coverage and praise from all kinds of people, our runners have been humble and gracious in their response. I've received reports about the volleyball team and how they have been Christ-like in competition, in spite of incidents where the situation has been a bit hostile. Instead of retaliation, our ladies have been humble and kind as they have responded with steady, sportsmanlike play.

The varsity football team recently received a high compliment from a referee - he said that the FEAST team was the most polite, cooperative and sportsmanlike team that he's ever seen. For the middle school football team, they received compliments from one team that said "those guys are really Christians - they don't talk trash and they even let us know when we do a good job!" When you hear all of these reports, it makes you even more grateful for the Holy Spirit and His leading in these athletes' lives.

Each program has faced some challenges this year, and, yet, God has been faithful. I have heard from quite a few opposing coaches and athletic directors this fall, sharing with me that they are grateful for the encouragement and fellowship that they enjoy with FEAST coaches and athletes. They've seen FEAST teams face challenges, but they've also noted the response, too. That type of praise comes from Godly leadership and obedience to His call from all involved, and it also comes from the lessons that they are learning in practice.

God is doing a great work with FEAST Athletics and He is not done yet. Please encourage and support our FEAST athletic programs. Not only do these programs build Christ-like character, perseverance and teamwork, but they also are a significant example of what home school families are all about. Support our programs as they give a real-life witness of Christ-centered lifestyles through home schooling.

Dear FEAST families,

Since its inception, the focus and overriding purpose of FEAST Sports has been to provide a positive Christian environment for spiritual growth through athletics to currently home schooling families.

It is the desire of FEAST Sports that Jesus Christ be expressed and glorified in the lives of commissioners, coaches, parents and students not only in actions, but in words and thoughts.

For almost 20 years, FEAST's sports activities have been made possible by the volunteer efforts of countless home school parents. FEAST is so grateful for the investment that so many have made in the lives of our home schooling families. Your participation as a family unit continues to be a vital component of the FEAST Sports ministry objectives.

Please see the invitation below for opportunities to serve in FEAST Sports for the 2008-2009 season.

To God be the Glory,
The FEAST Board of Directors

Click here to view the invitation.

Click her to view the PDF version.