In keeping with the Biblical lesson about the deeds of the Good Samaritan, the Emmanuel College (EC) Men’s Baseball Team recently served the residents of Franklin County as part of the ‘Diamond’ Lion’s commitment to model the mind-of-Christ. Head Coach Aaron Brister and each of the ‘Diamond’ Lion’s athletes are committed to the two significant Biblical-based people-first initiatives.
First, every member of the ‘Diamond’ Lions’ team is committed to upholding the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Champions of Character initiative. The initiative presents five specific focus statements: Respect; Integrity; Responsibility; Sportsmanship; and Servant Leadership. These focus points are closely aligned to the four stated goals of EC: Christ-centered Individuals to identify the worth of every person; 2) Christ-centered Community to identify the significance of the Body of Christ; 3) Christ-centered Higher Education as the integration of faith and learning; 4) Our Pentecostal / Evangelical traditions to highlight our Christian heritage
Second, every member of the ‘Diamond Lions’ team is steadfast in applying the principles of the Christian Service Program as described in the mandates of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA). A key element of the Christian Service Program is to behave in a manner that promotes the Great Commission; to carry the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the entire world.
Coach Brister encouraged the ‘Diamond Lions’ to take advantage of the needs of many of our local citizens by serving with Members of the Royston United Methodist Church in the operation of their ministry; a mobile food pantry.
During the baseball team’s first service opportunity with the Royston United Methodist Church there were at least 175 families representing over 500 people served.
