*Disclaimer: This is a general description for Sports Ministry Specialist There are so many things that change for the specific situation each person is in. This is a tool for you to look at to help you see if this is a place that you could serve the Lord. If you have more questions or are interested in Sports Ministry, please contact us.
General Job Description: Sports Ministry Specialist
Reports to: OC Team leader, Sports Ambassador Director
Relates to: OC team, Sports Ambassador Director
Overview: A Sports Ministry Specialist may focus on one or more of a wide range of ministries relating to using sports or activity to grow the global church. These ministries may be short-term in nature or long-term. Sometimes the worker is involved in the sport or activity directly and sometimes they act as a facilitator for others who are directly involved with sports. Specific applications will fall in line with the goals of the resident OC team.
Specifics: Opportunities in sports ministry are always a means to an end and they fall into three categories. Playing or coaching on a sport team comprises the largest number of workers. Sports Ambassadors sends three to five teams a year to various places in the world to share the gospel using the sport played as the vehicle. Individual players on a foreign sports team is also a possibility in some places. Using a sporting activity to directly minister to others is a second category. An example is using sport to facilitate inclusion of less abled people into their societies. A final category is helping the church to employ sports as a tool to meet the needs of its community and spread the gospel. Starting a church basketball league would be an example of this third area of ministry.
Salary: Nearly all membercare ministry opportunities will require that the worker raise financial support for salary, benefits and ministry. Some players on foreign teams may receive a small stipend for their living expenses but visa laws usually prohibit receiving an actual salary without the appropriate employment visa.
Position Requirements: The ideal candidate for the Sports Ministry Specialist role overseas will have a passion for, and experience in, a sport, athletics, coaching or teaching a sport. A degree in a sports related field of study may be helpful and a relatable personality is also a plus. A heart for evangelism along with training and experience sharing your faith with others will allow the worker to be more effective. An advanced degree is only necessary if the candidate will be working as a professional. An advanced degree may be helpful in getting and maintaining a visa in the host country. Seminary education is not necessary but is never discouraged. Command of the local language and culture is extremely helpful for those living and working in a different country but is usually not necessary for short-term experiences.