Vol. 2 No. 1, April 2025

Escalating the Role of Sport and Wellbeing in Faith Communities: Strategic Approaches for Ministry and Community Engagement

Parker, Andrew, PhD

Abstract

This paper explains the role of sport and well-being in faith communities, focusing on the Church of England’s national
strategy for integrating sports into ministry and community engagement. The initiative, launched in 2020, seeks to
promote physical and mental well-being, enhance community connections, and address social challenges such as loneliness
and health disparities. The Church aims to embed sports ministry within its diocesan structures, develop partnerships with
secular and faith-based organizations, and establish sustainable funding sources. Key findings from the three-year project
highlight the importance of leadership, strategic alignment, volunteer engagement, and structured training programs for
sports ministers. Challenges such as post-COVID church disengagement and competing social priorities are addressed,
emphasizing the need for innovative outreach strategies. The presentation underscores the transformative potential of
sports in fostering holistic well-being and community development within faith-based settings.

Keywords

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