Gospel preached at East Kent football tournament

More than 150 people gathered for the East Kent Christians in Sport Network’s annual 6-a-side football tournament, bringing together players from 12 churches alongside friends invited to enjoy the day and hear the good news of Jesus.

Network leader Ben Wildman said: “This was the fourth year we've run the tournament and it just keeps getting bigger every year. It's really encouraging seeing so many churches coming together to reach sportspeople with the good news of Jesus.”

The East Kent Christians in Sport Network meets each term to pray together and hosts an annual guest event, and the football tournament has become one of its most significant opportunities to unite churches. Ben reflected that although the network itself is relatively small, events like this demonstrate the impact of churches working together: “Teams ranged from larger congregations in the Canterbury area to one church represented by a single Christian who invited his entire weekly 6-a-side team.”

During the tournament, players paused to hear a short gospel talk from Oz Power of Barton Church, who spoke about Jesus as the ultimate rescuer and encouraged everyone to consider eternal things rather than focusing on what is temporary. Bibles were given away and every player also received a copy of Who Is the Real GOAT?, a football-themed booklet explaining the message of Jesus, along with information about local churches and future events.

The day also provided valuable opportunities for church leaders to connect, share ministry ideas and discuss ways to strengthen gospel partnership across the region.

“The event isn't just about football,” Ben said. “It's about how we can collaborate. It's kingdom work, not empire building. We want to see the kingdom of God advancing together, not simply growing our own individual opportunities.”

Planning is already underway for next year's tournament, with the network hoping even more churches and individuals will take part.