What could be more important than a gold medal for your country during the Commonwealth Games? The Christians in Greater Manchester are keen to tell as many of their guests as possible the answer to that question. Following last summer's launch of the interdenominational More Than Gold initiative, which was supported by two thousand Christians, churches in Greater Manchester are currently preparing their programme of events around the Games (25th July - 4th August).

Ivor Telfer, Chair of More Than Gold's Management Board, considers the Games an ideal opportunity for the church to communicate the gospel. "There are three universal languages: arts, music and sports. The Church is beginning to use the medium of sport to connect with society." Sports events for the youth and kids holiday clubs will be offered throughout the city, supervised by qualified coaches. "The Games gives us great opportunities to engage youngsters in the fun and games of sport. After the Games, we will continue to capture that enthusiasm and contribute to the development of their talents," he added. Churches will also invite the community to Big Screen events in their halls and cafés with some having Internet facilities to access the latest information about the Games.

An family hosting programme aims to accommodate athletes’ families and coaches. Spokeswoman, Marijke Hoek, comments: "In view of the fact that wealth is not common at all, many coaches and families face a immense financial challenge in visiting the UK. We want to make sure that by offering our hospitality we indeed ‘welcome the world’." During the Olympic Games in Sydney, 53 percent of the athletes’ families were offered hospitality by Christian households.

Many of the Greater Manchester clergy will be involved in the Sport Chaplaincy. Churches will be involved through street outreach with face painting, balloon sculpting and street theatre. Furthermore, a canteen ministry will serve many visitors in the city with refreshments.

"All in all, we hope to serve the Games well this summer with our hospitality, care and enthusiasm and build on the contacts with the community thereafter." Ivor Telfer added, "This, however, is not just an opportunity for the Church in Greater Manchester, but for the church in the whole nation."

Stuart Weir, Christians in Sport, said, "Major sports events have proved wonderful opportunities to communicate our faith. The concept is simple - using the interest in such a major sports event to create a bridge for ministry."

Article from: More than Gold Office