A Moment Bigger Than the Game

Dear Eastern Iowa FCA Family,

There is something powerful about competition.

Rival teams stepping onto the court or field, giving their best, representing their schools. It is exciting to watch.

But what happened after a recent matchup between Fairfield and Washington High School in Washington, IA, was even more powerful.

Following a Friday night conference game, FCA student leaders from both schools created space for something bigger than the game itself. They invited athletes, coaches, and members of the community to come together in prayer.

Just one week prior, the Fairfield community experienced the tragic loss of a senior athlete. Washington High School had walked through a similar loss this past fall when a senior football player was killed in a hunting accident.

In the midst of grief, these students chose unity.

Instead of remaining divided as rivals, they came together as brothers and sisters in Christ. They prayed for one another, supported one another, and stood side by side in a moment that reminded everyone what truly matters.

After the games, students gathered. Prayers were lifted. The Gospel was shared. The photos captured from that night reflect these moments of prayer, as students and coaches stood together, lifting one another up before the Lord.

In two different communities, during two incredibly difficult seasons, FCA student leaders and coaches stepped forward to lead. They created space for hope, for healing, and for Jesus to be known.

It is hard to fully put into words how impactful moments like this are.

To witness students lead with courage.

To see communities come together in faith.

To watch God move in the middle of heartbreak.

This is what FCA is all about.

Would you join us in praying?

• For the families, teammates, and communities continuing to grieve these losses
• That students would continue to turn to Jesus in times of both sorrow and celebration
• For FCA leaders to keep boldly creating spaces for unity, prayer, and the Gospel to be shared

Thank you for standing with us and supporting the work God is doing through FCA.