Gnarly Networking

On April 3rd to April 6th I had the opportunity to attend the ACTS North America action sports ministry summit in Vancouver Canada along side 25 other partners in ministry. Some of the ministries in attendance were Ride Nature, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, SkateLife, Operation Mobilization and others.

Each day consisted of some time of community, discussion, and some adventures. Over the course of the weekend we went through series of strategic ministry exercises called Looking Back, Looking Around and Looking Forward. Each of these helped us all narrow our focus and discuss what God’s plan for action sports ministry could be.  It was through these that each person was able to seek out what the Holy Spirit was laying on their hearts. As these things were mentioned, praise was offered for the past victories, support for the current struggles, and excitement for the future plans. The goal of all of this was to equip and encourage all of us to go back to our separate ministries as one body of Christ though we were in many places and action sports. 

During the adventure time together we visited several skateparks, hiked in North Vancouver to a beautiful view, participated in some axe throwing and in general had a solid time of networking and building relationships with one another. There was even a point where some of us got to do some rock climbing. As we visited the various sights around Vancouver you could just feel the joy of the Lord in the air.

As we visited various skateparks around the area, we got to connect and share our love of skateboarding with the local riders. In particular, I met a few guys and on one occasion helped one kid learn how to “drop in” for the first time. When we went to the first park, I met a guy named Toby. He was so excited to see new riders at his park and asked why were we here. I told him that we were meeting for a ministry summit at the local church there, and he knew where it was. At another park, I connected with a rider named Koen. Koen was a really good skater, and was battling tricks left and right. I got to encourage him and see him land what we as riders call a NBD (Never Been Done). He was grateful for the encouragement. As I looked around at each of the parks, It was a blessing to see our team doing ministry everywhere I looked. God was at work. 

As I reflect and look back on the weekend and remember the feelings and joys that occurred. I can see what God did and is doing through this amazing group of people. God is doing things in all the corners of the globe, no matter what age group, country, gender, and language. This makes me really pumped up and excited for the future of action sports ministry.

Community and networking events like this make all the difference to those in ministry. The Bible talks about the importance of community building in several places, but in particular Hebrews 10:24-25 comes to mind. It says, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." The Day mentioned here is the Day of the Lord or the second coming. As we spent time encouraging and building up one another, I could see our passion for making disciples grow immensely. We are indeed looking forward to the Day when our Savior and King returns to us.

Group Photo Overlooking Vancouver

I want to personally thank all of JSAW's donors who gave to make this amazing experience happen. If you would like to help make leadership development opportunities like this happen in the future, please consider giving to JSAW by either sponsoring a rider or by sponsoring one of JSAW's small groups, one time outreach events or other opportunities at jsaw.org/sponsor. Thank you all for helping us make riders into disciples of Jesus Christ as we continue to transform action sports culture through your continued support.