Not Your Ordinary Ministry

The Racquet.net – University of Wisconsin (4,700 U.S. monthly unique visitors per Quantcast)

By Allen Knappenberber, Nov. 10, 2010

http://www.theracquet.net/features/that-s-life/not-your-ordinary-ministry-1.1768365

What is present in 85 countries, on nearly 125 U.S. college campuses, and on 35 U.S. professional sports teams? The answer is Athletes in Action, or more commonly known as AIA.

Since 1966, AIA has been a world leader and innovator in the sport ministry. The organization exists to help change lives on a spiritual and athletic level not only in the locker room but also in the community.

AIA speaks the language of sport. A language that shatters barriers, surpasses differences, and touches even the non-athletic. More than 500 staff members, countless volunteers, and thousands of athletes stand together to share one message: Life's greatest victory is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

AIA brings the concept of Jesus and his message of victory into the hearts, homes, and communities of millions around the globe.

UW-La Crosse is just one of many college campuses that is host to such an organization. AIA is a Bible study with the motto, "Changed lives" that is geared toward athletes. But student leaders on campus try to invite anyone and everyone to the weekly meetings.

Community team leader Kelly Kirchmeyer is able to see the rewarding aspects of the group manifest themselves each week. "I just feel there is great fellowship and bonding. Getting to know other people's insights on God's word is the true reward," said Kirchmeyer.

But she isn't the only one who thinks AIA is a life-changing experience. In his three years of being a leader of the weekly meetings and manager of the discipleship team, Josh Miller feels that the meetings challenge him both spiritually and mentally. "You are always learning something new," said Miller. "Whether it is a guest speaker or preparing the Bible study for the week, there is always a new dynamic that unfolds."

AIA is more than just a Bible study geared towards athletics. This group participates with campus wide events and fundraisers that anyone can attend. Campus Crusade staff member Mark Ducklow, who works directly with the leaders and members of AIA, commented on his favorite event--the 3 v. 3 basketball tournament hosted each March.

It is a great opportunity where, "People can have fun playing basketball," said Ducklow. "What they don't know is that through this, AIA is raising money to buy mosquito nets for the people of Africa." These nets help fight off mosquitoes that may be carrying malaria or any other sort of disease.

The big seller for fundraising comes from haunting a local corn maze in West Salem. Hidden Trails Corn Maze has asked AIA to help them in their haunting for over six years. Members are happy to contribute time and energy to help local communities. "It's fun to get together outside of the group and learn about people on a more personal level," said Miller. The haunting of the maze takes place every year the weekend before Halloween and Halloween weekend.

Not only do the members of AIA plan fundraisers but they enjoy spending time together outside of the organization. Members try to get to any sporting event UW-L puts on and cheer on the Eagles. They have a passion for sports and through that they want to tell others about what God can do in sports and in your life. They are just regular college students with a desire to grow in their sport spiritually, mentally, and physically. Having fun seems to be a key priority to those involved with this organization.

The primary goal of this group is to give people an opportunity to encounter Jesus, to help them walk and grow in their faith, and to help others find Jesus in their lives.

A typical meeting for AIA consists of announcements, a sport blooper video, an icebreaker, prayer, and then a Bible discussion. Often special speakers will come in and give their testimony or insight into God's word. Recently former Wisconsin Badger football player Luke Swan came in and talked about our significance in this world. With over 40 members, it is the perfect spot to come relax, hang out, and chat with a small group of people about what you believe in.

AIA meets at 9:00 p.m. every Wednesday in room 337 of Cartwright Center. People of all backgrounds and denominations are welcome to attend. It is completely free to become a member.

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