Every World Cup produces moments that capture global attention; a dramatic goal, a surprise result or an unforgettable individual performance can become part of football history within moments.
Alongside the football itself, there are often visible expressions of Christian faith: a player kneels in prayer before kick-off; a goal-scorer points heavenwards; an interview concludes with thanks to God. Such moments regularly spark discussion, admiration and sometimes criticism.
Yet these public displays tell only a small part of the story.
Do today's children lack embodied childhood experiences?
When I was a boy growing up in Wales, World Cups arrived with a particular smell: the smell of a …