Howland United Methodist Church (Central Valley District) continues to grow a ministry that is reaching out to its community in ways that are fresh yet familiar. Since 2020 the congregation has invited area children to come into the building to learn how to play a sport, receive some coaching in life, and learn some basic biblical truths. This spring the sport is volleyball.
“We actually only have about a dozen church kids, and the rest are from the community, so it is a big community outreach. So, it’s a big opportunity to connect. There are 150 families twice a week in our building and we’re trying to bridge the connection between that and our church,” shared Kaila Mohney, who is the director of Youth and Sports Ministries at Howland UMC.
There are 152 players spread across 16 teams from kindergarten up through 8th grade. Mohney and others in leadership stressed that there are enough teams for volleyball every day of the week, with practices running Monday through Wednesday and games taking place on Thursday and Friday. In fact, volleyball is so popular that it quickly became the most popular among all of Howland’s sport offerings.
Family Encouraged Through Bible Lessons
The sports league is also a ministry. Each practice includes a devotional element and Scripture memorization. During a break in between sets some parents are invited to participate in an activity with their children that helps reinforce that week’s lesson. The day I was there the lesson was listening to instructions.
One parent praised the program and its impact on her children.
“It’s quite a program she’s built here, it’s pretty amazing. My oldest daughter has worked her way up through here and now my younger daughter as well,” shared Stephanie.
Often students who have aged out of the program come back to help with the ministry.
“That’s something kind of cool you’ll see is a lot of kids who have aged out come back as helpers. One of our coaches for our 6th to 8th graders is someone who grew up in the program,” said Mohney.
Prior to this current season kicking off the leadership was able to lead a short five-day clinic to help kids get used to the rules and skills they would need to play on a volleyball court. “Each day had stations: serving, passing and receiving, footwork, positions, hitting and setting. We opened and closed with games and a devotion. We had 75 players all together. We took camp photos that they got home as well,” shared Mohney.
Sports Ministry Fulfills Commitment to Community
The work of Mohney, Buratti and their army of volunteers is not lost on the leadership of the church.
“The dream and vision of the Sports Ministry program for Howland UMC reflects their commitment to being the church to the whole community. As pastor of the church for these few months, I’ve witnessed an incredible spirit of community ministry to both children and families through the sports ministry. Hearing the stories of the activities planned, volunteers engaged and the level of excitement around the ministry speaks volumes to how the church is to be in ministry. I’ve witnessed teenagers volunteering and leading activities. I see young people living their faith by their actions and volunteering of time and talents to the children.
Sports as a rule break down a lot of barriers between individuals to form a team. Howland sports ministry is doing the work to break down barriers not only between individuals, but between people and the church as well.
Your Generosity Helps Others
By supporting your local congregation’s outreach ministries, you impact lives of your surrounding communities and those around the world. No matter what part of the world we live in, your generosity can reach across oceans and help churches like Howland UMC reach out to their community.
excerpt from a story by Brett Hetherington, Communications specialist for the East Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church.
This story represents how United Methodist local churches through their Annual Conferences are living as Vital Congregations. The overarching purpose of The United Methodist Church is to "make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." A vital congregation is one that is effectively engaged in this mission. Together, we become a powerful force for healing, growth, and transformation—living out the Gospel in every corner of the globe.
