On Saturday, June 30, the Olympic torch will come within seven miles of the OM Lifehope Training Centre in the West Midlands of England. A flame burning brightly that symbolizes the hope of unity all around the world through the Olympic Games, the torch represents a hope that runs even deeper for OM Lifehope.
This summer, OM Lifehope plans to work in communities across the U.K. during the Olympic Games. As part of the “More than Gold” initiative, Lifehope is thrilled to reach out in several different local communities, sharing the love of Jesus, using the Olympics as a connection point to engage people with the gospel.
These outreaches span a variety of activities and locations. The OM DanceLink team will be traveling across the country for three weeks, dancing in public spaces and supporting local churches. Cardiff, Wales, home to the Millennium Stadium, is one of six venues where Olympic soccer is being held, and a soccer outreach is being hosted for children and families there. A youth café and park outreach will take place in Coventry. A kids’ holiday club will be hosted in Kingswinford.
Regardless of where an outreach is taking place, the desire is to creatively share a message of hope in Jesus with people throughout the U.K.
“This is a unique opportunity,” says Stefan Schenkel, short-term outreach coordinator. “As many people can’t join the big sport events in an arena, those who are interested in sports will have an opportunity to get involved in their community.”
On the many outreaches taking place, he says, “It is great to see the churches take initiative to reach out during this time where sport and community are highly important.”
Please pray for this season of outreaches at OM Lifehope. As the Olympic torch makes its way to London, it is a vivid reminder that hope and unity are only possible through Jesus Christ.
