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Using Faith and Focus, BHS Grad Griffith Interns with Fellowship for Christian Athletes in California

By Trina Runner on August 07, 2017 via Connect-Bridgeport.com

Ministries can take many forms.  For Emily Griffith, it takes place on the volleyball court, aligning her commitment to Christ and her passion for the sport.  Having excelled at volleyball throughout her high school career, Griffith now plays for Bethany University, where she is actively involved with the Fellowship for Christian Athletes. 
 
She was first introduced to the organization when she attended a camp in South Carolina when she was younger.  Seeing a group of college-aged athletes so passionate about the sport and about following God impacted Griffith profoundly.  The experience led her to continue … with the group who is based in Huntington Beach, California and when she was old enough to apply for a college internship with them, she jumped at the chance.
“This group has been such an inspiration to me and I couldn’t wait to get involved and learn how increase my faith and improve my game while working with such an amazing outreach mission,” Griffith said.
 
From May 23 till the end of July, the 2016 BHS graduate dedicated her summer to advancing the gospel through the sport of volleyball. 
 
“We live in weekly rhythms that honor time with God, time in the community and time on mission,” said Griffith. “We start the day off with quiet time and prayer, followed by an early morning workout or practice.  Each day, we have activities planned that strengthen our relationship with one another and with God and allow us to learn ways to minister through the sport and to mentor others.”
The internship integrates lessons from community leaders and preparations for running Fellowship of Christian Athletes Volleyball Camps throughout Orange County.  The program also challenges the interns to improve their skills in both sand and indoor volleyball and to develop leadership skills that will serve them in their ministry.
 
Of course, being in California for the summer has also afforded Griffith the opportunity to soak up the sun fully immerse herself in the great outdoors. She has had the opportunity to hike in the mountains at Big Bear, watch professional volleyball tournaments, learn to Irish dance and even skydive, making for an unforgettable first summer of college.
 
“Coaches and athletes have a tremendous influence on those they mentor,” said Griffith.  “This program recognizes that responsibility and teaches us how to impact the world by using strategies displayed by Jesus with his disciples.”
 
 


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