Northern Ireland: Sharing the gospel through sports

Ministry in Northern Ireland is an opportunity to bring hope and unity to a nation shaped by history, division, and spiritual need. In a place where faith and culture have long been intertwined, God is writing a new story of reconciliation and transformation.

Northern Ireland and Ireland exist as neighbors on the same island, but differences remain. Northern Ireland became separate from Ireland in the 1920’s, remaining part of the United Kingdom, while Ireland became its own republic. This division established two distinct political systems that have greatly influenced their differences. Broadly, Ireland and Northern Ireland differ in politics, currency, religion, and culture.

When Northern Ireland separated from Ireland, it was originally intended to be a Protestant land, setting itself apart from a Catholic Ireland. However, the religious landscape has shifted over time, with Catholicism growing and forming a population now nearly evenly split between the two faiths. This shift has brought changes to the political, social, and cultural climates, opening the door for the gospel to bring reconciliation and hope.

Seeing the need for belonging and unity, our partner helps create spaces for students to build relationships and learn of the hope of Christ through sports. They intentionally use sports ministry because they recognize the powerful influence sports have on people. Their mission is to “use sports to bring people together, build relationships and see people of all ages become enthusiastic followers of Christ who are living contagious Christian lives”. 

Our partner involves local churches and schools in their ministry to ensure all people have a place to learn about themselves and more importantly, about God. They work alongside churches to support their ministry and help develop sports outreach programs that reach the community. They also partner with schools to reach young people with the gospel through sports. Additionally, they engage with performance opportunities for skilled athletes to compete and grow in their faith.

Short term teams will be partnered with a local church to serve alongside them in community outreach. Sports ministry with local churches in Northern Ireland often looks like recreational camps, sports camps, or Bible Clubs in soccer, basketball, volleyball, golf, and more. Teams can help facilitate camps and clinics for players and coaches, equipping and training them in both their sport and in following Jesus. 

Even during sports camps, teams have the opportunity to share Bible lessons and have gospel-centered conversations with participants. Serving alongside the local church in this way produces lasting fruit, helping people encounter Christ and connect with a local church for long-term discipleship.

If you are considering being a part of sports ministry in Northern Ireland, we would love to hear from you. Contact us at info@servantlife.com