I wanted to share what I thought was a good example of how athletes have INFLUENCE over others (whether we like it or not) by sharing a story that hits very close to my own home...

My 4 year-old daughter, Andrea, just recently attended a high school Pom practice where she watched the Benton, Central, Lafayette, and LeBlond Pom squads practice for their upcoming City Football Jamboree routine. My sister is Benton's Pom sponsor and was baby-sitting my kiddos that evening. So after just two short hours around these girls watching their every move, Andrea came home wanting to be just like them. She wanted to have her hair done like theirs, wanted to get dressed just like them, wanted to put on her tennis shoes (which I can NEVER get her to wear) just like them, and is now making Jason play basketball in the living room as I type this so that she can cheer and dance during his "game"- just like them.

You get it? Athletes (and yes cheerleaders and Pom girls are included) are looked up to and followed by others, especially the kids below them. But where are they leading their "followers"? And more importantly who are THEY following? Who are THEIR role models? Is it Britney Spears? Katy Perry? Or is it the local star cheerleader, the captain of the boys' basketball team, or the local head coach who is living for Jesus and isn't ashamed of it and is using their influence for good? Well who is it? Everyone looks up to someone...right?

That's where the Fellowship of Christian Athletes sports ministry can step in. Our vision is to "see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the INFLUENCE of athletes and coaches." The FCA TEACHES student-athletes and coaches how to lead using Biblical principles and empowers them to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

So as a follower of Jesus and also a parent to young children, I refuse to just sit around, do nothing, and watch these "pop stars" lead our kids down a path of destruction without at least attempting to show them an alternative route. A route that will lead them to LIFE! It's time we do something about it. But who's with us? Who's willing to help? We so badly NEED volunteers/financial supporters/prayers to come alongside the NWMO FCA to help us to carry out the mission of FCA: "to present to athletes and coaches and all whom they influence the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationships and in the fellowship of the Church."

We are currently trying to establish an FCA Campus Ministry presence at each of the 5 St. Joe high schools. But the feat is too great to do alone.Will you help us? If you're interested in joining the FCA TEAM or would like more information about how YOU can get involved, please contact us! Together we CAN make a difference for tomorrow right here in St. Joseph, MO and in our surrounding communities... Thank you! :)