The Nazarene youth in Timor-Leste are utilizing sports such as futsal (a hardcourt version of soccer) and volleyball as a ministry tool. The country’s Nazarene Youth International (NYI) program is not only creating a space for togetherness but also presents the values of Christianity among the young generation.
These activities actively involve young members of the Church of The Nazarene, who enthusiastically participate in each match. However, what makes this ministry even more meaningful is its openness to invite and compete in friendly matches with youth from various church denominations in Dili City.
The uniqueness of this sports ministry lies in its emphasis on biblical foundation. Each match begins with a communal prayer, inviting God’s presence to accompany each player and the game. This is not intended to be a formality, but rather an acknowledgment that everything done is for God’s glory. After the match, all participants gather again to listen to the reading of God’s Word, concluding their time with prayer.
This approach turns sports into effective disciple-making tools. The activities instill in young people values such as teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, and mutual respect in alignment with biblical principles. They learn that faith is not only expressed in church services but also in every aspect of life.
The sports ministry conducted by Nazarene youth in Timor-Leste is a clear example of how youth ministry can be creative and impactful in the community. By reaching young people through their passions, the gospel is proclaimed in a lively and relevant way.
The Timor-Leste invites others to continue innovating in ministry and present Christ to the world in tangible ways.