Youth/Sports Discipleship

OVERCOMING WAR WITH PEACE

Who is fighting? When tensions rise and violence starts, who is it that usually goes out to fight? Young people! So, reaching out to teach young adults about the love and peace of Christ is critical.

Sports is a great tool for gathering young adults in Africa. Currently the Center uses volleyball and ping pong, soccer is on the way. A lot of young adults meet weekly at the center for sports and discipleship classes. As a result, we see people giving their lives or recommitting their lives to Jesus Christ.

Bi-annual volleyball tournaments have brought upwards of 500 Christians, Muslims and non-religious young people into the Center. They all knew that the Anabaptist Peace Center is there to promote peace, justice and reconciliation in the local community. The hope is that the medals and trophies which are distributed will help these young people remember there is an alternative to returning violence for violence.

A group of young people playing volleyball outdoors on a grassy field with trees and a brick wall in the background.
Young people seated in a classroom or seminar, wearing matching red and blue T-shirts with event details, participating in a 2021 religious or educational camp.
Group of young adults participating in a team-building activity or dance, standing indoors near chairs and a poster that reads 'War & Peace'.
Children playing volleyball outdoors on a sandy court with cars and trees in the background.
Bronze medal with a volleyball design and green and white ribbon, reading 'Anabaptist Peace Volleyball Tournament, 1st Edition 2021'.